Chuck Liddell vs Rashad Evans Odds, Predictions & Picks
Robert K - September 1st, 2008 .Chuck Liddell takes on the undefeated light heavyweight contender Rashad Evans at UFC 88, we have the latest odds, expert predictions and preview for this vital main event.
Latest Odds: Chuck Liddell -260 (Best line available at BetUS) vs Rashad Evans +225 (Bookmaker)
Before we get started with our predictions a quick reminder about our preferred sportsbooks if you plan to bet on the fights on UFC 88. We recommend going with Bookmaker or BetUS Sportsbook. Both offer some of the best odds available and accept customers from all over the world including the US and Canada. Onto our Liddell vs Evans predictions and betting tips.
Chuck Liddells career looked almost over a year ago. At 38 years of age and having lost twice to then champion Rampage Jackson it looked like his MMA career was coming to an end. On top of it all it would have to come to one of the toughest men in MMA Wanderlei Silva. He needed a redeeming win badly. For one of the few times in his career he was actually an underdog going into fight. The bout turned out to be one of the best of 2007 and most importantly for Chuck Liddell, a vital win.
Outside the cage things have also played out in his favor. Former champion Rampage Jackson lost his title at UFC 86 which leaves a huge door open for Liddell to regain the championship belt. He’ll have to overcome the Ultimate Fighter 2 winner Rashad “Sugar” Evans though to get the opportunity.
Evans holds 13-0-1 professional record and is ten years younger. Some have suggest that he is a tailor made opponent for Liddell more of a stepping stone rather than real test. Liddell has demonstrated a remarkable ability to overcome one-dimensional wrestlers, Evans though could be more than just a one dimensional wrestler. He has improved remarkably since his appearance on the ultimate fighter. He has overcome the likes of Michael Bisping, Brad Imes, Stephan Bonnar and Keith Jardine (Ultimate Fighter 2 semi final) all solid strikers though not remarkable. The key for Evans is his game plan.
This is a 3 round fight which improves Rashad’s chances immensely. The only way he can win is by decision which means he’ll have to avoid Chucks heavy hands for 15 minutes instead of 25. Like Couture and Rampage Jackson have proven before, wrestlers can overcome Liddell if they can engage him in the stand-up for long period of the fight. I tend to agree with the popular opinion that Evans has not yet devolved the stand-up arsenal required to that. However I wouldn’t be surprised if he survives all three rounds but I doubt he can take down the former champion or control him from the top position. Liddell seems is deserving favorite however there still a few question marks hanging over him right that could make Evans a value play.
He is 39 years old, one of the oldest elite level fighters in MMA. His time is running out. He does not have more 3 or 4 more good fights left in him. Other than his win over Wanderlei he does not a single win over any current UFC light heavyweights.
Prediction:
Though we’ve seen vast improvement from Evans since his debut on TUF, he has simply not displayed the striking ability required to beat Liddell. Liddell will be fully motivated. With events having played out as they have this is perhaps his last and best chance to regain his title. Should he win this fight he’ll almost certainly face Forrest Griffin another match-up he’ll feel very comfortable with. Liddell by decision. Best Bet: I’m staying clear of this one but I feel there is small value on the underdog.
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Rashad wins by 2nd round K.O and will face Forrest Griffin for the title according to Dana White.