UFC Vegas 116 DraftKings DFS Overview and Picks
Explore the premier DraftKings MMA DFS selections and strategies for UFC Vegas 116. Enhance your chances of winning with our thorough preview, fighter assessments, and insights.
If you’re looking to capitalize on this event to boost your DFS earnings, DraftKings.com offers a full range of contests, including a $300k MMA Throwdown with a grand prize of $100k. Participants have a budget of $50,000 to choose six fighters, and scoring details can be found at the bottom of the article. Let’s jump into the details…
Main Event – Featherweight
Aljamain Sterling (25-5-0) vs. Youssef Zalal (18-5-1)
DK Salaries: Sterling ($7,800), Zalal ($8,400)
Vegas Odds: Sterling (+120), Zalal (-140)
This main event is a strong matchup, showcasing one of the more underrated pairings the UFC has put together for an Apex card. Sterling moved up to featherweight in April 2024 after a notable bantamweight career, achieving a 2-1 record with decisive wins against Calvin Kattar and Brian Ortega, alongside a close decision loss to Movsar Evloev.
Co-Main Event – Women’s Bantamweight
Norma Dumont (13-2-0) vs. Joselyne Edwards (17-6-0)
DK Salaries: Dumont ($8,800), Edwards ($7,400)
Vegas Odds: Dumont (-230), Edwards (+190)
This fight was initially scheduled with Dumont facing Yana Santos, but she withdrew, leading to Edwards stepping in. Dumont boasts six consecutive victories, yet her competition level raises questions about her readiness for a higher-ranked opponent.
Lightweight Bout
Rafa Garcia (18-4-0) vs. Alexander Hernandez (18-8-0)
DK Salaries: Garcia ($7,700), Hernandez ($8,500)
Vegas Odds: Garcia (+110), Hernandez (-130)
Garcia has been a stable presence in the UFC for over five years and has rebounded well after early setbacks. Hernandez is on a positive streak, having turned his career around with back-to-back victories. This matchup is highly competitive, with both fighters showcasing strong potential.
Bantamweight Clash
Montel Jackson (15-3-0) vs. Raoni Barcelos (21-5-0)
DK Salaries: Jackson ($8,600), Barcelos ($7,600)
Vegas Odds: Jackson (-180), Barcelos (+150)
Jackson’s talent is evident, but his inconsistent fight schedule has hindered his progress. Barcelos, edging closer to 39, has been productive, accumulating victories against notable opponents. I’ll lean towards Barcelos in this bout, given Jackson’s volatility and Barcelos’ activity level.
Final Thoughts
For further insights and to explore DraftKings scoring rules, refer to our available resources. Utilize our tools to maximize your strategic approach when building lineups.
