MMA
Maxi Hughes vs Archie Sharp Preview: Odds, Tips, and Predictions
Date: Friday, May 23, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM GMT (Estimated Ringwalk) Venue: Eco-Power Stadium SportsBoom previews the electrifying lightweight clash between Maxi Hughes and Archie Sharp at Eco-Power Stadium on Friday, May 23, 2025. This 10-round bout promises fireworks as both fighters vie for supremacy. For fans eager to explore top MMA betting sites and dive into betting on MMA, visit SportsBoom’s MMA betting guide for expert insights and trusted platforms.
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Maxi Hughes/Getty Images
Maxi Hughes faces Archie Sharp in a highly anticipated lightweight showdown on the undercard of Terri Harper vs Natalie Zimmermann at Eco-Power Stadium. Hughes is coming off a dominant decision win over Gary Cully in December 2024 and aims to solidify his status as a top contender at 135 pounds.
Sharp, on the other hand, is rebounding from his first professional loss to Ryan Garner in July 2024. He steps up to the lightweight division with ambitions of a world title shot. Both fighters are evenly matched, with Hughes holding a slight edge in experience and Sharp boasting a height and knockout advantage. A win could propel either fighter toward a title eliminator, while a loss might stall their momentum in the competitive lightweight division.
Pre-Game Odds and Win Probability: Hughes Slight Favorite
For those seeking the best online betting sites to wager on this bout, check out SportsBoom’s betting guide for top recommendations and insights.
Maxi Hughes: 7/25 (-360) – 78.3%-win probability
Archie Sharp: 5/2 (+250) – 28.6%-win probability .
Draw: 16/1 (+1600) – 5.9%-win probability
Odds courtesy of Betway, subject to change.The pre-match betting odds reflect Hughes’ recent form and experience, which gives him a significant edge in UFC bookmakers’ eyes. However, Sharp’s knockout power and hunger to rebound make him a proper contender on his day.
Sharp’s higher knockout percentage suggests he could end the fight early, but Hughes’ durability and experience in high-stakes bouts make him tough to finish.
Tale of the Tape
| Attribute | Maxi Hughes | Archie Sharp |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 35 | 30 |
| Height | 5’7” (170 cm) | 5’9” (175 cm) |
| Weight | 135 lbs (61.2 kg) | 135 lbs (61.2 kg) |
| Reach | 68” (173 cm) | 70” (178 cm) |
| Record | 28-7-2 (6 KO/TKO) | 25-1-0 (9 KO/TKO) |
| KO/TKO Percentage | 21% | 36% |
| Decisions | 79% | 64% |
| Stance | Southpaw | Orthodox |
Maxi Hughes News
Maxi Hughes enters the fight in top form, having secured a shutout victory over Gary Cully in Monte Carlo in December 2024. The 35-year-old southpaw has no reported injuries and appears fully prepared for this bout. Hughes has expressed confidence, stating he believes he’s “levels above” Sharp, targeting a dominant performance to set up a potential clash with the winner of Shakur Stevenson vs William Zepeda. His recent activity and resilience make him a focal point for UFC betting insights.
Archie Sharp News
Archie Sharp is looking to bounce back from his unanimous decision loss to Ryan Garner in July 2024, which was his first professional defeat. The 30-year-old is transitioning to the lightweight division, a move that could suit his 5’9” frame and 36% knockout rate. No injuries have been reported, and Sharp has voiced his intent to deliver a “dominating performance” to prove his world-class credentials. 18 months adds intrigue for sites for betting on UFC matches.
Suggested Bets
For fans exploring UFC matches betting sites, here are some suggested bets based on the fighters’ profiles and recent performances, available at some of the best betting sites for UFC.
Fight to Go the Distance: Both fighters have high decision rates (Hughes 79%, Sharp 64%), and Hughes’ durability suggests he can withstand Sharp’s power. This makes a full 10-round fight likely. (Forecast odds: 1/3)
Maxi Hughes to Win by Decision: Hughes’ crafty boxing and experience against top-tier opponents like George Kambosos Jr. and Gary Cully make him likely to outpoint Sharp over 10 rounds. (Forecast odds: 4/7).
Value Bets
For those hunting high-odds opportunities on UFC sites for betting, these value bets provide potential for bigger pay-outs.
Archie Sharp to Win by KO/TKO: Sharp’s 36% knockout rate and two-inch height advantage could lead to a stoppage if he catches Hughes off guard. His power makes this a risky but rewarding bet. (Forecast odds: 6/1)
Archie Sharp to Win by Decision: If Sharp can avoid Hughes’ technical boxing, his reach and activity could lead to a points victory, offering excellent value. (Forecast odds: 4/1)
Prediction: Hughes Wins by Decision
Maxi Hughes is set to use his experience and technical prowess to outbox Archie Sharp over 10 rounds. His southpaw stance and ability to control the ring should be enough to see out Sharp’s power, leading to a unanimous decision victory. Sharp’s reach and ambition make him a threat, but Hughes’ recent wins over top opponents like Gary Cully give him the edge. Hughes by decision is a smart pick on UFC matches betting offers.
With a decade of sports writing expertise, Nigel Naicker has crafted compelling content across football leagues like the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, as well as cricket and UFC. A passionate storyteller since 2014, Nigel joins the SportsBoom team, ready to deliver insightful narratives across various sports disciplines.
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