Get to know the betting odds, predictions and picks for the upcoming Jhonata Diniz vs. Alvin Hines fight at UFC 3171
Unlike other weight classes where technique often trumps power, the big boys in heavyweight live in a world where one mistake can send you to the shadow realm. The division has produced some of the sport’s most memorable moments in UFC history. This weekend at UFC 317, two heavyweight prospects will step into the octagon with everything to prove and nothing to lose.
Jhonata Diniz, the Brazilian striker looking to bounce back from a tough setback, faces Alvin Hines, an undefeated newcomer making his UFC debut on short notice. Both men carry legitimate knockout power and well-rounded skill sets that suggest this early prelim bout might steal the show from the main card attractions.
Jhonata Diniz enters this fight carrying the mixed emotions that come with heavyweight competition. His 8-1 record tells the story of a prospect who looked destined for big things until reality came knocking. His 6-foot-4 frame and 79.5-inch reach give him natural advantages in most matchups, and his seven knockout victories prove he can end fights when opportunities present themselves.However, his recent defeat against Marcin Tybura raised questions about his ability to handle experienced competition.
Alvin Hines represents the American dream in heavyweight form. The Minnesota native earned his UFC shot the old-fashioned way, compiling a perfect 7-0 record that caught the attention of matchmakers looking for fresh blood in the division. At 6-foot-2 with a 74-inch reach, Hines gives up size to Diniz but makes up for it with raw power and finishing instincts. His background includes solid wrestling fundamentals and elite submission skills.
The betting market has spoken. According to BetMGM, the oddsmakers have installed Jhonata Diniz as a solid -325 favorite. Meanwhile Alvin Hines sits at +260 as the underdog. These odds reflect the bookmakers’ belief that UFC experience trumps regional success, even when that experience includes a recent setback.

The odds for the fight going the distance has also come out. The probability of the fight ending before the final bell is higher and the odds (-380) reflect that. The odds for the fight seeing the judges scorecards stand at +270.
This fight shapes up as a classic striker-versus-grappler scenario with both men capable of ending things dramatically. Diniz’s path to victory runs through his superior striking technique and range advantages. He needs to use his jab effectively, maintain distance, and avoid getting dragged into the kind of chaotic exchanges where Hines thrives.
Hines’ blueprint for success involves pressuring Diniz early and often, looking for takedown opportunities that can lead to his preferred ground-and-pound positions. His wrestling background could prove crucial if Diniz’s takedown defense continues to show cracks under pressure.
If we bet on the fight, we are going against the grain and betting on Alvin Hines to win the fight via KO/TKO.
(All Odds According to BetMGM: BetMGM offers exclusive promo codes, bonus deals and accurate odds for users upon signing up. Use BetMGM to ace your betting game in all sports!)
(Image Credit: Brad Penner – Imagn Images)
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!
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