UFC 197 Jon Jones vs Saint Preux: Odds, Preview and Predictions

Mike Schultz | Updated Apr 20, 2016

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UFC 197 marks the highly anticipated return of Jon Jones (21-1), one of the most dominant fighters in MMA history. He’ll be facing Ovince Saint Preux (19-7), who was a last-minute replacement for Daniel Cormier, who had to bow out due to injury. The main event fight card also features a bout between Demetrious Johnson (22-2-1) and Olympic wrestling gold medalist Henry Cejudo, who has a perfect 10-0 record. Check out all of our UFC 197 betting odds right here.

Event: UFC 197: Jon Jones vs. Ovince Saint Preux Date: Saturday, April 23, 2016, on PPV Location: MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada

Ovince Saint Preux vs. Jon Jones

Jon Jones has been inactive in the Octagon for a while, but he’s still considered one of the best fighters to have ever graced the cage, so even if he’s not firing all cylinders, he should be able to finish Ovince Saint Preux. Saint Preux is extremely strong, however, and if he can take advantage of Jones’ rustiness, he might have a shot to surprise everyone with a KO win. The current odds have Jon Jones as a heavy favorite, but as we’ve seen in the very recent past, the UFC is famous for huge underdog upsets.

Prediction: Jones by KO Current Odds: Ovince Saint Preux +330 Jon Jones -480

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Henry Cejudo vs. Demetrious Johnson

Demetrious Johnson has defeated every flyweight fighter that he’s faced and he has set his sights on Anderson Silva’s all-time title defense record. As the -385 favorite, most are assuming that he’ll get one step closer to that goal with this battle against Henry Cejudo. Cejudo could be one of the more challenging opponents Johnson has faced, and his wrestling skills will come in handy if he can get Demetrious on the ground.

Prediction: Johnson by Decision Current Odds: Henry Cejudo +275 Demetrious Johnson -385

Edson Barboza vs. Anthony Pettis

This fight between two fast, explosive strikers should be a lot of fun to watch. Former lightweight champion Anthony Pettis (18-4) and Edson Barboza (16-4) are both coming off losing streaks, so the chance to redeem themselves, as well as the chance for the winner to get a shot at the title will be what makes this particular battle Fight of the Night material. Pettis is favored to win at -185.

Prediction: Pettis by Decision Current Odds: Edson Barboza +145 Anthony Pettis -185

Rafael Natal vs. Robert Whittaker

The UFC 197 middleweight division fight will pit Robert Whittaker against Rafael Natal. Whittaker is ranked eighth and is on a four-fight winning streak and Natal is ranked twelfth is also on a four consecutive win run. Whittaker will probably make quick work of Natal, using his formidable strength and speed on his feet.

Prediction: Whittaker by KO Current Odds: Rafael Natal +250 Robert Whittaker -365

UFC 197 FOX Sports 1 Prelims

135 lbs.: Chris Kelades vs. Sergio Pettis 170 lbs.: Danny Roberts vs. Dominique Steele 115 lbs.: Juliana Lima vs. Carla Esparza 155 lbs.: Glaico Franca vs. James Vick

UFC 197 Fight Pass Prelims

265 lbs.: Cody East vs. Walt Harris 185 lbs.: Clint Hester vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima 155 lbs.: Efrain Escudero vs. Kevin Lee

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