UFC 102 Betting - Marquardt, Maia and the Future of the Middleweight Division

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Among the big UFC 102 fight card matchups, Nate Marquardt and Demian Maia aren't getting as much hype as Couture/Nogueira and Jardine/Silva. Among layman fans, that is. The die-hard fight fans are most excited about seeing versatile powerhouse Marquardt battle undefeated Jiu-Jitsu master Maia in a high-up-contender match.

Originally, general buzz suggested that the winner of this fight wouldn't get a shot at Anderson Silva's middlweight title and that Dan Henderson would get another crack after beating Rich Franklin and Michael Bisping. However, new rumors are circulating that the No. 1 contender status may change depending on who wins Saturday's fight. Here's a breakdown of what I think could happen.

IF MAIA (+150 underdog) WINS...

Since Maia is (a) undefeated and (b) earning fans in droves thanks to his unparalleled Jiu-Jitsu style, he could very well leapfrog Henderson and get a title shot if he wins. Maia would likely lose to Anderson Silva because of his lack of striking ability. I could then see Dana White making Henderson fight another big contender -- either Yushin Okami, currently the No.2-ranked middleweight in the world, or returning star Vitor Belfort. The winner of that fight would get the winner of Silva/Maia.

IF MARQUARDT (-180 favorite) WINS...

If Marquardt wins, he'll deserve a title shot as much as Henderson does, and most UFC 102 odds bettors would probably agree. Problem: both Marquardt and Henderson have already lost to Silva and would thus be "boring" opponents that wouldn't attract too much fanfare. If Marquardt wins, I could see him having to fight Henderson first. Another "out there" idea; if Marquardt wins and Silva has no choice but to face someone he's already beaten, The Spider would relinquish his belt and let Maquardt/Henderson fight for the title. I'm betting management wouldn't mind seeing that happen.

Sports pick for the Maquardt/Maia fight: Marquardt. He's much stronger and has a huge striking advantage. As good as Maia is on the ground, he'll have a tough time getting the thicker Marquardt to the ground. Maia will experience something new -- getting hit and getting hit hard.
 

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