Apr 15, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Edson Barboza (red gloves) reacts after the fight against Billy Quarantillo (blue gloves) during UFC Fight Night at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

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UFC 319 Prediction and Betting Odds – Edson Barboza vs. Drakkar Klose Preview, Predictions And MMA Betting Odds

In the UFC, every fight matters, and every opportunity counts. When veterans meet hungry contenders, magic often happens inside the octagon. That’s exactly what fans are getting when Edson Barboza squares off against Drakkar Klose at UFC 319.

Both fighters are coming off losses and desperately need a win to stay relevant in the competitive 155 pound division. Barboza, once considered one of the most dangerous strikers in the sport, has faced some tough sledding lately. Klose, meanwhile, has shown flashes of brilliance but needs that signature victory to break into the upper echelon. This matchup at UFC 319 promises fireworks, with two athletes who know their backs are against the wall and have everything to prove.

Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose Preview

Edson Barboza stands 5’11” with a significant 75 inch reach advantage over his opponent. His orthodox stance has served him well throughout a career filled with highlight-reel knockouts. At 39, Barboza might not have the same explosiveness he once possessed, but his technical striking remains world-class. He lands 4.11 significant strikes per minute with 44% accuracy. However, he also absorbs 4.65 strikes per minute. His takedown defense sits at a solid 72%, which will be crucial against Klose’s wrestling heavy approach. Barboza attempts just 0.45 takedowns per 15 minutes, preferring to keep fights standing where his striking can shine.

Drakkar Klose stands at 5’9″ and gives up two inches in height and five inches in reach. His orthodox stance mirrors Barboza’s, setting up what should be a technical striking battle. He lands 4.33 significant strikes per minute with impressive 55% accuracy, showing better efficiency than his opponent. More importantly, he only absorbs 3.54 strikes per minute while defending 50% of incoming attacks. Klose attempts 1.65 takedowns per 15 minutes with 27% accuracy and maintains 69% takedown defense. This grappling threat could be the key to victory.

Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose MMA Betting Odds

According to FanDuel, Edson Barboza is a slight favorite at -132. Meanwhile Drakkar Klose comes back at +112. These odds reflect the respect that Barboza’s striking still commands, even after recent struggles. The relatively close line suggests oddsmakers view this as a competitive fight that could go either way.

The odds for the fight going the distance have also come out. The probability of the fight ending before the final bell is lower and the odds (+112) reflect that. The odds for the fight seeing the judges scorecards stand at -142

Edson Barboza vs Drakkar Klose Predictions And Picks

Barboza needs to use his reach advantage and keep Klose at distance with jabs and leg kicks. His best path to victory involves picking Klose apart from range while defending takedowns. If Barboza can stay patient and technical, his superior striking should carry him to victory.

Klose’s blueprint is more complex but potentially more rewarding. He needs to pressure Barboza, force exchanges in the pocket, and mix in wrestling to disrupt the Brazilian’s rhythm. His superior accuracy and takedown attempts could be the difference-maker if he can avoid Barboza’s power shots early.

If we bet on the fight, we are going against the grain and betting on Drakkar Klose to win via unanimous decision.

(All odds taken from FanDuel. Bet on the most up-to-date MMA odds, lines, and spreads with FanDuel Sportsbook)

(Image Credit: Denny Medley – Imagn Images)

Drakkar Klose

Edson Barboza

UFC 319

Zaid Quraishi

mma

I am a dedicated MMA and Boxing content writer at The Playoffs. I was instantly hooked on MMA after watching the fight between Lyoto Machida vs. Gegard Mousasi back in 2014, and since then, i have been an avid writer with a deep love for the sport and its techniques, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the sport. My favorite aspect of working at The Playoffs is the creative freedom it provides. The diverse range of topics, from listicles and SEO to news articles, keeps me engaged and motivates me to continuously improve my skills! I aim to capture the excitement of the combat sports world in my writing, acting as the middleman between fighters and their die-hard fans. It is kind of like a referee, but with words!