MMA Preview – Max Griffin vs Michael Morales at UFC on ESPN 48
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
MAX GRIFFIN VS MICHAEL MORALES FACTS
When is UFC on ESPN 48? Saturday 1st July, 2023 - 22:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 48? UFC APEX, Enterprise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 48? Click here to buy tickets for UFC Fight Night
What channel is UFC on ESPN 48 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 48? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
MAX GRIFFIN VS MICHAEL MORALES LOWDOWN
Max Griffin (19-9) just about remains relevant in the welterweight division after his split decision win over Tim Means back in October last year. It came in response to being on the receiving end of a vintage Neil Magny (2022) split decision and is now hoping to find his previous form of a three-fight win streak which included two knockouts over Ramiz Brahimaj (2020) and Kenan Song (2021).
Michael Morales (14-0) heads to the APEX to use Griffin as a stepping-stone. We first saw him earn a unanimous decision over Nikolay Veretennikov (2021) on the Contender Series which forced the UFC to make some big plans for him. He has made two UFC appearances since both on pay-per-views cards last year and took his opportunity with both hands by knocking out Trevin Giles and Adam Fugitt.
MAX GRIFFIN VS MICHAEL MORALES PREDICTION
Morales has the makings of a future title contender with a lot more room for growth at just 24 years old. This is a huge test for him taking on the experienced Griffin who is very well-rounded.
Griffin has 13 years on Morales and his experience will be crucial to weathering the early storm, draining the gas tank and finishing stronger. Morales’ endurance is his only question mark and we expect Griffin to incorporate some grappling and pin him up against the fence to run down the clock.
We expect Griffin to give the Ecuadorian his toughest fight, but he is an exceptional grappler himself and he will not give up control easily. He has the ability to create space where he can unleash his striking.
While there is value on Griffin as the underdog, Morales’ speed and power advantage on the feet should pay dividends. A knockout is possible, but Griffin’s durability should drag this to the bell.
Prediction: Morales via Decision
Value bet: Griffin via Decision
