UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira is a heavy favorite over challenger Khalil Rountree Jr. in the main event of UFC 307 in Salt Lake City on Oct. 5.

Pereira initially opened as high as a -535 favorite in his third 205-pound title defense, but that line has come down to -455. Rountree Jr. is currently a +350 underdog after opening as high as +400.

Rountree Jr. was something of a surprise choice for this title fight. He was scheduled to take on former champ Jamahal Hill earlier this year but withdrew, citing an accidental violation of the UFC’s anti-doping policy. He received only a short suspension for that misstep and was later slotted into this 205-pound title fight despite having no victories over any fighter currently in the top 10 at light heavyweight.

Pereira has been on a tear since moving up in weight, with four straight wins as a light heavyweight. The last three of those came via TKO, and none lasted beyond the second round.

Rountree Jr. presents an interesting challenge as a fellow striking specialist known for knockout power. He’s also on a four-fight winning streak, but he lacks the technical precision that Pereira honed during his many years as a high-level kickboxer.

Pereira will also have a significant height and reach advantage, which he has put to good use in past matchups against shorter fighters who’ve struggled to close the distance. This will be the champion’s third title defense of 2024, raising some concerns that he might be too active for his own good.

More UFC odds will become available as the fight approaches.

UFC 307 odds and fight card

How to watch UFC 307

• Date: Oct. 5
• Venue: Delta Center, Salt Lake City
• Broadcast: ESPN+ pay-per-view
• Time: 10 p.m. ET

The post UFC 307 Odds: Alex Pereira Sits As Big Favorite Over Khalil Rountree Jr. appeared first on Legal Sports Report.