UFC 258: Viana vs. Martin betting odds, preview, and pick

UFC 258 is fast approaching on Saturday, Feb. 13, and the bantamweight showdown between Polyana Viana and Mallory Martin could be one of the most entertaining fights of the nights.

We have the betting odds and pick you need ahead of the first bell.

Martin looking to sustain her momentum

While neither Martin or Viana will be confused for world beaters, the pairing between these battlers make for an intriguing showdown that’s sure to deliver.

Martin is 4-1 over her last four fights, most recently bouncing back from defeat in her UFC at the expense of Hannah Cifers.

Though Martin is hoping to keep that momentum going, she narrowly avoided calamity against Cifers and wasn’t so lucky against the more experienced Virna Jandiroba.

She’s an active fighter who tends to bully her opponents with strikes, but her defensive lapses against strikes and submissions is holding her back from developing into a better fighter. Martin’s willingness to go for it whenever she sees an opening is entertaining, but also a liability.

Viana must win on the mat

In most circumstances, Martin being a slight favorite would suggest that betting on the underdog, Viana, is a good option. Unfortunately, Viana just ended a three-fight losing streak and hasn’t shown much to suggest she’s being overlooked.

What Viana can do well is work on the mat, and considering Martin’s haphazard approach to her defense, any takedown could potentially end the fight in her favor.

Martin can get overly-aggressive, but Viana’s passive game and lack of toughness is key. If all Martin has to do is avoid takedowns, then she’ll easily mark Viana up, and pick up points. It isn’t outside the realm of possibility for Viana to floor Martin, but she doesn’t have a knack for counter-punching.

Martin will edge Viana by decision

If Martin can show control, and not leave herself open when she’s in the pocket, it’s an easy decision win for her.

Martin will outwork Viana, though there may be a moment or two where it seems Viana is about to turn the tide. She’ll avoid disaster on the mat once again and survive to win a decision.

MMA pick: Martin