Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez prediction, pick, start time, odds for UFC 300

Jessica Andrade and Marina Rodriguez meet Saturday on the early preliminary card of UFC 300 from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie analyst Dan Tom.  

Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez UFC 300 preview

Andrade (25-12 MMA, 16-10 UFC) and Rodriguez (17-3-2 MMA, 7-3-2 UFC) will look to stake their claim as the No. 1 contender in the strawweight division. … Andrade has reached the pinnacle of the division and has been on the hunt to reclaim gold. Last November, the former champ stopped Mackenzie Dern in a wild battle at UFC 295 to snap a three-fight skid. … Rodriguez also returned to the win column in her last fight, putting an end to a two-fight setback by stopping Michelle Waterson in Round 2 last September.

Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez expert pick, prediction

Whether you’re looking at age or miles, it can be difficult to tell exactly where Andrade and Rodriguez are at this point in their careers.

Rodriguez feels live as an underdog in this spot considering the hard counters she keeps in tow, but it’s hard to ignore the looming on-paper advantages for Andrade on the floor.

For that reason, I’ll officially side with Andrade for a stoppage by stikes from top position in round 2.

Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez odds

The odds are close in this one as Andrade is a slight -142 favorite and Rodrigeuz a +120 underdog, according to FanDuel.

Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez start time, how to watch

As the prelims opener, Andrade and Rodriguez are expected to make their walk to the octagon shortly after 7 p.m. ET (4 p.m. local time in Las Vegas). The fight streams on ESPN+.

For more detailed analysis from Dan Tom, check out his weekly show, “The Protect Ya’ Neck Podcast.”