YouTube Star vs Former MMA Star Betting Odds: Jake Paul vs Ben Askren Betting Picks & Predictions
One of the most anticipated boxing matches of the season is less than a week away. It’s also one of the most intriguing and head-scratching matchups this year. On April 17th, Youtube star Jake Paul will take on former Olympic wrestler and MMA champion Ben Askren.
Paul comes to the fight with a 2-0 professional boxing record, winning both matches by knockout. Although, some would put a question mark over the qualification of those fights as professional. Still, he beat fellow Youtuber Ali Eson Gib on his debut taking advantage of his edge in athleticism and punching power. In his second fight, he easily handled former NBA star, Nate Robinson. Ben Askren comes with no real boxing experience whatsoever. Still, he has a respectable martial arts career behind him. As a former wrestler, he made a name for himself in MMA as a ground game specialist. The Saturday fight will see him step out of his comfort zone and make his debut in the professional boxing ring.
Jake Paul vs Ben Askren Betting Odds
Surprisingly for some, Youtuber is a favorite over former MMA fighter. The odds on Jake Paul winning are at -170. Ben Askren is priced at +140. This means that you’ll have to bet $170 on Paul to profit $100. On the other hand, wagering $100 on Askren will net a $140 profit. Translated to implied win probability, Paul stands a 62.96% chance to win the fight. Askren’s chances are at 41.67%.
Jake Paul vs Ben Askren Betting Analysis
Although he’s not a popular figure among the traditional boxing fans, Jake Paul definitely has some boxing skills. He’s reported to take his training very seriously and it was obvious in his first two fights. In addition, he’s bigger, stronger, and younger than his opponent. Paul has also, over time, learned to be patient and wait for a chance to throw a clean strike. However, this will be the first time he’s facing an actual fighter. But, Asker will also feel the transition to the boxing ring. In MMA, he’s never been known for his striking ability. In fact, he won 19 fights thanks to his talent on the ground.
Expect him to make the most of the limited clinch time he may have on Saturday. Even though he’s not a boxer, Askren has proven that he can take a punch. He has shown that much in stand-up action against Robbie Lawler and Demian Maia. His strong chin will surely come in handy as he’ll have to survive some big shots from Paul before getting a chance to rough him up in the clinch.
YouTube Star vs Former MMA Star Betting Odds: Jake Paul vs Ben Askren Betting Pick: Ben Askren (+140) Via Decision
Unlike Nate Robinson, Askren is not going to be overwhelmed by a moment. He’s had plenty of big fights, and that experience will come in handy. Besides, as the fight goes on, the conditioning and cardio edge will tilt the fight to his side. Paul can certainly throw a punch, but Askren has been knocked out only once and that was after receiving a flying knee to the head. He’ll look to drag this one as much as possible and take advantage of Paul’s inexperience in long fights.
