Julianna Pena is a +540 underdog at Sportsbook as she defends her UFC women's bantamweight title against challenger Kayla Harrison (-770 favorite).
This Pena vs. Harrison co-main event is set for June 7 at UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey. Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and former PFL champion, has quickly climbed the UFC ranks with dominant performances, making her the clear favorite in this matchup.
For more UFC 316 coverage, see our picks for the bantamweight title rematch between Sean O'Malley and Merab Dvalishvili.
Pena vs. Harrison Odds
| Fighter | Odds |
|---|---|
| Julianna Pena | +540 |
| Kayla Harrison | -770 |
Odds as of June 7 at Sportsbook
How To Bet Pena
If you’ve followed Pena’s career, you know she thrives when the odds are stacked against her. She pulled off one of the biggest upsets in UFC history when she submitted Amanda Nunes at UFC 269. Pena’s pressure and scrappiness make her challenging for anyone standing across from her.
That said, she’s a bit outgunned here. Harrison is stronger, more technical, and has the kind of grappling that can shut down Pena’s strengths. Still, Pena’s toughness gives her a chance.
If you’re betting Pena, it’s all about her moneyline at +540. She’s shown she can find a way to win in impossible situations, but it’s definitely a long shot.
How To Bet Harrison
Harrison has performed very well through two UFC fights, and there’s no reason to think this fight will be much different. Her judo is elite, and once she gets on top, it’s game over for most opponents.
Pena is tough as nails and has only been stopped twice in her UFC career. Harrison might dominate this fight, but Pena’s ability to hang in there makes a finish less likely.
Instead of betting Harrison’s moneyline at -770 (no thanks), the play here is Harrison by decision. She can rack up control time, land some ground-and-pound, and cruise to a clear win without burning herself out chasing a finish.
Pena vs. Harrison Betting Pick
This fight feels like Harrison’s all the way. She’s stronger, faster, and more technical, but Pena’s grit will probably keep her in it. A finish seems unlikely given how durable Pena is, so the smart bet is Harrison by decision.
