Two fighters with impressive recent performances collide in the light heavyweight division at UFC 288 in Newark, New Jersey. In a display of his prowess, 32-year-old Devin Clark emerged victorious in two of his last three encounters inside the Octagon. His most recent triumph came early this year when he secured a unanimous decision victory over Da Un Jung during UFC Fight Night 218. On the other hand, the 30-year-old Kennedy Nzechukwu carries the momentum of a remarkable two-fight winning streak from last year into this fight.
MMA: UFC Light Heavyweight
Location: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
Where to watch: ESPN, ESPN+
Date: 7.5.2023, 04:00
Devin Clark
Devin Clark began his professional MMA career in 2013. He gained recognition for his solid wrestling background, which has translated well into his fighting style. The American made his UFC debut in 2016 in the light heavyweight division. Throughout his UFC career, he has faced several notable opponents, including Jan Błachowicz, Aleksandar Rakić, Ryan Spann, and Anthony Smith, among others. Although he has lost to all of them, these matchups have allowed him to test his skills against top-tier fighters in the division. “Brown Bear” has displayed a well-rounded skill set, utilizing his wrestling expertise and striking and grappling techniques.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 33
- Height: 6’ 0”
- Reach: 75”
- Record: 14-7
Kennedy Nzechukwu
The Nigerian fighter moved to the USA in 2010 with his family, and a few years later, he took up mixed martial arts and turned pro. “The African Savage” joined the UFC after winning a contract for the second time of asking via Dana White’s Contender Series. He lost his UFC debut to Paul Craig in 2016. He followed up with three consecutive wins, including Performance of the Night and Fight of the Night bonus awards. Last year he finished Ion Cuțelaba and Karl Roberson, winning via TKO in both cases.
Tale of the Tape
- Age: 30
- Height: 6’ 5”
- Reach: 83”
- Record: 11-3
Betting Odds
Kennedy Nzechukwu is the favorite to win across the sportsbooks. On Coinplay, “The African Savage” is priced at 1.53 odds. To bet on the underdog, pick Devin Clark for 2.62 odds on Bet365. 1.83 odds for over 2.5 rounds looks like a pretty good value pick.