Renato Moicano vs. Tom Nolan: UFC Main Event Betting Preview

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Combat Sports Report

Moicano’s Experience and Grappling Give Him the Edge Against Nolan

Moicano’s comments about wanting to explore his options and become a free agent have added intrigue to the main event. He has been vocal about wanting to make more money, but he also understands that his value will rise if he continues winning.

The matchup is a significant step up in competition for Nolan, who enters on a four-fight winning streak. Moicano is an experienced veteran who has faced some of the best fighters in the world. Although his recent record has not been his strongest, the quality of his opposition must be considered.

Moicano also looked dominant in his last fight. He holds a major grappling advantage in this matchup, along with effective striking and ground-and-pound. Nolan is dangerous and has the power to hurt him, especially because Moicano has been rocked before and his cardio has declined somewhat over the years.

Even so, Moicano has recovered from being hurt and returned to finish opponents. Nolan may need to put him away rather than assume that hurting him will be enough. Moicano will continue fighting, and his experience preparing for and competing in five-round bouts could be important. Nolan has never fought a five-round contest.

The betting market has been competitive. Nolan opened as the favorite at some spots before the odds flipped, and many people still support him. The market could ultimately remain close because of concerns about Moicano’s chin and cardio, as well as Nolan’s power.

The decisive factor may be Nolan’s tendency to give up his back. That is especially dangerous against Moicano, who can take top position, deliver heavy ground-and-pound and secure a choke. Moicano’s durability and experience also remain major strengths, as shown when he accepted the RDA fight on roughly one week’s notice, endured five difficult rounds and never quit.