Askren Vs. Masvidal: Odds, Predictions & Fight Analysis

by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into one of the most unforgettable clashes in UFC history: the showdown between Ben Askren and Jorge Masvidal. This wasn't just a fight; it was a statement, a meme-worthy moment, and a testament to the unpredictable nature of MMA. Today, we're breaking down the fight, the betting odds surrounding it, and the context that made it so epic. Whether you're a seasoned MMA bettor or just a curious fan, there's something here for you.

Background

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage. Ben "Funky" Askren was the highly touted wrestler making his way into the UFC after dominating in Bellator and ONE Championship. Known for his unorthodox style and relentless grappling, Askren was seen as a potential title contender. On the other side, Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal was a veteran of the sport, a street fighter with a wide array of striking skills and a reputation for being one of the toughest guys in the game. Masvidal had been around for years, but this fight would catapult him to superstardom.

The anticipation was palpable. Askren, with his undefeated record, was confident he could take Masvidal down and grind out a victory. Masvidal, ever the cool and collected fighter, promised to bring the heat and test Askren's striking defense. The clash of styles made this a fascinating matchup, and the pre-fight trash talk only added fuel to the fire. The oddsmakers had Askren as a slight favorite, largely due to his wrestling credentials, but many felt Masvidal's striking posed a serious threat. Little did they know, the fight would be over in the blink of an eye.

The Fight

Okay, guys, let's talk about what happened. The fight took place at UFC 239 on July 6, 2019. As the bell rang, Masvidal sprinted across the Octagon and launched a flying knee that connected perfectly with Askren's head. Askren was out cold immediately. The fight lasted a mere five seconds, setting a new record for the fastest knockout in UFC history. It was a stunning finish that sent shockwaves through the MMA world. Masvidal's flying knee became an instant highlight reel and a defining moment of his career. This victory not only elevated Masvidal's status but also served as a harsh introduction to the UFC for Askren.

Betting Odds

Now, let's get into the betting odds. Before the fight, Askren was the favorite, with odds typically around -150 to -170. This meant you would have to bet $150 to $170 to win $100. Masvidal was the underdog, with odds around +120 to +140, meaning a $100 bet would win you $120 to $140. These odds reflected the general expectation that Askren's wrestling would be the deciding factor. However, as we all know, fights don't always go as planned.

The speed and brutality of the knockout made this a costly upset for those who backed Askren. Imagine betting on Askren, confident in his wrestling prowess, only to see your bet evaporate in five seconds! Conversely, those who took a chance on Masvidal were handsomely rewarded. The unexpected nature of the finish highlighted the inherent risk in MMA betting, where anything can happen in a split second. It's a reminder that upsets are always lurking, and sometimes the most unlikely scenarios play out in spectacular fashion.

How the Odds Shifted After

Following the fight, Masvidal's stock skyrocketed, and he became one of the biggest stars in the UFC. His next fights saw him as a much more favored competitor. Askren's loss, on the other hand, significantly impacted his betting odds in subsequent fights. He went on to face Demian Maia, where he was once again the underdog, and ultimately lost via submission. The perception of Askren as an elite fighter was tarnished, and his odds reflected that change.

Predictions

Predicting the outcome of a fight is never an exact science, but let's analyze what factors played into this particular result. Askren's game plan was likely to take Masvidal down and control him on the ground. However, he underestimated Masvidal's explosiveness and striking ability. Masvidal, on the other hand, knew he needed to end the fight quickly before Askren could implement his wrestling. His flying knee was a calculated risk that paid off in a massive way. It's a good example of a fighter understanding their opponent's weaknesses and exploiting them with precision.

Looking back, some analysts suggest that Askren's somewhat predictable style made him vulnerable to a surprise attack. While his wrestling was top-notch, his striking defense was always a question mark. Masvidal's unpredictable and diverse striking arsenal made him a dangerous opponent for anyone, and he proved that in devastating fashion. In the world of MMA, adaptability and the element of surprise can often outweigh pure skill.

Fight Analysis

The Askren vs. Masvidal fight is a classic example of how styles make fights. Askren's wrestling-heavy approach clashed with Masvidal's striking expertise, and the result was a spectacular knockout. Let’s break down the key elements that led to Masvidal's victory:

  • Explosiveness: Masvidal's speed and power were on full display with the flying knee. He covered the distance quickly and landed the strike with devastating accuracy.
  • Timing: The timing of the knee was perfect, catching Askren completely off guard. It was clear Masvidal had trained for this specific scenario.
  • Unpredictability: The flying knee was an unexpected move, especially at the start of the fight. Askren likely anticipated a more conventional striking exchange.

Askren's defeat can be attributed to a few factors:

  • Striking Defense: Askren's striking defense was always a concern, and Masvidal exposed that weakness in a brutal way.
  • Underestimation: Askren may have underestimated Masvidal's striking ability, focusing too much on his own wrestling game plan.
  • Aggression: While aggression can be a positive attribute, Askren's aggressive approach left him vulnerable to a counterattack.

Lessons Learned

So, what can we learn from this fight? For fighters, it's a reminder that you need to be well-rounded and prepared for anything. Relying too heavily on one skill can be a recipe for disaster. For bettors, it's a reminder that MMA is unpredictable, and upsets are always possible. Diversifying your bets and considering all potential outcomes is crucial.

The Aftermath

Following his victory over Askren, Jorge Masvidal went on to have a stellar year. He secured a TKO victory over Nate Diaz to win the BMF title and became one of the biggest stars in the UFC. Masvidal's career reached new heights, and he became a household name in the MMA world.

Ben Askren, on the other hand, faced a setback after the loss. He fought Demian Maia but was submitted. Askren retired from MMA shortly thereafter, citing hip problems as the primary reason. While his UFC career didn't go as planned, Askren remains a respected figure in the wrestling community.

The Askren vs. Masvidal fight will forever be remembered as one of the most shocking and memorable moments in UFC history. It was a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport and a reminder that anything can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether you're a fan of Masvidal, Askren, or just MMA in general, this fight is sure to be a topic of conversation for years to come.

Conclusion

Alright guys, that wraps up our deep dive into the Ben Askren vs. Jorge Masvidal fight. From the betting odds to the fight analysis, we covered it all. This fight was more than just a quick knockout; it was a career-defining moment for Masvidal and a harsh lesson for Askren. It's a reminder of the excitement, unpredictability, and sheer thrill of MMA. Whether you're betting on the fights or just enjoying the spectacle, there's always something new to learn and appreciate in this incredible sport. Keep following for more in-depth fight analysis and betting tips!