Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa UFC 271: Betting Data, Odds, and Preview

Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa UFC 271: Betting Data, Odds, and Preview

When: February 12, 10:00 PM EDT

Where: Toyota Center, Houston, TX

The UFC will leave the cozy confines of the UFC Apex this week and head back to Houston for the first time since August for a great night of fights at the Toyota Center. Before a pair of lethal middleweights go at it for the belt in the main event, Houston’s own in Derrick Lewis will take on a heavyweight up and comer in Tai Tuivasa.

In what should be a great night of fights from top to bottom, let’s take a closer look at the co-main event and see where we can find the remaining value. 

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Derrick Lewis (26-8-0)

“The Black Beast” has had quite the last 18 months. Starting in August 2020, Lewis has headlined four straight UFC events, going 3-1 over that span with all three wins coming in the second round or sooner. His one loss was an interim title fight here in Houston in August, a third-round loss to Ciryl Gane to stamp Gane’s status as one of the world’s most dangerous fighters. 

Currently, the #3 ranked heavyweight and the only one to have beaten current champ Francis Ngannou, Lewis is a more well-rounded fighter than many give him credit for. A blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Lewis has a takedown accuracy of 25% and averages .48 takedowns per 15 minutes. His 2.48 strikes absorbed per minute are also amongst the lowest in the division. 

Tai Tuivasa (14-3-0)

Despite seemingly relatively new to the game to many casual fight fans, the rise has been slow and steady for the boisterous Australian. Joining the UFC in 2017, Tuiavasa won three straight before suffering a three-fight losing streak in early 2019 that almost saw the end of his time with the company. After rattling off four straight wins since, including three ending in the first round via KO, Tuiavasa (#11) has parlayed his skill and post-fight antics into a fight against one of the company’s biggest names. 

And the metrics are there. Coming into this one, Tuiavasa lands a staggering 4.63 strikes per minute, 52% of which are significant. It’s also worth noting his 1.39 knockdowns per 15 minutes are good enough for #2 in the division. 

Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa Odds

Lewis opened up the betting action as a -146 favorite and has only seen more love as the week has gone on. Currently as high as -190 at Caesars, the best number currently available is -180 at DraftKings. As for Tuivasa, the +124 underdog to start has seen his odds balloon as high +165 with BetMGM being the best number currently available.

Click here to see the latest betting odds for Derrick Lewis vs Tai Tuivasa

Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa Odds & Public Betting Data

On name recognition and popularity alone, Lewis has drawn the majority of the action from the public and I expect that to continue as the week goes on. I also expect, however, to see some buyback on Tuiavasa from sharp money should it reach +200, as the knockout power is almost irresistible. 

How To Bet On Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa

Now we’ve given you all odds and betting data you need to wager on UFC 271, here are some of the best betting promos available to you.