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MMA Odds: Weidman, Gastelum Showdown on Fox

Don Aguero

by Don Aguero in Mixed Martial Arts News

Updated Jul 7, 2020 · 3:27 PM PDT

Weidman's finest moment
By Kevlar (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Chris Weidman (+152) vs. Kelvin Gastelum (-137)

Former champ Chris Weidman (13-3) and Kelvin Gastelum (13-2) are among the top middleweight contenders, but with so much talent in the division, it’s been hard for either to really stand out. They’ll face each other this Saturday (July 22nd) at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York.

Weidman had a successful reign as champion, upsetting Anderson Silva back in 2013 and defending his title three times. However, after losing the title to Luke Rockhold, the former champ has had a terrible time in the octagon. He endured a vicious ground-and-pound against Rockhold; ate one of the most brutal flying knee knockouts against Yoel Romero; and most recently, suffered a bizarre loss to Gegard Mousasi.

Gastelum had a tough time making weight at welterweight in the past, but at middleweight he’s right at home. He’s one of the biggest hitters in the division and boasts an impressive record at 185, beating Uriah Hall, Nate Marquardt, Tim Kennedy, and, most recently, Vitor Belfort. However, his win against Belfort was overruled after he tested positive for marijuana.

Weidman is looking to bounce back after three straight losses and Gastelum is desperate to stand out in a crowded bunch. Another loss for Weidman could mean curtains for the 33-year-old, and a loss for Gastelum would greatly weaken his bid for a shot at the title.

During his heyday, Weidman was one of the best middleweights we’ve seen. But his last few fights showed a greatly diminished fighter. He’s got a weakened chin and has arguably lost some of his drive.

Gastelum is the younger and hungrier fighter. He’s coming off a few big wins and has all the momentum behind him, while Weidman has the hometown advantage. It’s a tough fight to pick, but I’m going to have to side with Gastelum.

Pick: Kelvin Gastelum (-137)

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