UFC Fight Night 267 features an exciting matchup in the featherweight division between Dan Ige and Melquizael Costa. This bout is scheduled for Saturday at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. The prelims start at 5 p.m. ET, followed by the main card at 8 p.m. ET, available for viewing on Paramount+.
Fighter Backgrounds
Dan Ige, with a professional record of 19 wins and 10 losses, has faced recent challenges. He lost to Patricio Pitbull by unanimous decision at UFC 318 last July. In his last four fights, Ige has suffered three defeats, all by unanimous decision. His only victory in this period was a Round 3 KO/TKO against Sean Woodson at UFC 314 in April.
On the other hand, Melquizael Costa boasts a record of 25 wins and 7 losses. He achieved a Round 1 KO/TKO victory over Morgan Charriere in mid-December. Costa is currently on a five-fight win streak, which includes two wins by submission against veterans Andre Fili and Shayilan Nuerdanbieke, and two decisions.
Fight Statistics
- Reach: Both fighters have an even reach of 71 inches.
- Significant Strikes Landed per Minute: Costa leads with 4.42 compared to Ige’s 3.62.
- Strike Accuracy: Costa has an accuracy of 59.66%, while Ige’s accuracy is at 49.56%.
- Takedowns: Costa averages 1.93 takedowns per fight with 38.46% accuracy; Ige averages 0.89 takedowns at 25.81% accuracy.
- Submission Average: Costa shows a 1.16 average, compared to Ige’s 0.22.
Betting Odds and Predictions
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the current odds reflect Costa as the favorite at -225. Ige stands at +185, meaning a $100 bet on Ige would yield $185 if he wins. The fight going the distance has betting options at Yes (-250) and No (+175).
Experts suggest caution when betting on Costa given the risk-to-reward ratio. Integrating Costa into a multi-leg parlay could be wise. Costa’s versatility in winning fights—be it on points, via KO/TKO, or submissions—makes him a formidable opponent.
Recommended Bets
- Costa to win by KO/TKO, DQ, or Submission: +600
- Fight NOT going the distance: +175
- Costa in Round 1: +1200
- Costa in Round 2: +1600
- Costa in Round 3: +2200
The analysis indicates that Costa is likely to finish the fight either in the second or third round. As the matchup approaches, bettors should consider these insights for strategic wagering. Stay tuned for El-Balad’s updates and expert analysis leading up to UFC Fight Night 267.
