UFC Singapore Co-Main Event: Anthony Smith (+110) vs. Ryan Spann (-130)
Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann 8/26/2023 – When Anthony Smith (36-18) engages Ryan Spann (21-8) in a light heavyweight fight, he wants to put an end to the straight losses he absorbed and stop the bleeding. Smith enters UFC Singapore having suffered back-to-back defeats. Just three months prior to losing to Johnny Walker on points, he was knocked out by Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 277. Smith and Spann do not quite know one other. In their last encounter, which took place in the main event of UFC Vegas 37, Smith won by submission after securing a rear-naked choke on Spann. History could repeat itself, but only time will tell.
For the first time in more than six years, Spann hopes to avoid successive defeats. In March, he was unable to defeat Nikita Krylov, giving up after only three minutes and eight seconds to a triangle choke in the first round..
Smith vs Spann II Tale of the Tape
Anthony Smith — Ryan Spann
Record: 36-18 21-8
Height: 6’4” 6’5”
Reach: 76” 79”
Weight: 205 lbs 205 lbs
Age: 35 31
Fighting Stance: Orthodox Orthodox
Knockouts: 20 6
Anticipating an Intense Showdown: Superman Faces a Formidable Challenge
According to odds across various sources, Smith vs. Spann at UFC Singapore is anticipated to be one of the more closely contested matches. At present, BetOnline is placing Ryan “Superman” Spann as the favored contender with -130 odds on the moneyline, indicating an implied win probability of approximately 56.5%.
Spann finds himself striving for consistency in his current career phase. Despite initiating his UFC journey with an impressive streak of 5 wins, the 31-year-old athlete has encountered a more even record of 3 wins and 3 losses in his last six fights.
Within this time frame, Spann has showcased his prowess, securing victories by finishing three opponents (two through KO/TKO and one via submission) and earning the coveted ‘performance of the night’ accolade twice. However, he has also faced setbacks, experiencing losses where he was finished by his opponents. His most recent submission loss to Nikita Krylov in March serves as a notable example.
Lionheart Anthony Smith Faces Uphill Battle in Upcoming Contest
Simultaneously, Smith hasn’t exactly served as the model of consistency. Despite his moniker “Lionheart,” he has encountered challenges in maintaining a string of victories in recent years, tallying a 4-5 record in his last nine bouts, a major factor contributing to his current unranked status.
A promising trajectory emerged when Smith secured three consecutive wins a few years back, with the pinnacle being the previously mentioned triumph over Spann. Regrettably, since that encounter, the 36-year-old seasoned contender hasn’t tasted victory. He faced a defeat at UFC 277 against Magomed Ankalaev (via TKO) followed by a unanimous decision loss to Johnny Walker merely three months ago.
In this bout, Smith finds himself at a physical disadvantage, as Spann stands an inch taller and enjoys a three-inch reach advantage. Although their striking statistics are comparable, Spann possesses an edge in wrestling, averaging more takedowns (1.64 vs. 0.48) and submissions (1.9 vs. 0.7) per 15 minutes, along with a superior takedown accuracy (37% vs. 28%).
UFC Singapore: Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann Betting Trends
With moneyline odds as closely matched as these, making a straightforward selection is entirely viable. However, for those seeking added value, BetOnline offers an array of betting options for Smith vs. Spann that could lead to substantial weekend gains.
For instance, the oddsmakers aren’t projecting a prolonged fight. Notably, BetOnline is leaning towards the UFC Singapore co-main event not going the full distance (-500), and is similarly favoring the under on the 1.5-round total (-180).
In the event of a decisive outcome, Spann holds a favorable position to win by KO/TKO with odds at +185. His record boasts six knockout victories, including a recent triumph over Dominick Reyes at UFC 281.
Should Smith emerge as the one to seal the deal, he’s favored to secure victory either via KO/TKO or submission, with odds set at +390. The parity in odds for both methods isn’t surprising, given his history of 20 knockout wins and an additional 14 victories by submission out of his total of 34 career wins.
UFC Singapore: Smith vs Spann 2 Prediction & Picks
Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann: While Smith enjoyed the upper hand in their initial encounter, the prediction leans towards Spann seeking retribution this upcoming weekend. Spann exhibits a resolute determination to showcase that history won’t repeat itself, and his odds of victory are favorable, especially when considering that he has secured triumphs on two occasions since Smith’s last win.
Furthermore, Support Spann’s potential victory by way of a first-round knockout (+375). Anticipating a fierce offensive from Smith, Spann’s adept striking abilities position him not only to endure the initial onslaught but also to bring about an early conclusion. His proficiency in achieving first-round finishes enhances his advantage, making it likely for him to capitalize on Smith’s vulnerabilities, particularly considering Smith’s experience of being TKO’d just a little over a year ago.
Pick: Spann to win by a first-round knockout.
Anthony Smith vs Ryan Spann Game Information
Location: Singapore Indoor Stadium, Kallang, Singapore
Date: Saturday, August 26, 2023
Main Card: 10:15 PM ET
Prelims: 8:00 PM ET
Watch on: ESPN, ESPN+
Odds: Anthony Smith +100, Ryan Spann -130
