Derrick Lewis vs. Jhonata Diniz: Preview, Where to Watch and Betting Odds

Veteran gatekeeper Derrick Lewis brings his huge frame to UFC Edmonton, where he stands between relative newcomer Jhonata Diniz and the rankings when the two clash in a heavyweight bout on the main card of UFC Fight Night 246. At almost forty years old, Derrick Lewis will expect to win consecutive victories for the first time since February 2021. His Brazilian opponent is unbeaten in MMA and has notched consecutive wins in his first two UFC fights. Jhonata Diniz, a former kickboxer, is a strong favorite among the oddsmakers.

MMA: UFC Heavyweight

Where to Watch: ESPN+

Venue: Rogers Place, Edmonton, Canada

Date: 03.11.2024 04:30

The big fella opened 2024 with a third-round stoppage victory over Rodrigo Nascimento last May to extend his UFC record for most knockout wins to fifteen. At 39, American Derrick Lewis continues to compete even as his performances dived in 2022-2023 with a three-fight losing skid. “The Black Beast” is now 2-1 heading into this fight, having dispatched Marcos Rojerio de Lima and Rodrigo Nascimento in the little run. In between, he lost to Jailton Almeida last November in São Paulo. A veteran of over 41 MMA fights, the former UFC heavyweight title contender, Lewis has also fought in LFA and Bellator FC. He debuted in the UFC in 2014.

• Age: 39
• Height: 6’3”
• Reach: 79”
• Weight: 264lbs (120kg)
• Record: 28-12-1 (NC)

The Brazilian former kickboxing champion debuted in MMA in 2022 and, following an active couple of years, has reeled out eight consecutive victories, going the distance only once. Jhonata Diniz is a black belt in Muay Thai and has a blue in BJJ. He claimed his UFC contract with a TKO of his opponent at DWCS 62 last season and promptly announced himself in the promotion with a knockout debut last April. At 33, Jhonata Diniz has been active following his debut victory with a decision over Karl Williams in August. Already 2-0 in with a performance of the Night on his debut, Diniz has caught the attention of the UFC matchmakers.

• Age: 33
• Height: 6’4”
• Reach: 79.5”
• Weight: 264lbs (120kg)
• Record: 8-0

Derrick Lewis is a 2.40 underdog on Betway. A KO/TKO by Jhonata Diniz is priced at 1.83 odds on Bet365, while Yes to fight going the distance is listed at 4.30.

 1XBET lists over 1.5 at 2.12, with the under available at 1.67. Read more here.