UFC 299 Top Plays

1. Peter Yan

• Matchup Insight: Facing Song Yadong, Yan’s back is against the wall. With a record that’s been less than stellar recently (1-4 in his last five), Yan is in a do-or-die situation. But remember, adversity breeds champions. Yan’s boxing and movement are top-notch, and he’s known for his resilience.
• Why He’s a Top Play: This is a redemption arc waiting to happen. Yan’s experience and skill set make him a dangerous opponent, especially when he’s cornered. Expect him to come out swinging, looking to make a statement. His ability to score significant strikes and potentially secure a finish makes him a valuable DFS asset.

2. Gilbert Burns

• Matchup Insight: Burns is up against Jack Della Maddalena, a rising star with impressive boxing and takedown defense. However, Burns’ high-level jiu-jitsu and powerful striking cannot be overlooked. He’s faced tougher opponents and has shown he can hang with the best.
• Why He’s a Top Play: Burns is a versatile fighter who can earn points through takedowns, control time, and significant strikes. His experience against top-tier competition gives him an edge. If he can bring the fight to the ground, his submission game could be a game-changer for DFS scores.

3. Kevin Holland

• Matchup Insight: Holland’s unorthodox fighting style and knockout power make him a threat to anyone, including his opponent, Michael “Venom” Page. While MVP is making his UFC debut with a lot of hype, Holland’s toughness and ability to land devastating strikes from anywhere make him a wildcard.
• Why He’s a Top Play: Holland’s aggressive approach and knack for finishing fights provide a high ceiling for DFS points. If he can keep the fight standing and utilize his reach, he has the potential to score a knockout, which is always a big win in DFS terms.

4. Dustin Poirier

• Matchup Insight: Facing Benoit Saint Denis, Poirier’s experience and striking prowess are his biggest assets. Despite talks of retirement, Poirier has been at the top for a reason. His boxing and ability to engage in wars make him a fan favorite and a DFS point accumulator.
• Why He’s a Top Play: Poirier’s fights are rarely dull. He lands significant strikes and isn’t afraid to mix it up, which can lead to knockdowns or a finish. His resilience and fight IQ mean he’s likely to score points throughout the fight, making him a solid pick.

5. Sean O’Malley

• Matchup Insight: The rematch with Cheeto Vera is about redemption. O’Malley’s striking, creativity, and range management are key. He’s looking to prove the first loss was a fluke, and his dynamic fighting style is perfect for racking up DFS points.
• Why He’s a Top Play: O’Malley’s ability to land strikes from all angles and his potential for a flashy finish make him a top DFS play. If he can keep the fight at his range and pace, expect him to score heavily with significant strikes and possibly secure a knockout.

Key Takeaways:

• Adversity Breeds Champions: Yan and Poirier are looking to bounce back, making them hungry fighters with something to prove.
• Versatility is Key: Burns’ ability to score in multiple areas makes him a valuable asset.
• Knockout Potential: Holland and O’Malley have the power to end fights abruptly, which is gold in DFS.
• Experience Matters: Facing less experienced opponents, the veterans on this list have the savvy to exploit any weaknesses.

Remember, in DFS, it’s not just about picking winners; it’s about identifying fighters who can score points across the board. These five fighters have the potential to do just that. Good luck, and let’s make some money this weekend at UFC 299!