UFC FIGHT NIGHT 233 Betting Prediction Anthony Smith vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. 12/9/2023 – The light heavyweights will clash at UFC Fight Night 233 on December 9th, 2023, with Anthony “Lionheart” Smith taking on Khalil “The War Horse” Rountree Jr. This main event from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas features two exciting strikers looking to make a statement and get back into title contention. Smith, a crafty veteran grinding towards another shot at gold, takes on the dangerous Rountree, hungry to break into the top tier of the division. It should make for some explosive exchanges that fans of the top online casino sites would be foolish to miss.
Anthony Smith vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | UFC Apex, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Anthony Smith Analysis
Anthony Smith enters with an impressive 37-18 record and a wealth of experience against elite competition. His 3.16 significant strikes landed per minute display technical boxing fundamentals, with accurate shot selection and combinations. A high striking accuracy of 48% also showcases his pinpoint punches, lethal elbows, and threat from both stances. While takedowns aren’t a major facet of his approach, Smith’s sneaky trips and throws find openings to disrupt opponent’s rhythms. Grappling is used mostly to slow adversary’s advances, with a sturdy 48% takedown defense rate and strong cage wrestling to create scrambles to his feet.
Recently, Smith scored a monumental win over dangerous striker Ryan Spann. He survived early trouble by remaining composed, using footwork to regain space and angle off strikes while returning fire. As Spann slowed, Smith began unleashing punishing combinations, doubling and tripling up on left hooks and crosses. He also mixed in timely takedowns, floating seamlessly between striking and grappling attacks. Showcasing tactical acumen and conditioning, Smith imposed his diverse skill set to take over in the championship rounds. Drawing Spann into scrambles, Smith locked up an opportunistic rear naked choke to emerge victorious.
Khalil Rountree Jr. Analysis
On the other side, Khalil Rountree Jr. brings devastating power and aggression, with a 13-5 record. He lands an astronomical 3.73 significant strikes per minute, overwhelming opponents with pace and pressure. Rountree augments boxing with piston-like left kicks, chopping down on legs to compromise bases and retard mobility. While grappling stats don’t jump off the page, his length and technique combine to stuff 56% of takedowns attempted.
Last time out against Tafon Nchukwi, Rountree delivered a mature, tactical performance. As Nchukwi pressed forward early, Rountree remained patient in his approach. He allowed his opponent to lead exchanges, using a long jab to measure distance safely and pick exact counterpunching moments. As Nchukwi slowed, Rountree unleashed more combinations late, culminating in a clean straight left that flattened his adversary for a violent KO finish. This veteran showing proved Rountree has more tools than just raw power.
Anthony Smith vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Stats
| Smith | Rountree Jr. | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 37-18-0 | 13-5-0 (1 NC) |
| Average Fight Time | 9:55 | 7:37 |
| Height | 6′ 4″ | 6′ 1″ |
| Weight | 205 lbs. | 205 lbs. |
| Reach | 76″ | 76″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.16 | 3.73 |
| Striking Accuracy | 48% | 38% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 4.45 | 4.16 |
| Defense | 46% | 50% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 0.52 | 0.00 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 28% | 0% |
| Takedown Defense | 48% | 56% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.7 | 0.1 |
Anthony Smith vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Betting Pick
This matchup showcases experience versus power. Anthony Smith brings well-rounded skills and resilience, which should provide him with an edge against Rountree’s striking power and aggressive approach. However, Smith may need grappling/submission skills if they take the fight to the ground; on the other hand, Rountree could maintain control of proceedings from his feet, giving him an advantage. After considering statistics and recent performances of both fighters, we choose Anthony Smith with his experience combined with versatile fighting style as our pick in this high stakes light heavyweight bout!
Free Pick: Anthony Smith +190
The light heavyweight clash between Anthony Smith and Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC Fight Night 233 is not just another fight; it’s a testament to the diverse skill sets within the UFC. Smith’s experience, coupled with his tactical acumen, makes him the pick in this bout, as per UFC betting picks. This fight is expected to be a thrilling display of mixed martial arts, offering fans and bettors an unforgettable experience. Both fighters have the capability to secure a victory, but Smith’s adaptability and strategic prowess might ultimately lead him to triumph in this exciting matchup.
