Overview
The rematch between Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker is finally here. For UFC betting, this creates an exciting opportunity in a loaded card.
Last Fight Records
Recently, both fighters have done well against some of the best fighters in the middleweight division. Below are the most recent battles to consider for your betting strategies:
Adesanya:
- Win against Marvin Vettori by decision
- Loss to Jan Blachowicz by decision in a light heavyweight title fight
- Win against Paulo Costa by TKO
Whitaker:
- Win against Kelvin Gastelum by decision
- Win against Jared Cannonier by decision
- Win against Darren Till by decision
Fight Details
- Date: Sat, Feb 12, 10:00 PM
- Location: Toyota Center in Houston, TX
Adesanya vs Whittaker Betting Analysis
Israel Adesanya Betting Analysis
“The Last Stylebender” returns to action after a tough decision win against Marcin Vettori. This was not an easy battle, but he was able to pull through the relentless takedowns from Vettori.
This was a much-needed victory, especially after dropping his first loss of his career when jumping to light heavyweight for one battle against Jan Blachowicz. Still, he remains perfect in middleweight battles.
Adesanya is an excellent striker, as he puts up 3.94 significant strikes a minute and only absorbs 2.59. In addition, his 80 percent takedown defense could stand strong here too.
Robert Whittaker Betting Analysis
“The Reaper” put on an absolute beating against Kelvin Gastelum in his unanimous decision win recently. He outstruck him 150 to 62 when looking at significant strikes.
This victory put him at three in a row since his last loss was to Adesanya back in 2019. In addition, he has retained his number one ranking in the middleweight division, just behind current champion Adesanya.
With his 4.68 significant strikes a minute and only taking on 3.34, fans are in for an explosive matchup. The difference could be if he can land takedowns, which he only lands 34 percent of the time.
Fighter Updates
Since this is a rematch, you would assume both parties have grown since they last fought in 2019. For Whittaker’s sake, he needs to be.
According to Adesanya, he has not been impressed with Whittaker’s last few matchups. Then again, Adesanya is on another level and has yet to lose to a fellow middleweight foe.
Israel Adesanya vs Robert Whittaker Betting Preview
Adesanya was a favorite the last time these two met, and it is happening once again. One interesting play is whether or not the fight will go the distance or result in something else.
Whittaker has what it takes to land some takedowns and fight in the ground. However, both fighters are excellent strikers, so this should result in another stand-up battle.
If this matchup does indeed turn into a striking war, the advantage goes to Adesanya. Whittaker has to know this is coming, but he has dealt with a series of strikers all throughout the division.
In fact, these two had a close battle the last time they met. But it happened to go into Adesanya’s favor after he clipped Whittaker just right to seal the early TKO victory.
Israel Adesanya vs Robert Whittaker Betting Prediction
This battle should fall similar to the first time around. It has the potential to go the distance, but it typically goes away once you pair excellent strikers together.
Blachowicz has been the only fighter to succeed in defeating Adesanya. If Whittaker is able to replicate what Blachowicz did, then he has shot.
However, Adesanya has the advantage once again by TKO and the potential to end it before the third round. Look for him to continue the dominance in the division and seek out another competitor.
How to Bet on Israel Adesanya vs Robert Whittaker
The following moneyline has been provided by main sportsbooks. Adesanya is the favorite again:
Adesanya: -280
Whittaker: +225
Another interesting point of view to take here is the over/under for rounds.
Over 4.5: -135
Under 4.5: +135
*odds are subject to changes
If you love sports betting subscribe to our Insiders Betting Digest mailing list and receive free betting picks every week.