MMA Preview – Austin Lingo vs Melquizael Costa at UFC on ESPN 49
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
AUSTIN LINGO VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA FACTS
When is UFC Vegas 77? Sunday 16th July, 2023 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Vegas 77? UFC APEX, Enterprise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC Vegas 77? Click here to buy tickets for UFC Fight Night
What channel is UFC Vegas 77 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC Vegas 77? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
AUSTIN LINGO VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA LOWDOWN
Austin Lingo (9-2) recovered after a disappointing UFC debut when he got outpointed by Youssel Zalal (2020). That snapped a seven-fight win streak, but he bounced back with two unanimous decisions of his own over Jacob Kilburn (2021) and Luis Saldana (2021). However, that led him into the path of Nate Landwehr (2023) who submitted in the second round.
He takes on Melquizael Costa (19-6) who also lost his debut. He stepped up to lightweight on short notice to fight Thiago Moises (2023) at UFC 283. It was always going to be a tough ask and he inevitably got submitted in the second round. Now, he has a much better opportunity to display his pedigree.
AUSTIN LINGO VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA PREDICTION
We cannot read much into Costa’s debut and we expect him to give a much better account of himself down at featherweight. He is the favourite and expected to start strong on the feet and mix in his grappling.
Lingo is also well-rounded and will meet fire with fire creating an exciting scrap. He has good takedown defence however we feel Costa’s speed and output will be too much for Lingo as the fight goes on.
We expect a close battle on the feet with Costa’s grappling swaying the judges.
Prediction: Costa via Decision
Value bet: Lingo to win
