Dana White's Contender Series Season 7 Week 9 Betting Preview: Rodolfo Bellato vs. Murtaza Talha

October 3, 2023

Week 9 of Dana White's Contender Series showcases excellent talent, as fighters are gearing up for an attempt at a UFC contract. The main event is being headlined by light heavyweights Rodolfo Bellato and Murtaza Talha Ali, which sets up great betting opportunities.

Location: UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada

Date: Tuesday, October 03, 2023

Main Card: 8:00 PM ET

Watch on: ESPN+

Rodolfo Bellato Betting Preview

Bellato has been victorious in his last two battles heading into this event. His most recent victory was a unanimous decision against Acacio dos Santosback in May of this year at the Legacy Fighting Alliance 159 event.

He has established 10 wins so far, with five coming by knockout, four by submission, and one by decision. He has eight wins that have resulted in first round finishes, but also has both of his losses coming by knockout.

Both of his knockout defeats have come against Victor Petrino, with his most recent one at DWCS in September of last year. He has battled in the LFA and been successful in four bouts, but this will be another tough test for him.

“Trator” ranks 99^th in the world rankings for best light heavyweight fighter. Assuming he can defend his glass chin, he has a quality shot of winning here.

Murtaza Talha Ali Betting Preview

Ali has won all six of his professional bouts to start his career. His previous success was a first round rear naked choke submission against Kirill Khomitsky back at Brave Combat Federation 35 in September of last year.

Looking at his six wins on his resume, he has them evenly split between knockouts and submissions. Furthermore, he has five out of six wins resulting in first round finishes.

He had put together an impressive amateur run, with 12 wins and went undefeated before turning professional in 2020. He has five wins under his belt at BCF, which were against respectable competitors.

He is currently ranked as the 113^th best light heavyweight fighter in the world. A win here would greatly boost his ranking and earn a valuable contract.

Game Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie has the latest odds showing that Murtaza Talha Ali is a moderate favorite to win this battle. Assuming you select Ali to win, consider adding him to a parlay with other fights on the card to give his payout a boost if he wins.

Rodolfo Bellato: +216

Murtaza Talha Ali: -294

Ballato has put up some quality performances over the years to earn some respect. However, he gets gassed early and that usually opens the door to a knockout defeat. Look for Ali to be in better shape and potentially win by knockout.

Spooky Express Pick: Take Murtaza Talha Ali to Win at -294

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