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By Chris Gawn, MMATorch Betting Champion As is his honor being a defending champ, Chris Gawn breaks down the UFC 96 card, and also makes the bets he hopes will help him retain his title yet again.
Rampage vs Jardine
I like both these guys. Rampage always has exciting fights, and Jardine either wins a tough battle, or gets KTFO. And spectacularly KTFO'd. Each guys strength is the other guys weakness (Jardines leg kicks, and Rampages powerful strikes in close), so this should be a good one. Judging from interviews, Rampage is still embarrassed by his performance against Griffin, and Jardine alternate wins and losses with his last fight being a win. So from that info, I got Rampage by TKO in 3
Gonzaga vs Carwin
This is another good fight, and a possible #1 contenders match. Gonzaga's UFC losses have been to experienced fighters who were able to control where the fight took place. I think Carwins lack of big fight experience will show here. GG will control the fight, striking from outside. GG will eventually tire Carwin out enough where he'll get the takedown, stepping right into his comfort zone. GG by sub in 2
Maynard vs Miller
Miller's got a good all around game, but Maynard is too big and too strong. After a close first round, Miller will tire trying too push around the larger fighter. This is where Maynard will take over and smother his way to a decision victory, like his fight with Clementi.
Hamill vs Munoz
This is probably the first time Hamill faces a guy that can put him on his back. Unfortunately for Munoz, I think Hamill will punish him whenever he tries to. Hamill's striking, while improved, is still sloppy, but is very powerful. Hamill also has the UFC experince, while Munoz is making his debut. This also plays a part. I got Hamill by tko in 3.
Brown vs Sell
I like this fight. Both guys are scrappy fighters, with good all round skills. Browns got better striking, but Sells got the grappling edge. I think Sells size advantage will be the difference. Hes used to getting hit by 185'ers, so he should be able to take Brown's shots long enough to get the fight down. Once there, he'll use his BJJ to get the sub. Sell by sub in 2.
Undercard:
Vera by KO in 2
Grove by dec
Boetsch by Ko in 1
McCrory by sub in 3
Riley by KO in 2
Championship Bets:
$300 on Rampage
$300 on Maynard
$200 on Sell
$200 on Gonzaga
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