UFC 299 Predictions: O’Malley vs. Vera Bantamweight Title Fight – Expert Picks, Odds, and Preview

In a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 299, reigning bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley is gearing up to settle the score with Marlon “Chito” Vera, the only fighter to hand him a loss. O’Malley, confident and riding high after defeating former titleholder Aljamain Sterling, aims to solidify his superstar status by avenging his 2020 defeat to Vera, a fighter known for his toughness and a 32-fight record without a stoppage.

Fight Card and Odds

The fight card is stacked with exciting matchups, including Benoit Saint Denis facing former interim champ Dustin Poirier, Kevin Holland against Michael “Venom” Page, and former champ Petr Yan taking on Song Yadong. The odds are intriguing, with O’Malley listed as a -280 favorite against Vera’s +230.

• Sean O’Malley (c) -280 vs. Marlon Vera +230, bantamweight title
• Benoit Saint Denis -230 vs. Dustin Poirier +190, lightweight
• Kevin Holland -130 vs. Michael Page +110, welterweight
• Jack Della Maddalena -160 vs. Gilbert Burns +135, welterweight
• Petr Yan -115 vs. Song Yadong -105, bantamweight

Expert Predictions

CBS Sports experts, including Brent Brookhouse, Brian Campbell, Shakiel Mahjouri, Michael Mormile, and Brandon Wise, weighed in on the main card matchups.

O’Malley vs. Vera

Brian Campbell emphasizes O’Malley’s growth and confidence after wins over Petr Yan and Aljamain Sterling. Despite Vera’s previous victory, Campbell predicts a more mature O’Malley to secure an easier title defense.

Brent Brookhouse acknowledges Vera’s toughness but expects O’Malley’s superior skills to prevail. He believes O’Malley’s growth and dynamic fighting style will lead to a victory in the rematch.

Shakiel Mahjouri points out Vera’s resilience but highlights O’Malley’s growth and improved performance against top fighters. Mahjouri predicts O’Malley to secure a decision victory with a strategic gameplan.

Poirier vs. Saint Denis

Brian Campbell discusses Poirier’s legendary status but notes the potential challenge in facing the rising star Saint Denis. Brookhouse sees Saint Denis as a poor stylistic matchup for Poirier due to his strong takedown game. Mahjouri predicts Poirier’s experience and tools will guide him to victory if he stays focused.

Holland vs. Page

Brian Campbell previews the UFC debut of Michael “Venom” Page against Kevin Holland. While acknowledging Holland’s slight favoritism, he highlights the unpredictability of Page’s striking. Brent Brookhouse sees Holland as the correct pick due to his well-rounded skills, especially in grappling. Mahjouri favors Holland as the more experienced and well-rounded fighter in this competitive matchup.

In the lead-up to UFC 299, fans and experts alike eagerly anticipate the predictions and outcomes of key matchups, especially the headline bantamweight title fight between Sean O’Malley and Marlon Vera. With the event set to unfold in Miami, the stakes are high, and predictions are buzzing. Stay tuned for live coverage and post-event analysis as UFC 299 promises a night of thrilling action and potential upsets.

In a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 299, reigning bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley is gearing up to settle the score with Marlon “Chito” Vera, the only fighter to hand him a loss. O’Malley, confident and riding high after defeating former titleholder Aljamain Sterling, aims to solidify his superstar status by avenging his 2020 defeat to…