Breaking Down UFC 108's Betting Odds
by Ben Zeidler on December 28, 2009

Rashad Evans (-220) vs. Thiago Silva (+175): This has been hyped up to main event status, but let's be honest: it's no blockbuster. We all saw what Machida did to both these men, so there's no denying that they have holes in their game. However, Rashad is still the more explosive and dangerous fighter. If he's spent his time off wisely, he should smoke Silva. Barring any surprises at the weigh ins (like a flabby Rashad), I like the play here.

Bet 2.2 units to win 1 unit.

Joe Lauzon (-300) vs. Sam Stout (+220): The odds are right on here, which makes it too close to call. You can tell who should win (Lauzon) but those 300s are about as unappetizing as they come. Stout's got nice hands and well, you never know. Get a little play on Stout just in case.

Bet .5 units to win 1.1 units.

Junior Dos Santos (-300) vs. Gilbert Yvel (+220): I love Junior Dos Santos here, but I can't bring myself to drop any serious coin on a 300 unless it's Brock, Fedor, GSP, or Anderson. But unlike the above bet, I don't have any real confidence that lightning could strike for Yvel.

No bet.

Paul Daley (-115) vs. Dustin Hazelett (-115): This is great value on Paul Daley. Yes, Hazelett is a master on the ground, but he's got to get the fight there first. I don't think the slick Daley will let it happen. The UFC is grooming Daley for an eventual title shot and the road goes through Hazelett.

Bet 2.3 units to win 2 units.

Jim Miller (-500) vs. Duane Ludwig (+350): Some guys in my camp train with Jim Miller and they swear by the guy. And at -500, their assessment appears to be dead on. However, I can't take a play that large in good faith. I'm going the opposite way on this one. I don't believe Ludwig will win, but it's not impossible.

Bet .5 units to win 1.75 units.

Cole Miller (-160) vs. Dan Lauzon (+130): The younger Lauzon was thrown into the UFC at a very young age (just 18) and has now improved greatly since that losing debut. I think he's got what it takes to win big here. He's on a hot streak and I don't think that Cole is the guy to slow him down.

Bet 1 unit to win 1.3 units.

Martin Kampmann (-240) vs. Jacob Volkman (+190): Kampmann will never win a title but he is a solid option at 170. He will get back on track here, evidenced by his recent loss and future tomato can opponent. -240 is a steal.

Bet 2.4 units to win 1 unit.

Jake Ellenberger (-140) vs. Mike Pyle (+110): Ellenberger is one of the UFC's best kept secrets. He looked great against Condit in a split decision loss and will rebound here with a big win.

Bet 1.4 units to win 1 unit.

Vladimir Matyushenko (-200) vs. Steve Cantwell (+160): Anyone see these two stand side by side? Matyushenko looks fantastic next to the sloppy Cantwell. And the odds were made before these guys stood toe to toe. I understand that appearances can be deceiving (see: Fedor), but in this example, they correlate.

Bet 1 unit to win .5 units.

Make sure to check back with us the day of the event for free, live, round-by-round coverage of UFC 108 right here at FiveKnuckles.com! Join expert analyst Mike Williams as he takes you through the entire fight card blow-by-blow and then keep it right here for all the post-fight news and notes you can handle!

HOW WILL THE NICK DIAZ VS. CARLOS CONDIT FIGHT END AT UFC 143
Diaz def. Condit via TKO/KO
Diaz def. Condit via submission
Diaz def. Condit via decision
Condit def. Diaz via TKO/KO
Condit def. Diaz via submission
Condit def. Diaz via decision
TAKE ANOTHER POLL!