TLDR
- The “Go the Distance” prop for O’Malley vs Zahabi is listed at -160, making it a favored betting option
- O’Malley by decision is priced at +100, while his knockout line sits at +185
- Both fighters have proven durable, with Zahabi stopped only once since 2017 and O’Malley going to decisions recently
- Zahabi plans to strike rather than wrestle, setting up an expected technical kickboxing match
- The fight takes place Sunday at UFC Freedom 250 on the White House South Lawn in Washington, D.C.
Sources: Boxing News | UFC Asia | DraftKings Sportsbook | Instagram | UFC Asia | Instagram | Instagram
MMA betting analysts are leaning toward Sean O’Malley and Aiemann Zahabi reaching the judges’ scorecards when they meet Sunday at UFC Freedom 250. The “Go the Distance” prop is being offered at -160, making it one of the favored betting options on the card.
The matchup takes place on the White House South Lawn in Washington, D.C., as part of the UFC’s unprecedented event at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. O’Malley by decision is currently listed at +100, while his knockout line sits at +185.
Fighter Durability Shapes Betting Lines
Both fighters have proven difficult to finish throughout their careers. O’Malley has been stopped twice as a professional, while Zahabi has only been finished once in his entire career.
That lone stoppage came against Ricardo Ramos in 2017 via spinning elbow. Since then, Zahabi has absorbed punishment from top bantamweights without being put away, including surviving a head kick from former featherweight champion Jose Aldo.
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O’Malley’s recent fights support the decision trend. The former bantamweight champion went the distance against Marlon Vera in their rematch and failed to finish Song Yadong at UFC 324.
His knockout rate has dropped as he’s adopted a more measured approach to fights. The 18-3 fighter now relies on controlling distance and technical striking rather than hunting for highlight-reel finishes.
Zahabi Plans Striking Battle
Zahabi has stated publicly that he intends to stand and strike with O’Malley rather than pursue wrestling. This strategic decision sets up what betting analysts expect to be a technical kickboxing match.
O’Malley holds advantages in reach and volume, using his length to control range against opponents. Zahabi is described as a disciplined fighter who understands range management and defensive positioning.
Analysts expect Zahabi to look for counters without taking unnecessary risks. The Canadian fighter is not expected to charge into exchanges hunting for a finish, which could make it harder for O’Malley to land a fight-ending shot.
The main risk remains O’Malley’s precision striking. One clean counter could change the fight instantly, especially if Zahabi becomes overconfident in the pocket.
Zahabi by decision is priced at +500, reflecting his underdog status. The fight is being positioned as a rankings-defining bout for the bantamweight division.
UFC Freedom 250 airs live from the White House South Lawn on Sunday, June 14. Ilia Topuria defends his featherweight title against Justin Gaethje in the main event, with O’Malley vs Zahabi serving as a featured bantamweight attraction on the card.
