UFC 314 Predictions

UFC 314 is shaping up to be one of the most chaotic, unpredictable cards of the year—and that’s saying something. With Ilia Topuria vacating the featherweight title to test the waters at lightweight, the 145-pound strap is now up for grabs between longtime king Alexander Volkanovski and fan-favorite finisher Diego Lopes. Volk is looking to reclaim what was once his, but Lopes has been on a tear and brings serious momentum into his first UFC title shot. Meanwhile, England’s Paddy Pimblett is somehow the favorite heading into his toughest test to date against the always explosive Michael Chandler—a matchup I think ends with Chandler rag-dolling “The Baddy” in brutal fashion. Bellator legend Patricio Pitbull finally makes his UFC debut, and he’s not easing into things—he’s jumping straight into the fire with Yair Rodriguez. Rounding out the main card, we’ve got two guaranteed wars in Jean Silva vs. Bryce Mitchell and Dominick Reyes vs. Nikita Krylov. Strap in, place your bets, and let’s talk parlays.

Featherweight Championship Bout: Alexander Volkanovski (-130) vs. Diego Lopes (+110)

UFC 314 is stacked from top to bottom, and the main card is nothing short of electric. At the top of the bill, Alexander Volkanovski looks to reclaim his featherweight throne against the surging Diego Lopes. With Ilia Topuria vacating the title and moving up to lightweight, the division has opened up just enough for Volk to storm back in. Expect Lopes to come out swinging—his early-round pressure and slick submissions will keep things dicey. But this is where Volkanovski shines. His championship mettle and relentless pace should take over in the later rounds, grinding Lopes down in a classic Volk comeback. If there’s one fight that screams “Fight of the Night,” this is it.

Prediction: Volkanovski defeats Lopes (U. Decision)

Lightweight Bout: Michael Chandler (+130) vs. Paddy Pimblett (-155)

Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett might be the biggest mismatch on paper—and somehow, Chandler is the underdog. The former Bellator champ is faster, stronger, and far more polished in nearly every department. The only wild card is Chandler’s tendency to overcommit and leave himself open, which could give Paddy a small window for a submission. Still, Chandler’s explosiveness and power should overwhelm Pimblett early. Don’t be surprised if this one mirrors his knockout of Dan Hooker—fast, violent, and decisive. Chandler by first-round KO feels inevitable.

Prediction: Chandler defeats Pimblett (KO/TKO)

Featherweight Bout: Yair Rodriguez (-190) vs. Patricio Pitbull (+160)

In a clash of promotions, Yair Rodriguez welcomes Bellator legend Patricio Pitbull to the UFC—and it’s a rough introduction. Pitbull’s resume speaks for itself, but jumping straight into a fight with a dynamic striker like Yair is a tall order. Rodriguez’s speed, movement, and unorthodox attacks will be the difference over three rounds. Pitbull will keep it competitive, no doubt, but Yair’s volume and pace will shine through. Look for a clear unanimous decision win for the Mexican standout, sending a message about the gap between the UFC and the competition it acquired.

Prediction: Rodriguez defeats Pitbull (U. Decision)

Featherweight Bout: Bryce Mitchell (+200) vs. Jean Silva (-245)

The wildcard bout of the night has to be Bryce Mitchell vs. Jean Silva. Mitchell is unpredictable both in and out of the cage, which makes him hard to bet on—even harder to root for. His grappling is solid, but Silva is on an absolute tear, riding a 12-fight win streak with 11 finishes. The Brazilian's last four fights all ended in knockouts, and he’s showing no signs of slowing down. Silva is dangerous, consistent, and composed—everything Mitchell hasn’t been lately. For that reason, Silva is the lock of the night. Expect another violent finish.

Prediction: Silva defeats Mitchell (KO/TKO)

Light Heavyweight Bout: Dominick Reyes (+150) vs. Nikita Krylov (-180)

Rounding out the main card is a story of redemption versus consistency. Dominick Reyes nearly beat Jon Jones in 2020, then fell off a cliff with three brutal knockout losses. Now riding a two-fight KO win streak, he's starting to look like himself again. But Krylov is no tune-up. He’s a steady, well-rounded threat who doesn’t leave many openings. Reyes may land big early, but over three rounds, Krylov’s pressure and pace should edge it. A unanimous decision win for Krylov seems likely, keeping Reyes honest and halting his comeback momentum—for now.

Prediction: Krylov defeats Reyes (U. Decision)

From title fights to grudge matches to UFC debuts, UFC 314 has something for everyone. Grab your picks, load up those parlays, and get ready—this one’s going to be wild.