UFC Fight Night – Andre Fili vs. Christian Rodriguez: Preview & Betting Tips

Now 35, Fili still has the tools to compete at a high level, but questions about consistency and durability linger. He boasts a sharp kickboxing game, underrated grappling, and nearly a decade of experience inside the Octagon.

While Rodriguez’s talent is clear, especially in his slick grappling and composure, this is a real litmus test to see whether or not he can finally make the step up and beat fringe level opponents.

This is where mentality and experience becomes key because both fighters are coming off losses, which adds another layer to the drama. Fili is the more versatile fighter. He’s long, fights behind a snappy jab, and has solid defensive grappling. He’ll want to keep this fight at range and test Rodriguez’s striking defence, cardio, and ability to adapt over three rounds.

Rodriguez’s best work has come when he can turn fights into chaotic scrambles, dragging opponents to the mat and exploiting openings on the ground. 

Fili vs Rodriguez: Prediction & Betting Tips

For Rodriguez, a win here would mean he shakes off the “prospect killer” label and finally steps into contender territory. Lose, and he’s stuck in that frustrating area of being too good for prospects, but not good enough to test UFC veterans.

But this is a step up in fight IQ and management. If Rodriguez can’t get it to the ground or struggles with range management, it could be a long night, and we could see Fili picking him apart on the feet like a sniper.

Fili is the underdog in this one, but for me, these odds should be more of a 50/50. Stylistically this bout suits the veteran, but two stoppage defeats in his last three could point to a decline as he nears 40.

In this case, I’m willing to pick fight does not go the distance at odds of 2.50.