According to noted oddsmaker Nick Kalikas of BetOnFighting.com, it's none other than former multi-division champion Jake Shields. The Cesar Gracie product is the -180 favorite headed into his UFC Fight Night 25 showdown in New Orleans, Louisiana against Jake Ellenberger on Sept. 17.
"Juggernaut" comes in as the underdog at +150.
Anyone jumping on this line with wallets wide open? Or do you expect a dramatic shift as we get closer and closer to fight night?
Shields was dominant throughout his spectacular run outside the UFC; however, once he made his way to the Octagon, he's seen nothing but hard times, earning a close decision over Martin Kampmann before losing to a one-eyed Georges St. Pierre this past April.
The lines will shift and move as the betting dictates, of course, but the consensus opinion seems to be that they'll hold steady right around where they are now.
Does that make sense to you? Is Shields being underestimated again? Or are his UFC troubles enough to convince you a rising star like Ellenberger has a legitimate shot at the upset?
Despite his propensity for taking difficult tests whenever necessary, Ellenberger, a collegiate champion wrestler, has amassed an impressive 4-1 record in the UFC, with his only defeat coming in his debut.
Even that loss was an extremely close split decision defeat to Carlos Condit, who is currently knocking on the door to a title shot of his own.
A win over former championship challenger Jake Shields would go a long way in putting Ellenberger over the top. But can he do it?
We're still a ways away from fight time, Maniacs, but who do you like for your money and who ya' got straight up?
To see the "Shields vs. Ellenberger" odds and betting lines plus all the action for the upcoming UFC and Strikeforce events click here.
Get the latest gear
