Last week was a difficult week for most DFS players as the Cutelaba vs. Lins fight was canceled after the card had already locked midway through the broadcast. The rest of our player suggestions panned out quite well but it ultimately didn’t matter with a big fat 0 in the lineup.

Onto this week we have a few fun fights to look at for UFC Fight Night: Yusuff vs. Barboza. Below we will talk about a few of the fights that stand out on paper as good DFS targets. As per usual, make sure to check the website on Friday for a more detailed FanDuel player pool.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to tweet @WeWantPicks on Twitter and they will get back to you ASAP.

FIGHT #1 TO TARGET (-150 FDNGTD)

Jonathan Martinez ($16) vs. Adrian Yanez ($15)

Jonathan Martinez is well-known for his diverse skill set, which includes technical striking rooted in Muay Thai. He uses kicks as a strategic tool to control distance, which could be crucial against a boxer like Yanez. Martinez's BJJ skills and takedown defense, which he demonstrated in his recent fight against Said Nurmagomedov, have been added to his arsenal. Adrian Yanez, on the other hand, shines as a striking maestro, his boxing prowess defined by speed, accuracy, and potency. However, his slow start, as evidenced by his fight stats, and his recent KO loss to Rob Font expose flaws.

This match presents a conundrum for FanDuel. Martinez's varied attack, particularly his leg kicks, could present significant difficulties for Yanez. If Martinez incorporates grappling, he may be able to further tilt the odds in his favor. The odds were heavily skewed towards Yanez at -300 at first, but were quickly corrected, reflecting the bout's unpredictability. The main difference between them is their striking styles: Yanez's boxing versus Martinez's varied kick-oriented approach. Concerns about durability loom large for both, with each fighter experiencing moments of vulnerability in recent bouts.

The sharp play might lean towards Yanez. The outcome remains uncertain, with Yanez's boxing offering KO potential and Martinez's well-rounded strategy allowing him to win. One thing is certain, this fight will be explosive.

 

FIGHT #2 TO TARGET (-250 FDNGTD)

Sodiq Yusuff ($21) vs. Edson Barboza ($17)

Sodiq Yusuff and Edson Barboza will square off in a match that could come down to the thin margins of youth versus experience. Yusuff, representing the younger generation, is on the rise, with a 7-1 UFC record and commendable power, speed, and variety of striking. Even when defeated, he has demonstrated his prowess by outstriking formidable opponents. Barboza, on the other hand, is a seasoned combatant known for his flawless movement and striking. Barboza, despite being 37 years old, remains a significant threat with a long history of stunning knockouts and submissions. While he rarely takes fights to the ground, his subtle ground game should not be underestimated.

Many fans and analysts are divided about this main event matchup. Yusuff appears to have multiple paths to victory with his aggressive approach, especially if he decides to engage in grappling. But Barboza offers a tantalizing combination of experience and elite kickboxing. In this competition, age is still a wildcard. Although the odds favor Yusuff, Barboza's knockout potential cannot be overlooked, making this a highly unpredictable fight.

This fight promises to be exciting on paper. While it is tempting to support the experienced Barboza, Yusuff's youth and dynamism add an element of uncertainty. Barboza is my lean here, but keep in mind that anything can happen.

FIGHT #3 TO TARGET (-180 FDNGTD)

Tainara Lisboa ($20) vs. Ravena Oliveira ($9)

Ravena Oliveira, who has a Muay Thai background, is set to make her UFC debut after a seven-fight winning streak. She's known for her forward pressure, leading with punches and teep kicks before pursuing a clinch and potential takedown. Her strategy is heavily based on volume and speed, with pressure being used more than raw power. Tainara Lisboa, fresh off a successful UFC debut, brings her own Muay Thai expertise to the ring. She's a dynamic striker who can clinch and throw wild knee strikes. Her strong takedown defense and ability to switch to submissions if grounded set her apart. Her static head movement, on the other hand, could be a weak link against Oliveira's striking prowess.

Though some consider Ravena to be overrated, the overwhelming 3-1 odds in favor of Lisboa may be exaggerated. Oliveira is a formidable opponent due to her relentless pressure, varied strikes, commendable cardio, and takedown abilities. Given Oliveira's proclivity for clinches, Lisboa's potential ace could be her clinch work. However, Oliveira's intent-filled punches pose a threat in these close quarters, especially when contrasted with Lisboa's stationary head positioning. Although Lisboa is regarded as the more dominant fighter due to her recent UFC appearance, Oliveira's impressive KO/TKO record suggests her untapped potential.

Oddsmakers seem to think Lisboa appears to have the upper hand, both in grappling and striking, despite having only one UFC win against Rose-Clark. Oliveira's record, which includes nearly all KO/TKO finishes, creates an intriguing dynamic. While Lisboa has never been knocked out, her eight-fight record leaves a lot to be desired. Given their finishing abilities, both fighters appear to be viable FanDuel options. 

 

GOOD LUCK THIS WEEKEND

Good look to all heading into this event. If you are watching it at home, follow along with @WeWantPicks on YouTube for live bets on the fight companion. Also, tweet your winning lineups at us and we will do our best to recognize your greatness. 

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