UFC Fight Night returns Saturday with an exciting featherweight main event featuring Arnold Allen taking on Melquizael Costa in a matchup that could have major implications in the division.

Allen enters as the more proven contender with elite striking fundamentals, while Costa brings nonstop pressure, aggression, and finishing ability that makes him dangerous from the opening bell. With several strong betting angles across the card, this event offers plenty of value for UFC bettors.

Below are my top UFC Fight Night predictions and best bets for Saturday night, but don’t forget to head over to check out my UFC DFS picks also UFC DFS Picks & MMA Betting Advice | Fantasy Alarm

UFC Fight Night Predictions & Picks: Saturday, May 16th

Arnold Allen vs. Melquizael Costa — Pick: Arnold Allen Moneyline

Arnold Allen is one of the most technical strikers in the UFC featherweight division, while Costa is more about pressuring and turning the fight into a brawl.  Allen has faced much better competition and has won rounds off of some of the best fighters in the division such as Movsar Evolev and Jean Silva.  While Costa may land more volume, I expect Allen to have the bigger moments and secure the win.

Best Bet: Arnold Allen Moneyline -125
Prop Worth Considering: Allen by Decision +180

 

Nicolle Caliari vs Shauna Bannon — Pick: Nicolle Caliari by KO/Sub

Caliari is one of the rare woman MMA fighters who has a 100% finish rate.  Although she has yet to find a finish in the UFC, on the regional scene she mixed in her striking and submission skills so I don’t want to target an exact method of victory.  Shauna Bannon is can be controlled, and outmuscled so I expect her to be retreating and fighting off of her back for most of the fight.  Bannon has had some flukey wins in the UFC, especially her submission victory over Puja Tomar where she was knocked down by a headkick but reversed the position to get a submission.  I don’t think she will be able to do that to Caliari.

Best Bet: Nicolle Caliara by KO/SUB +350

Alice Ardelean vs Polyana Viana — Alice Ardelean by KO +900

I rarely pick WMMA fighters to win by KO but I think Viana is prime to get KO’d in this spot.  Viana will stay on her back for too long, and is giving up a big physicality disadvantage.  Ardelean has shown on the feet she can land 130+ significant strikes in her last two fights against Monsserat Ruiz and Rayanne dos Santos.  Eventually someone is going to wilt under this pressure, and Viana is a prime target.

Best Bet: Alice Ardelean by KO +900

 

How To Bet On My UFC Picks At DraftKings

When betting UFC, focusing on matchup styles is often more valuable than simply picking the better overall fighter.

Key UFC betting markets include:

  • Moneyline bets 
  • Method of victory props 
  • Round totals 
  • Same Game Parlays 

You can also explore live betting opportunities if Costa starts aggressively in Round 1 but slows as the fight progresses.

Visit DraftKings Sportsbook for updated UFC Fight Night odds and betting markets.

How to Watch UFC Fight Night on Paramount+, Allen vs. Costa Saturday Night

Fans can watch UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Costa live Saturday night through official UFC streaming and broadcast partners.

Start Time: 5:00PM EST
Streaming Network: Paramount+

UFC Fight Night Odds & Score $100 Promo At DraftKings

DraftKings often runs special sportsbook promotions during major UFC events, including:

  • Bet-and-get bonus offers 
  • UFC parlay boosts 
  • Main event profit boosts 
  • Live betting promotions