Jose Aldo vs. Jeremy Stephens is scheduled for six rounds in the welterweight division on the Gamebred Boxing 4 undercard this weekend from the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Aldo’s recent retirement from the UFC is not an indication that his fighting days are over, and he’ll be on his toes against Stephens. Boxing odds favor Aldo at -265, while Stephens is a +200 underdog.
Here are our picks and predictions for Aldo vs. Stephens from Milwaukee.
Jose Aldo vs Jeremy Stephens odds
| Method of victory | Jose Aldo | Jeremy Stephens |
|---|---|---|
| Win outright | -260 | +200 |
| Win by KO/TKO | OTB | OTB |
| Win by points or decision | OTB | OTB |
| Draw | OTB | OTB |
Odds courtesy of DraftKings as of March 29, 2023
Jose Aldo vs Jeremy Stephens betting predictions
Picks made on March 29. Click on each pick to jump to the full analysis.
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Jose Aldo vs Jeremy Stephens betting preview
Jose Aldo may have ended his MMA career, and Stephens is on the outs, but the two have unfinished business. This is one of two MMA rematches being settled in a boxing ring on this card, but unlike Vitor Belfor vs. Ronaldo Souza, these two aren’t that far removed from active competition.
Often regarded as an all-time great at featherweight, Aldo remained a significant contributor as he headed into the twilight of his career. He was a great striker during his time, and it was able to carry him to continued success up until his retirement at the hands of Merab Dvalishvili last August. If anyone should know how good of a striker Aldo is, it’s Stephens, who was blasted out by him in 2016.
Seventeen of Aldo’s 31 professional victories in MMA came by knockout. Last February, Aldo made his professional boxing career and should be razor sharp for his fight with Stephens. He has fast hands, doesn’t neglect the body, and looked comfortable adjusting to the squared circle of boxing.
Stephens won’t be enshrined in the Hall of Fame, but the tough journeyman is not an easy assignment.
After taking too many losses in the UFC, Stephens found mixed success transitioning to PFL. With that avenue not looking to be bountiful, he’ll have to hope victory over former conqueror Aldo can be the start of something new.
Like Aldo, Stephens was a stern striker, scoring 19 knockouts in his 29 professional wins. He also displays a strong chin in that he’s only been stopped three times throughout his long career. That reliability on his chin has made him vulnerable to absorbing shots before, but his pressure style should also translate well in the boxing ring.
In the octagon, Aldo outclassed Stephens and remained a decent fighter in the aftermath. He’ll have to stave off a desperate opponent this time who cannot accept another loss, regardless of the sport.
Jose Aldo vs Jeremy Stephens boxing prediction and best bet
Prediction: Aldo ML
Aldo’s win over Stephens was a direct result of his pinpoint striking. Their fight wasn’t remotely competitive, and a body shot doubled Stephens over and ended the night in the first round. Even though Aldo was no longer a top-tier contender in the end, he was a better fighter than Stephens at his best.
That natural fighting instinct will also show in this boxing-based rematch. Stephens has been a punch-sponge for quite some time. He’s always been tough, but not too dangerous to handle.
Aldo’s recent form in the boxing ring and the UFC makes him the favorite here.
Prediction: Aldo moneyline (-260 at DraftKings)
Best Bet: Aldo ML
With no other lines out right now, we’ll have to stick with Aldo on the moneyline. I wouldn’t be surprised if he stops Stephens again, so keep an eye out for KO props closer to fight night.
Prediction: Aldo moneyline (-260 at DraftKings)
