The 5 best bets for UFC 269

UFC 269 features a lightweight title fight the world has been waiting for, as well as several more intriguing clashes. We want you to be the big winner on fight night, so we've rounded up the five best bets for UFC 269 below.

Sean O’Malley to win in rounds 1-2 (+125)

O’Malley is getting another patsy to boost his record, though this likely may be his last freebie. Raulian Paiva was knocked out by feather-fisted Rogerio Bontorin, and O’Malley won't have any trouble finding his mark with his speedy strikes. That being said, O’Malley’s last two opponents survived his opening blitz, so getting an additional round for O’Malley to close up shop is a solid pick.

Tai Tuivasa moneyline (-112)

The "Showdown at the Last Chance Saloon" between Tai Tuivasa and Augusto Sakai promises to be an entertaining slog, but Tuivasa should be the clear favorite in a fight where the odds are practically even. Tuivasa has won his last three in a row by stoppage, whereas Sakai has been stopped in back-to-back fights where he was severely overmatched.

Santiago Ponzinibbio moneyline (-124)

Geoff Neal is on a two-fight skid and coming off a stint in jail just two weeks ago for a DUI, among other charges. Where his mind and conditioning will be is anyone’s guess, but it makes Ponzinibbio all the more attractive here. While Ponzinibbio can crack, Neal’s chin will do its job and keep him upright, so go with the moneyline.

Amanda Nunes to win by finish (-278)

Nunes is such a big favorite against Julianna Pena that it's hard to find a worthwhile pick for the co-main event. If Nunes’ opponents survive the first round, they at least last an extra round or two before she puts an end to things. Because she’s just as likely to stop Pena as she is to submit her, take Nunes to win by finish at -278.

Dustin Poirier vs. Charles Oliveira, Over 2.5 rounds (+110)

It would be wholly out of character for both Poirier and Oliveira to immediately turn their bout into a phone booth brawl. Poirier is a diligent striker that uses footwork and angles to do his best work, whereas Oliveira is a grinder who is on the hunt for a takedown and submission. Though we expect Poirier to relieve Oliveira of his title, this has the looks of a fight that will be decided in the later rounds.