On Saturday, May 3, 2025, UFC on ESPN 67 features a welterweight showdown between Santiago Ponzinibbio and Daniel Rodriguez. Both fighters aim to solidify their positions in the division, with the winner of this Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Daniel Rodriguez matchup earning their second win in a row.
Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Daniel Rodriguez Preview
Santiago Ponzinibbio (31-8) enters the octagon with momentum from a third-round TKO victory over Carlston Harris at UFC Fight Night 249 in January 2025. This win ended a two-fight losing streak, including a split decision loss to Muslim Salikhov in July 2024 and a knockout defeat by Kevin Holland in April 2023. Known for his aggressive striking and durability, Ponzinibbio has earned multiple Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night bonuses, highlighting his entertaining fighting style.
Daniel Rodriguez (18-5) rebounded from a two-fight skid with a split decision win over Alex Morono in October 2024. Prior to that, he suffered losses to Kelvin Gastelum and Ian Machado Garry. Rodriguez’s fighting style is characterized by high-volume striking and resilience, making him a challenging opponent for anyone in the welterweight division.
Betting Insights
As of the latest available data from Sportzino, the betting odds for this matchup are:
- Santiago Ponzinibbio: -123
- Daniel Rodriguez: +100
These odds suggest a closely contested fight, with Ponzinibbio as a slight favorite. Bettors should consider the following factors:
- Recent Performance: Ponzinibbio’s recent TKO victory indicates a return to form, while Rodriguez’s split decision win shows resilience but also highlights the competitiveness of his bouts.
- Fighting Style: Ponzinibbio’s aggressive approach may pressure Rodriguez, who relies on volume striking and counterattacks.
- Experience: Ponzinibbio’s extensive UFC experience and history of high-profile fights could provide an edge in handling the bout’s intensity.
Santiago Ponzinibbio vs Daniel Rodriguez Prediction
Santiago Ponzinibbio (-123) over Daniel Rodriguez
220K Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins
- Ponzinibbio is the more explosive striker and that should give him the edge in this matchup.
- Rodriguez has barely scraped by, even in his recent wins, as he hasn’t had better than a split decision victory since 2021.
Analyzing both fighters’ recent performances and styles, this matchup is expected to be competitive. Ponzinibbio’s aggressive striking and experience may give him a slight advantage, especially if he can dictate the pace and control the octagon. Rodriguez’s resilience and volume striking could keep the fight close, but he may struggle to match Ponzinibbio’s power and pressure over three rounds.
Prediction: Santiago Ponzinibbio to win by unanimous decision.
Bettors might find value in wagering on Ponzinibbio to win by decision, considering his ability to control fights and Rodriguez’s durability. However, given the closeness of the odds, it’s advisable to monitor any changes leading up to the fight for potential shifts in value.
