UFC 302 Betting Prediction: Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa 6/2/2024
In the thrilling world of the UFC, few matchups promise as much intensity and excitement as the upcoming Middleweight bout between Sean Strickland and Paulo Costa at UFC 302. Set for Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, this fight is not just a battle of skill but also a clash of wills between two top-tier fighters. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating this event, searching for free UFC 302 picks to make informed betting choices.
Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa Game Info
| When: | Sunday, June 2, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Prudential Center, Newark, New Jersey, United States |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Sean Strickland Analysis
Sean Strickland who stands at 28-6-0 has kept himself strong, and smart ahead into the octagon. His average fight time stands at 15:12; this is an evidence of his ability to take fights to later rounds, due to his endurance and excellent fight management. In striking, Strickland scores a great 5.41 %, and thus one can clearly observe opponents aggressive offensiveness strategy. However, his defensive stats indicate a definite weakness, as he takes in 4.33 strikes per minute, and the defense rate is relatively satisfactory and stands at 62%. His grappling stats are even lower with an average of 0.85 takedowns in 15 minutes and possesses an accuracy of 64%. Being the recent loser to Du Plessis is very unlucky for Strickland and thus he will try very hard to prove his dominance in the middleweight division making his performance in this match very important for his career.
Paulo Costa Analysis
Paulo “The Eraser” Costa came into this fight with a professional strap of 14-3-0. Known for his explosive power, Costa averages a shorter fight time at 11:09, to blitz his opponents as soon as possible. In striking accuracy, he continues to triumph over Strickland with the figure of 58%, and has slightly superior actual significant strikes per minute at 6.20. However, his striking defense is less edgy and he ducks 6.38 per minute, but a 47% defense. Since grappling is considered as a clinch, takedown attempts from Costa were less frequent with an average of 0.45 for every 15 minutes with a slightly higher accuracy of 75%. While Whittaker was able to defeat Costa in their last fight, the Brazilian has long been known for his powerful strikes and intense attack at the beginning of battles.
Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa Stats
| Strickland | Costa | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 28-6-0 | 14-3-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 15:12 | 11:09 |
| Height | 6′ 1″ | 6′ 1″ |
| Weight | 185 lbs. | 185 lbs. |
| Reach | 76″ | 72″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 5.91 | 6.20 |
| Striking Accuracy | 41% | 58% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 4.33 | 6.38 |
| Defense | 62% | 47% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 0.85 | 0.45 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 64% | 75% |
| Takedown Defense | 77% | 80% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.2 | 0.0 |
Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa Betting Picks
A comparison of the two combatants’s formidability and recent form suggests Strickland is marginally favored in this match-up, besides his advantage in handling longer fights and being less charged offensively and defensively. Also, due to the rationale to the higher activity, the more experienced Strickland may be able to wear the initial burst of Costa and gain the upper hand in the later frames. Nevertheless, one has to be careful with Costa because he is a kickboxer and he has a dangerous finishing instinct that could be lethal if he lands these strikes in the early rounds.
The deciding factor in this particular fight could be defined as Strickland’s defense measures against which Costa is likely to use his attacking punches. It is essential for Bettors to look at certain aspects of Strickland’s endurance and the solidity of Costa in terms of a knockout blow. As usual, this is set to be a good fight, but based on the statistics, Strickland stands a slightly better chance and therefore should be backed.
Free Pick: Sean Strickland -200
As UFC 302 approaches, this bout between Sean Strickland and Paulo Costa is a highlight for fight fans and bettors. With detailed analysis and understanding of their fighting styles and previous performances, bettors can find value in the odds presented. Don’t forget to place your bets at top live betting sites for the best odds and live betting options as this intense fight unfolds.
