Analyzing The UFC Des Moines Fight Card: Predictions And Picks

Aria Freeman

4 min read

Post on May 05, 2025

4.8

Share

Main Event Showdown: Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus du Plessis – A Deep Dive

Robert Whittaker – Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Strengths: Exceptional striking with pinpoint accuracy and devastating power; well-rounded grappling game with strong takedown defense; excellent cardio and fight IQ; experience at the highest level of competition.
• Weaknesses: Can be susceptible to powerful wrestlers who can take him down and control the fight; occasionally hesitant to engage aggressively.
• Examples: Whittaker's wins against Jared Cannonier and Kelvin Gastelum showcase his superior striking and cardio. However, his loss to Israel Adesanya highlighted his vulnerability to superior wrestlers. His fighting style is characterized by calculated precision rather than overwhelming aggression. Using keywords like UFC Des Moines predictions, MMA analysis, Whittaker stats, and Robert Whittaker fighting style helps improve search engine visibility.

Dricus du Plessis – Strengths and Weaknesses:

• Strengths: Powerful wrestler with excellent takedown ability and ground control; aggressive fighting style; improving striking game; strong chin and durability.
• Weaknesses: Striking defense can be exploited by more technically skilled strikers; potential cardio issues in longer fights.
• Examples: Du Plessis's victories are often marked by dominant wrestling performances. His fights against Derek Brunson and Brad Tavares show his improving striking, but also some defensive vulnerabilities on the feet. Utilizing keywords such as UFC Des Moines picks, MMA betting, Du Plessis stats, and Dricus du Plessis fighting style will improve the article's SEO.

Prediction and Pick:

This is a fascinating stylistic clash. Whittaker's superior striking and movement will be crucial. However, du Plessis's wrestling poses a significant threat. If du Plessis can consistently take Whittaker down and control the fight on the mat, he has a good chance of victory. However, we predict Whittaker's superior skill and cardio will allow him to edge out a decision victory. Our pick: Robert Whittaker by unanimous decision. Current betting odds (check reputable sportsbooks for the most up-to-date information) may favor Whittaker, but the potential for an upset is certainly present.

Undercard Gems: Highlighting Key Undercard Fights

Jessica Andrade vs. Erin Blanchfield – Style Matchup and Prediction:

This strawweight clash pits the explosive power of Andrade against the well-rounded game of Blanchfield. Andrade's knockout power is undeniable, but Blanchfield’s superior grappling and cardio could lead to a decision victory. Using keywords such as UFC Des Moines undercard, Andrade vs Blanchfield, striking vs grappling, and upset prediction helps with SEO. Prediction: Erin Blanchfield by unanimous decision.

Yazmin Jauregui vs. Denise Gomes – Style Matchup and Prediction:

A flyweight matchup featuring two exciting young fighters. Jauregui's aggressive style and powerful striking contrast with Gomes's more calculated approach. We predict Jauregui's aggression will overwhelm Gomes, leading to a finish. Keywords like UFC Des Moines preview, Jauregui vs Gomes, fighting styles, and knockout prediction are used here. Prediction: Yazmin Jauregui by TKO in Round 2.

Caio Borralho vs. Anthony Hernandez – Style Matchup and Prediction:

A middleweight battle of contrasting styles. Borralho's well-rounded game and cardio versus Hernandez's power punching and submission skills. Borralho’s consistent pressure and takedowns should prove decisive. Keywords: UFC Des Moines betting tips, Borralho vs Hernandez, grappling vs striking are used here. Prediction: Caio Borralho by unanimous decision.

Potential Upsets and Dark Horses in UFC Des Moines:

While our predictions lean towards the favorites, several fighters could pull off upsets. Denise Gomes, despite being the underdog, possesses the submission skills to catch Jauregui off guard. Keep an eye on any fighters with significant reach advantages or those known for exploiting their opponent’s weaknesses. Using keywords such as UFC Des Moines underdog, upset alert, and MMA surprises keeps the article relevant.

Overall UFC Des Moines Fight Card Analysis and Key Takeaways:

The UFC Des Moines fight card offers a mix of established talent and promising newcomers, making for a compelling event. Many matchups showcase intriguing stylistic clashes, with a potential for both dominant performances and surprising results. The main event promises a high-level battle of skills. The undercard features a number of exciting young fighters looking to make a name for themselves. Keywords used: UFC Des Moines review, fight card analysis, key takeaways.

Conclusion:

The UFC Des Moines fight card promises an exciting night of fights with several intriguing matchups and the potential for surprising results. By carefully analyzing the fighters' strengths and weaknesses, we’ve presented our predictions and picks for the key bouts. Remember, these are just educated guesses; the beauty of MMA lies in its unpredictability. Use our UFC Des Moines predictions and picks to inform your own viewing experience or fantasy league strategies, and enjoy the action! Be sure to check back for our post-fight analysis!