UFC Apex, Las Vegas
Where to watch: ESPN+ , BT Sport
26.2.2023, 5:00
Brazilian heavyweight Augusto Sakai promised fans an improved version of himself as he goes into the octagon against American Don’Tale Mayes in a bout on the main card of UFC Fight Night 220 at the Apex. Augusto Sakai is on a four-match skid against an opponent who is undefeated in three and who has literally turned around his UFC career after a tough start. We preview Augusto Sakai versus Don' Tale Mayes and present expert betting tips.
Claim Your Welcome Bonus!Augusto Sakai
After winning his first four fights in UFC and signing a new contract, the wheels seem to have come off the career of Augusta Sakai. The former Bellator heavyweight who debuted in the UFC in September 2018 has lost four straight fights since his 2020 setback to veteran Alistair Overeem. Most concerning is that the losses have come inside the distance by stoppages. The 31-yea- old is a brown belt in Jiu-jitsu and turned professional in 2011. He has remained confident and says he isn’t feeling any pressure ahead of his bout.
Don’Tale Mayes
31-year-old Don’Tale Mayes is unbeaten in three matches after dropping his UFC debut and sophomore. The American, who started training Judo as a youngster to manage his anger, is a huge specimen at 6’ 6”. Styled “Kong” because of his size, he deployed his advantage to overcome Josh Parisan in his last win through a TKO from the crucifix position using his elbows. Although he lost to newcomer Hamdy Abdelwahab in his last fight in July it was later ruled a no contest after Abdelwahab’s USADA suspension.
| STATS | Augusto Sakai | Don’Tale Mayes |
| AGE | 31 | 31 |
| HEIGHT | 6' 4" | 6' 6" |
| REACH | 77" | 81" |
| UFC RECORD | 4-4 | 2-2-1 |
| STREAK | 0 | 2 |
Expert Betting Tips
The odds have reflected the current status of the fighters: Sakai can’t buy a win and Mayes can’t seem to lose. However, this fight is a step down for Sakai who has competed against the cream in the heavyweight division a la Spivak, Tuivasa, Rozenstruik etc. Yes, he lost to them but he won’t lose to Mayes. Sakai has a solid punch and is the better fighter on the feet. Mayes will try to wrestle and use his size advantage but expect Sakai to easily overcome the American. At these odds, there’s some value to be gotten.
- W1 at 2.02 odds on 1xbet
- W1 by KO, TKO or submission at 2.87 odds on Bet 365
- Bout to be won in rounds 1-2 at 1.73 odds on Coinplay