Adam Williams presents his prediction for the UFC 311 fight.
Kevin Holland
Kevin will throw a lot of focused hooks and uppercuts, aiming to stay at a medium or long distance. He'll frequently threaten with kicks, encouraging Reinier to try and catch them, leaving himself open for a knockout overhand. Holland will attack while moving, unafraid to hit de Ridder even on his guard. If Reinier launches a sharp offensive, the American will land a front kick to the body. Kevin will decide not to stray far from the cage; if he concedes a takedown, he'll immediately start to tie up his opponent.
Reinier de Ridder
Reinier will aim to occupy Holland's attention with long one-twos. Occasionally, he'll clinch the American to land a couple of strikes or initiate a takedown. Kevin will retreat, and de Ridder will follow up with a heavy low kick. He'll risk advancing through Holland's strikes to press him against the cage. While standing, Reinier will look for a submission opportunity, but the opponent will likely defend against the cage. In that case, de Ridder will coax him towards the centre to take him down with a double leg.
Betting Odds
The bookmakers offer close odds, considering Kevin is much more dangerous than de Ridder in the stand-up, but significantly inferior in grappling. The odds on Holland's victory are 1.94. Reinier can quickly submit the American, but if he lingers in the stand-up, he risks being knocked out himself. Bets on de Ridder's victory can be placed at odds of 1.83.
Kevin Holland vs Reinier de Ridder Prediction
Reinier can defend against various attacks in the opening minutes, but it's unlikely to last long. He'll try to secure a takedown quickly or be caught with a knockout punch. Once the fight goes to the ground, it's Holland who will need to defend. Kevin has the skills for both defence and offence on the ground, but it's doubtful he'll cope with such an experienced grappler. We believe the American will seek a knockout from the first seconds, while de Ridder will rush to bring him down to the canvas. We doubt we'll see a second round in this fight, and if it does start, one of the fighters will likely find a finish in the early part of the segment.
