UFC Vegas 105 might be flying under the radar, but the card is packed with value—especially for bettors. With featherweights Lerone Murphy and Josh Emmett headlining, plus exciting matchups like Joanderson Brito vs. Pat Sabatini and Brad Tavares vs. Gerald Meerschaert, there’s plenty to dig into.
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Here’s my full preview of the top fights—and where I’m putting my money on Saturday night.
Brad Tavares vs. Gerald Meerschaert
Veteran middleweights clash as Brad Tavares (20-11) takes on Gerald Meerschaert (37-18). This is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup.
Tavares is known for his clean kickboxing and elite takedown defense, boasting an 81% defense rate over his UFC career. While he doesn’t have the flashiest highlight reel, he’s hard to finish and knows how to grind out rounds.
Meerschaert brings a completely different threat. With 11 UFC submission wins, he’s one of the most dangerous grapplers in the division’s history. If he can close the distance and get Tavares to the mat, he could steal this one quickly.
Still, if Tavares stays upright, he should control the pace and pick Meerschaert apart over three rounds.
Further reading: Action Network’s analysis on Tavares vs. Meerschaert
Joanderson Brito vs. Pat Sabatini
The co-main event features Joanderson Brito (17-3-1), a wrecking ball of a striker, against grappling ace Pat Sabatini (18-4).
Brito has eight knockouts and fights with controlled chaos. He comes forward fast, throws heavy, and doesn’t let opponents breathe.
Sabatini, on the other hand, is a technician on the ground. With 12 submission wins, he thrives when he gets on top and controls position. But if he can’t survive Brito’s early storm or struggles with the takedown, it could be a short night.
This one comes down to whether Sabatini can get it to the mat—and I’m betting he won’t.
Further reading: Action Network’s prediction for Sabatini vs. Brito
Lerone Murphy vs. Josh Emmett
Featherweight rising star Lerone Murphy (13-0-1) gets his biggest test to date in knockout artist Josh Emmett (19-4). This is a true striker’s duel, but with two very different styles.
Murphy is sharp, patient, and extremely technical. He’s unbeaten for a reason—he knows how to manage range, pick his spots, and avoid damage.
Emmett has thunder in his hands and is always one punch away from a finish. But at 39 years old, with some recent damage taken, this feels like a tough spot against a younger, faster opponent.
Murphy should be able to stay disciplined and pick Emmett apart over five rounds or catch him late.
Further reading: Action Network’s analysis on Emmett vs. Murphy
Best Bet: Murphy + Brito Parlay (-103 at DraftKings)
For UFC Vegas 105, my best bet is a parlay with Lerone Murphy and Joanderson Brito at -103 odds on DraftKings.
Both fighters are peaking at the right time and have clear stylistic advantages. Brito’s aggression and Murphy’s polish make them a perfect pairing for value—and a potential cashout before the main event ends.
Further reading: VSiN’s best bets for UFC Vegas 105
Check back for updated odds and follow me on Instagram @tjpsportsbet for real-time betting insights on fight night.
