Bellator presents an explosive main event with two of the top featherweight mixed martial artists in the women’s division, Cris Cyborg and Leslie Smith. Defending champion Cris Cyborg is up for a challenge and will be protecting her title in a rematch against Leslie Smith, who is among the top contenders to snatch the title. Cyborg maintains an undefeated record since joining the franchise, while Smith looks to break the streak and wear the belt at the end of the bout.

Bellator 259 features co-headliner fights of former bantamweight champion Darrion Caldwell facing Leandro Higo in a rematch after his hunt for featherweight dominance was stopped by AJ McKee Jr. at Bellator 253. Furthermore, three more fights out the main card add more thrill to the event, so make sure you check out the Bellator odds for said contests.

With that, Nitrobetting news takes a closer look at the event, covering all important details such as fight schedule, fighter information, as well as the latest betting trends, and expert betting predictions. Don’t forget to visit our online Bitcoin sportsbook for MMA odds and lines before the event kicks off!

Bellator 259 Event Info

It's Fight Week!@CrisCyborg defends her belt against @LeslieSmith_GF LIVE on @Showtime!

Get a free 30 day trial at the link below.⬇️
? https://t.co/TbKTQ7Dlk2#Bellator259 pic.twitter.com/fVNALbukOn

— BellatorMMA (@BellatorMMA) May 17, 2021

• When: Friday, May 21, 2021, 9:00 PM ET (Main Card)
• Where: Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, Connecticut/li>
• TV: Showtime
• Live Stream: Bellator Live

READ MORE: Adensaya vs. Vettori UFC 263 Odds and Preview

Bellator 259 Main Card Odds

Chandler vs. Oliveira Preview

Michael Chandler

• MMA Record: 22-5-0

Chandler mostly made a name for himself in Bellator. Before making the transition to UFC, he recorded 10 knockouts and 7 submissions. Three of his five losses came by knockouts. These are exciting times for the fighter as he takes on the challenge of the UFC in this bout.

We anticipate that Chandler will utilize his wrestling skills. He also boasts power punches among his weapons. Chandler has a lengthy background in wrestling, being part of the Big 12 as well as the NCAA’s first division tournament during his college years. This goes well with his unorthodox striking techniques that put lots of pressure on his opponents through forward movements.

Chandler also loves to lure opponents into situations where they’d be in vulnerable to swift counters. Many see this as an unusual counter-punching technique but seems like it works well for Chandler’s needs.

Charles Oliveira

• MMA Record: 30-8-0

It’s been fun watching Oliveira develop into a better fighter. We first witnessed the Brazilian mixed martial artist showcase his skills in the UFC when he was only 20, scoring a submission in the first-round over Darren Elkins.

As of now, Oliveira sits on a 30-8 record, which features eight knockouts and 19 submissions. His eight losses come from a combination of four knockouts and three submissions.

Versatility will be Oliveira’s number one weapon in this fight, combining elite-level submissions and swift strikes coming from different angles when standing. His wrestling skills have vastly improved as well as evident in his fight with Tony Ferguson where he effortlessly took down his opponent three times.

Putting this together with his striking makes him a threat to anyone he faces. He has a fearless way of delivering straightforward strikes and is willing to take a blow or two along the way just to land one.

Chandler vs. Oliveira UFC 262 Betting Trends

• Oliveira won his last three fights with a knockout, submission, and a unanimous decision.
• In Oliveira’s last 10 fights, 2 ended in the third round.
• In Oliveira’s eight-fight win streak, seven came by stoppage.
• Chandler won his last three fights with three knockouts.
• Chandler finished his last 3 fights before the third round.
• Out of 22 wins, Chandler won 5 via decision.

UFC 262 Expert Betting Predictions

The numbers are close, but Oliveira might have a slight advantage on paper. Oliveira prepared for this moment his entire life, while racking up impressive wins along the way. This is his first title shot in his 28th UFC fight, and he steps into the Octagon on an eight-fight winning streak. He has plenty of UFC experience, and we expect to see this as the bell rings.

On the other hand, Chandler is hungry and determined to make a strong impact in the UFC. His three wins in a row give him the confidence in this Oliveira vs Chandler fight. Ultimately, we expect a close fight between the two, with plenty of winning opportunities coming for bettors.

Where to Bet on MMA with Crypto

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This is just one of the many sports betting guides that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more MMA previews and articles, and don’t forget to check out the latest MMA betting odds on our crypto sportsbook.