Miocic and Cormier (right)

Stipe Miocic’s historic run as the UFC’s heavyweight champion quickly came to an end last summer at the hands of Daniel Cormier, and he’s the underdog heading into their rematch this Saturday at UFC 241. But, will the Ohio star retake the title from “DC” and begin a second run as the champ? And score the upset win?

UFC 226

Before Miocic battled Cormier last July at UFC 226, he had defended the heavyweight title a record three times. That reign, however, quickly came to an end, after Cormier floored Miocic with a thumping right hand out of the clinch. After driving for a rematch for months, Miocic was finally awarded the opportunity, and he’ll face Cormier on August 17th.

The Odds

As the betting lines currently stand, Cormier is the favorite with odds ranging from -139 to -161. Miocic, meanwhile, is the underdog with odds sitting in the +110 to +128 range. While Miocic isn’t a massive underdog, the consensus seems to be that Cormier will hand the former champ a second straight loss.

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Keys to a Miocic Win

Miocic’s clearest path to victory will likely need to see him keeping busy with his jab, keeping Cormier at a distance, and firing in his hard straight right. Miocic has a substantial reach advantage over Cormier of nearly 8 inches, and the latter’s demonstrated many times how dangerous he can be in the clinch. In addition, if Miocic mixes in some takedown attempts, as means to counter Cormier’s pressure, his chances of reclaiming the belt will be that much better.

UFC 241 will take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.