Mousasi vs Edwards Odds Favor Experience

It’s a big fight in Bellator this week and Mousasi vs Edwards odds have Gegard Mousasi favored to be victorious in France.

The 49-8-2 Dutch fighter comes off a rare loss to Johnny Eblen, but Bellator 296 odds look correct in having him favored to beat Fabian Edwards, who is 11-2.

Mousasi Returns After Break

The aging fighter hasn’t fought since June last year, which is an 11-month break, so there are concerns about his fitness.

However, given his experience, it shouldn’t bother him too much, and he needed time to evaluate his career following the loss to Eblen.

Seeking his 50th MMA win, the 37-year-old has beaten the very best in Bellator, including Lyoto Machida and Douglas Lima within the last four years.

That’s a stellar record, which is why Mousasi vs Edwards odds has him as the short favorite in Paris this Friday night.

The latest MMA news reports Edwards stating Mousasi is flat-footed and not better than him at any aspect of fighting.

“He knows that my striking is better than his… I see him as a flat-footed fighter. I’m just saying what I see. He’s flat-footed. I just think I’m better than him, just being honest,” Edwards said.

“His striking’s very basic. It’s very basic and it’s sloppy as well. He does a lot of things that’s technically wrong… If you’re looking at technique for technique, I’m way more technical than him.”

That’s a lot to say about a legend of the sport, so Mousasi could take it personally. Despite his age, he’s still good enough to be near the top of the division, and if it’s a dogfight, you don’t want to bet on anyone else.

Class and experience usually pay off in these fights, and with a potential title shot on the horizon, he will want to make quick work of Edwards.

Edwards Rising the Ranks

The 30-year-old bounced back from consecutive losses with wins over Machida and Charlie Ward, so he can handle top-level fighters.

The Jamaican-born Brit knocked out Machida with elbows and punches before winning by a decision against Ward. However, only four of his 11 wins have come by knockout, and he has yet to go five rounds.

That could be the big difference between him and Mousasi, who has gone five rounds on many occasions. If Edwards doesn’t get the early knockout, his fitness levels could give out in the final two rounds.

Mousasi vs Edwards odds have Edwards at +185, which is a fair line given his lack of experience compared to Mousasi. You could make a case of those odds being value, but he has yet to prove himself on the big stage.

Fighting as the main event at Bellator 296 won’t be easy, so there are things going against the underdog.

“He’s a lot of people’s heroes, but he wasn’t my hero. He’s a great fighter… but I didn’t really pay attention to him that much,” Edwards said. “He’s a good opponent. Gegard’s Gegard, so he’s gonna fight how he fights regardless… But I really do believe I’m just better-skilled in all areas.”

We’re not sure if he believes what he says. However, he has the advantage of youth, and that can go a long way, especially against a fighter who is coming off a loss.

It could pay to watch for any late betting movement. If he attracts late interest, Edwards could be worth a small wager.

Can’t get enough? Here’s more!

• Close Contest Expected with Stots vs Mix Betting Odds
• Favorite Dominates Carmouche vs Bennett Odds
• Golm vs James Betting Odds Preview: Title Eliminators Headline Bellator 293
• Nurmagomedov vs Henderson Odds Preview: Big Names Headline Bellator 292
• Bellator 291 Betting Preview: Ireland Hosts a Hotly Anticipated Rematch