UFC 299 is finally upon us. This card features many highly anticipated bouts with plenty of big names sharing the card. The main event will see Sean O’Malley defending his bantamweight championship in a rematch against Chito Vera. Also featured on the card is UFC veteran Dustin Poirier facing off against rising star Benoit Saint Denis. On top of those two fights to close out the night, we also get to see Michael “Venom” Page make his UFC debut, as well as the return of Petr Yan.

With so many great fights on paper slated for one night, it should shape up to be an exciting card for fight fans and DFS players alike. Let’s take a look at three fights in specific that stand out from a FanDuel daily fantasy sports perspective.

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FIGHT #1 TO TARGET (-1400 FDNGTD)

ROBELIS DESPAIGNE ($21) vs. JOSH PARISIAN ($10)

Robelis Despaigne enters the fight as a heavy favorite, bolstered by his striking prowess and Olympic taekwondo pedigree, posing a significant challenge to Josh Parisian. Despite his lack of knockout power, Parisian is not to be underestimated, given his sixfold MMA experience and notable height advantage. This matchup promises an intriguing dynamic, with Parisian's durability and potential for takedowns playing a key role. Nonetheless, the spotlight shines brightly on Despaigne, indicating a preference for him according to Vegas, albeit with a word of caution for those considering incorporating this bout into a DFS tournament strategy.

Despaigne's brief MMA career, highlighted by his remarkably quick victories, demonstrates his exceptional power and athletic ability, characteristics uncommon in the heavyweight division. His transition from taekwondo to MMA raises concerns about his defensive abilities and ground game, but his overwhelming force remains a legitimate threat. Parisian, on the other hand, brings a relentless pressure fighting style that can maintain a high pace while utilizing volume striking to compensate for his lack of one-punch knockout ability. Despite the loss, his resilience was on display in his most recent bout, demonstrating his toughness and ability to withstand punishment.

This fight has the potential for explosive action, with Despaigne's power and aggressive start pitted against Parisian's experience and volume striking approach, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup. While Despaigne's raw talent and striking force are appealing, the wisdom in mixed martial arts often lies in recognising the value of experience and adaptability, which Parisian possesses in abundance. This fight not only serves as a litmus test for Despaigne's future in the sport, but it also provides an opportunity for Parisian to upset the oddsmakers, making it a must-see for fans and a critical decision point for fantasy lineups.

FIGHT #2 TO TARGET (-450 FDNGTD)

DUSTIN POIRIER ($12) vs. BENOIT SAINT DENIS ($19)

Benoit Saint Denis brings an unusual ferocity to the lightweight division, breaking away from the typical French fighting style that emphasizes patience and distance. His approach is similar to that of Dricus Du Plessis, who employs relentless pressure and prefers aggression to tact. This makes Benoit a thrilling but unpredictable fighter, as his constant forward momentum frequently results in defensive lapses. His upcoming fight against Dustin Poirier, a seasoned warrior with signs of wear from numerous battles and a recent knockout loss to Justin Gaethje, is a classic case of youth versus experience. While Poirier's technical superiority is undeniable, concerns about his durability, particularly after his recent knockout, point to Benoit as the likely winner, though with reservations about taking a side on this outcome.

Dustin Poirier, with his flawless boxing, strategic use of calf kicks, and black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, exemplifies a refined martial artist. Despite a commendable fight record and tactical acumen capable of dismantling Benoit's aggressive style, Poirier's recent performance and KO loss call into question his ability to deal with the younger fighter's power and pressure. Benoit Saint Denis, on the other hand, has demonstrated exceptional ground control and the ability to win through both submissions and striking power. Following a quick knockout victory, Benoit's momentum and relentless style pose a significant threat to Poirier, who must navigate the early storm to capitalize on his experience in the later rounds.

This matchup is enticing for fans and DFS players alike, with a stark contrast in styles and career paths. Poirier, despite being the more experienced and technically skilled fighter, is questioned about his ability to withstand the aggressive onslaught of a younger, hungrier opponent in Benoit Saint Denis. The fight's dynamic suggests that, while Poirier may outmaneuver Benoit with his superior boxing and ground game, Benoit's relentless pressure may prove too much. With both fighters having a lot to prove, this fight promises to be not only exciting, but also a pivotal moment in their careers, making it a must-see for both fans and fantasy lineups.

FIGHT #3 TO TARGET (-200 FDNGTD)

GILBERT BURNS ($13) vs. JACK DELLA MADDALENA ($18)

Gilbert Burns faces rising star Jack Della Maddalena in what looks to be a closely contested fight. Burns, known for his versatile fighting style, has had his moment in the spotlight. Despite concerns about Burns' age, size, and wrestling abilities, the fight odds are close, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the matchup. Maddalena, on the other hand, poses a formidable challenge with his high-volume striking and exceptional jab, making him a risky opponent for Burns.

Burns' transformation from a dominant grappler to a powerful striker demonstrates his versatility in the welterweight division, despite his small stature. His toughness and speed have allowed him to compete with the division's elite, but his recent one-sided loss to Belal Muhammad, in which he sustained a shoulder injury, has raised questions about his current form. Maddalena's striking, which is distinguished by his relentless jab and effective distance management, combined with solid takedown defense, positions him as a significant threat. His recent victory over Kevin Holland demonstrates his potential and resilience, adding an intriguing element to this matchup.

The crux of this fight could very well be in the grappling domain, where Burns could exploit Maddalena's perceived vulnerability. Despite the odds being in Maddalena's favor, Burns' experience and grappling technique could be the key to halting the younger fighter's momentum. The possibility of a finish from either side adds to the excitement, making this fight both a strategic feast for MMA fans and a critical decision point for DFS players. Targeting both fighters appears to be a sound strategy given their high scoring potential, but the preference for Burns as the underdog reflects a belief in his ability to make a comeback, possibly through superior grappling and submission skills.

GOOD LUCK THIS WEEKEND

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Enjoy the event, and make sure to keep it locked on We Want Picks for tons of great MMA content.