Marcus McGhee vs. J.P. Buys: UFC Fight Night Odds, Picks & Predictions (8/12)

The Apex will be the host of UFC Vegas 78, and two mainstays in the promotion will clash in the main event. Vicente Luque and Rafael Dos Anjos are booked for five rounds in the welterweight division. Cub Swanson is also moving up to featherweight to face Hakeem Dawodu in the co-main event. It should be an exciting night of fights that begins at 4 p.m. EDT on ESPN. Here’s a look at Marcus McGhee vs. J.P. Buys.

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UFC Vegas 78 Luque vs Dos Anjos: Marcus McGhee vs. J.P. Buys

2023 total: Down 7.51 units | Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook

Marcus McGhee vs. J.P. Buys

The matchup for McGhee is fantastic. He is facing J.P. Buys, who is on a three-fight losing streak. McGhee is on a three-fight winning streak, including his UFC debut submission victory over Journey Newson. Two of Buys' losses in the UFC came via knockout, with the most recent coming against Cody Durden, who is not known for his power. Buys gets hit too much and does not offer much in return. He lands 1.89 significant strikes per minute at 44% accuracy while absorbing 3.02 significant strikes per minute and only defending 39% of strikes. That is not a good stat against McGhee, who has speed and power in his hands. He lands 3.55 significant strikes per minute while absorbing 1.84 significant strikes per minute, with 71% of strikes defended. He is more technically sound on the feet and will be hard to take down, especially since he will be the bigger man in the cage. McGhee should be able to get the quick finish against the weak-chinned Buys.

Marcus McGhee Money Line (–355)

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