It’s do-or-die for Dan Hardy as he steps into the ring with strike-specialist Chris Lytle.
On Sunday’s main event, Hardy will have to overcome three straight defeats to beat favourite Lytle. Meanwhile, Jim Miller takes on Benson Henderson in a lightweight matchup and Donald Cerrone fights Charles Oliveira. For the best UFC Live odds, bet now with Pinnacle Sports.
UFC Live – Dan Hardy vs. Chris Lytle
It wasn’t that long ago that Dan Hardy was atop the UFC Welterweight division and was challenging champion Georges St-Pierre for his title. Now the Team Rough House striker has suffered three straight losses and needs a win against Chris Lytle at UFC on Versus 5 on August 14th to remain relevant in the division.
After defeats to Carlos Conduit and Anthony Johnson since his title shot, this time Hardy climbs into the Octagon against a type of fighter that should match up with his style. Lytle is a boxer who likes to keep the fight standing – which plays to Hardy’s strengths.
Lytle has always had difficulty against good wrestlers, so Hardy also has the option of gaining points with takedowns when the opportunity presents itself.
Hardy will also note that the boxer hasn’t KO’ed an opponent since back in 2008. As long as Hardy keeps his chin out of danger, his power should be the difference in this fight.
Pinnacle Sports is offering a line on a Hardy upset at 2.000*. A bet on Lytle will pay off at 1.909* – although it will only be profitable if he’s able to strike Hardy without getting on the wrong end of one of the Englishman’s power shots from either hand.
UFC Live - Jim Miller vs Benson Henderson
In a Lightweight matchup, contenders Jim Miller and Benson Henderson are slated as the co-main event.
A win by Miller should solidify a title shot at some point in 2012, while a victory for Henderson will get him back in the title picture following an unimpressive decision win over Mark Bocek in his UFC debut.
Miller could dominate this fight from start to finish as the favourite; Henderson looks too soft for top UFC competition and Miller is going to be a huge step up from Bocek.
Pinnacle Sports has the price on a Miller win at 1.690*, while a Henderson is 2.310*.
Round-Up
The other closely-matched fight on the card will feature kickboxer Donald Cerrone (2.360*) against the highly-touted Charles Oliveira (1.667*). Both are talented strikers, although Oliveira has the bonus of very good jiu-jitsu skills.
The fight could come down to Cerrone’s takedown defense; if he can stay upright, he should be the better fighter when they are standing. If he can’t stuff the takedown, though, it’s likely that Oliveira will force a submission.
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*All odds subject to change
