UFC Fight Night: Expert Predictions and Best Bets for Saturday, May 3
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has been delivering exciting matchups throughout 2025, and this weekend’s Fight Night card in Des Moines, Iowa, promises to be no exception. According to Bettors Insider, there are several intriguing bouts that are worth keeping an eye on.
In the lead-up to the event, Bettors Insider has identified three key fights that could make for great betting opportunities. One of the most highly anticipated matchups features Azamat Bekoev (19-3) taking on Ryan Loder (7-1) in a battle of two young and talented fighters. Bekoev, a -410 favourite, has started his UFC career on a high note, winning by TKO in the first round. However, Bettors Insider notes that Loder, the champion of The Ultimate Fighter, has the skills to keep the fight close.
"I’m excited to see how this one turns out between two guys very young in their UFC careers," Bettors Insider writes. "Each man is just 1-0 in the UFC, but Loder is the champion of The Ultimate Fighter, so he has been in the fans’ eyes for a bit longer. Both of these guys are very solid fighters, but Bekoev is a -410 favourite in this one." Bettors Insider recommends taking Loder +3.5 (+150) as a best bet.
Another highly anticipated matchup pits Reinier de Ridder (19-2) against Bo Nickal (7-0) in a clash of grappling and wrestling styles. According to Bettors Insider, de Ridder, a former double-champ from ONE Championships, has a significant advantage in terms of experience, but Nickal’s wrestling skills could prove to be a game-changer. "It is a little bit wild to me, the odds on this fight," Bettors Insider notes. "Nickal is sitting at -340 as a favourite against a guy who has beaten some very elite fighters." Bettors Insider recommends taking de Ridder +3.5 (+140) as a best bet.
The main event features Cory Sandhagen (17-5) taking on Deiveson Figueiredo (24-4-1) in a battle of two top contenders in the Bantamweight division. According to Bettors Insider, Sandhagen is a huge favourite, currently sitting at -550, but Figueiredo, a former champion, has the skills to pull off an upset. "Sandhagen has been a top contender in the Bantamweight division for years now but has yet to get a title shot," Bettors Insider writes. "Figgy was the Champion at Flyweight back in 2023, but has since moved up to Bantamweight, where he took out some top guys." Bettors Insider recommends taking Sandhagen to win by KO/TKO (+330) as a best bet.
In conclusion, Bettors Insider has provided expert analysis and best bets for this weekend’s UFC Fight Night event. With a range of exciting matchups and betting opportunities, fans and bettors alike are in for a thrilling night of action.
The expert predictions and best bets provided by Bettors Insider are based on careful analysis of the fighters’ skills, styles, and past performances. As reported by Bettors Insider, the recommended bets include:
- Ryan Loder +3.5 (+150)
- Reinier de Ridder +3.5 (+140)
- Cory Sandhagen to win by KO/TKO (+330)
These expert predictions and best bets are designed to provide valuable insights and guidance for fans and bettors looking to make informed decisions about their wagers. By following the analysis and recommendations provided by Bettors Insider, bettors can increase their chances of making successful wagers and enjoying a thrilling night of UFC action.
