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UFC 260 is upon us, and the card is stacked with UFC talent throughout. One of the fights that's anticipated for an electrifying finish is Sean O'Malley vs Thomas Almeida. In this post, we'll make our Sean O'Malley Thomas-Almeida prediction using UFC 260 odds.
Both fighters are coming off a loss in their last bouts, which means each will be looking to get back on track. Neither fighter is ranked within the top 15 of the Bantamweight division, however, the winner will make a case to crack the rankings.
“Sugar” Sean O'Malley is known in the UFC world as a knockout artist. Holding a professional record of 12-1, O'Malley has made a name for himself in MMA. After losing his first loss to Marlon Vera last year, this is O'Malley's first fight back since then. We'll see how he bounces back from a loss, as he continues his journey to the Bantamweight belt.
Thomas Almeida is another fighter known for his knockout power. He started his UFC career off to a hot start after winning five of his first six fights once joining the prestigious organization. However, he hasn't received a victory since 2016 and is currently on a three-fight losing streak. This is a “do or die” moment for Almeida, as another loss could be detrimental to his career.
Let’s take a look at the sportsbooks to see what the odds are to this highly anticipated matchup on Saturday night.
UFC 260: O'Malley-Aleida Odds
Sean O'Malley (-330)
Thomas Almeida (+270)
Over 1.5 rounds (-135)
Under 1.5 rounds (+105)
How Sean O'Malley Wins the Fight
O'Malley's nickname is “Sugar” for a reason. His fighting style is sweet as he moves fluently around the Octagon. He's also a precise puncher, as he lands 58% of his punches so far in his career. He tends to keep his distance and strike like a sniper, which is why he has won 12 of his 13 career fights. Expect to see a more focused version of O'Malley in this bout, as he'll want to redeem the loss he suffered last August.
This matchup with Almeida is right in O'Malley's wheelhouse. He has the height and reach advantage, which will allow him to keep his distance and pick apart his opponent on Saturday night. His best weapon in this fight will be his mind, as O'Malley will want to be patient and not tire himself out quickly. Look for “Sugar” to frustrate his opponent with a strong jab, then open up his arsenal once Almeida makes a mistake.
How Thomas Almeida Wins the Fight
Thomas Almeida is in a must-win situation for his career right now. Losing a fourth straight fight could mean Almeida finds his way out of the UFC sooner, rather than later. He's facing a tough opponent, but the Brazillian fighter has as good a chance as any to win this bout and further his career in the UFC. He likes to keep it on the feet as four of his wins in the UFC have come by knockout.
Being shorter than O'Malley, Almeida's game plan will be simple, break his opponent's defense and get inside. He'll want to work the body and use leg kicks to take away O'Malley's lead foot. The leg kicks are going to be crucial for Almeida, as it'll make O'Malley's fight stance uncomfortable in the cage. Once he does that, working the body and fighting in close proximity will be how Almeida walks away victoriously.
UFC 260 odds, Sean O'Malley Thomas-Almeida Prediction: Sean O'Malley wins by Knockout in the First Round.
