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UFC 318 – Marvin Vettori vs. Brendan Allen: Preview & Betting Tips

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | By Jake Staniland | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 10:16 AM ET

When Marvin Vettori and Brendan Allen were originally slated to headline UFC Fight Night 240 in April 2024, fans expected a brawl between two top level middleweights.

But with Vettori forced out due to injury, tensions between the two only escalated and resulted in punches being thrown at the Hard Rock Live in Florida when they met at the PFL Playoffs in 2024. That rivalry finally boils over this weekend at UFC 318.

Vettori (19-8-1) is taking this fight so soon after the tragic death of his brother earlier this year, but reports suggest the Italian middleweight is channeling that grief into training and will fight in honour of his brother. Vettori is physically and mentally tough having never been finished in the UFC, and he remains one of the division’s most frustrating puzzles.

Allen (24-7) looked like a dark horse title contender heading into 2024 but has since stumbled badly, dropping back-to-back fights. This is his first real skid since joining the UFC, and he needs a win to get back on track. Fortunately for Allen, UFC 318 takes place in his home state, and that could play a role.

Tale of the Tape

Marvin Vettori – Odds 3.05 (Bet MGM)

Record: 19-8-1

Age: 31

Height: 6ft

Reach: 74”

Weight: Middleweight

Stance: Southpaw

Brendan Allen – Odds 1.38 (Bet MGM)

Record: 24-7

Age: 29

Height: 6ft2

Reach: 75”

Weight: Middleweight

Stance: Orthodox

Marvin Vettori vs Brendan Allen: Analysis

Vettori is known for his durability, cardio, and pressure-heavy style, and as mentioned earlier, he’s never been finished in the UFC, which is some feat considering some of the high level strikers he’s faced. Even if Allen gets early success, Vettori’s ability to walk through fire and make it a war could be the difference.

Allen has never lacked grit or finishing ability, especially on the mat, and if he can force this fight to the ground, he could get Vettori in trouble. The issue is, the Italian is such a compact fighter that he’s difficult to hurt or even take down. On top of that, his chin and cardio are top notch.

This one should be an absolute banger though due to the recent beef they’ve had with each other. And with the emotions running high outside of the feud, I think both men will leave everything in the cage on Saturday night.

Vettori vs Allen: Prediction & Betting Tips

This is a must-win fight for both men, albeit for different reasons. Allen needs to stop the bleeding and avoid a three-fight skid. Meanwhile, Vettori is fighting through tragedy and motivated by something much deeper than the sport.

The bookies are favouring the American in this one, probably due to his finishing ability, but Vettori is definitely a live dog. I expect a high-paced scrap, fueled by emotion. Allen will have his moments early, but Vettori’s experience, cardio, and pressure might just see him stop a two-fight losing streak for himself.

I’m going with the underdog in this one. Marvin Vettori moneyline at odds of 3.05.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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