UFC 328: Van vs. Taira Preview, Odds, Predictions (May 9)
- Van vs. Taira odds favor the challenger at -195.
- This is a battle between a striker and a grappler.
- Fun fact: This is the first UFC title fight between two participants born after the year 2000.
The UFC flyweight title is at stake at UFC 328, where the reigning champion Joshua Van clashes with Tatsuro Taira.
More UFC previews and picks are available here.
How to Watch
- When: Saturday, May 9, 9 pm ET
- Where: Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey
- How to Watch: Paramount+
Van vs. Taira Odds
Van vs. Taira Preview
Van (16-2, 8 KOs) is one of the most attractive fighters in the UFC. His punching volume is unmatched in the division and maybe the organization. So far he has 16 wins with two losses.
He took the title against Alexandre Pantoja due to the rival’s bizarre injury, which was his 6th in a row. During that span, Van beat Brandon Royval, the only guy who defeated Taira in the UFC.
Taira (18-1, 6 KOs) is a relentless wrestler and grappler who grinds his rivals by pure power and either submits or demolishes them via ground and pound. So far, Taira has recorded 14 finishes.
The way he rolled over Brandon Moreno at UFC 323 was impressive, and this guy indicated that he might be the next best thing in the UFC. As stated, the sole loss came to Rovyal, which was a split decision.
Van vs. Taira Predictions
Van is our pick, and here is why. His movement is something Taira didn’t encounter in the past. Yes, Taira’s takedown attempts are devastating and something Van probably never faced, but will the Japanese fighter manage to catch the champion? Now, that’s where we believe that Van makes a difference. He’s fast, very light, and dangerous on his feet, faster than Taira. This is a risky pick, but we will take it.
- UFC 328 picks: Van
