UFC 298: Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry predictions, odds and how to watch

Geoff Neal is set to return to the octagon and face Ian Machado Garry in a highly anticipated matchup on UFC 298. The two fighters have a history, dating back to last summer when Garry wore a T-shirt with Neal's mugshot from a previous DUI arrest ahead of their scheduled fight at UFC 292. Unfortunately, Neal had to withdraw from the fight due to an undisclosed health issue.

Neal's last fight was in March 2023, where he lost to Shavkat Rakhmonov in a late submission at UFC 285. Now, Neal aims to redeem himself by defeating Garry and get back in the welterweight title conversation.

Garry is currently holding an unbeaten record and he intends to keep it that way after his recent triumph against Neil Magny in August 2023. For 2024, Neal is on the list of fighters Garry intends to defeat, followed by Colby Covington and Sean Strickland.

UFC 298: Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry predictions

CBS Sports: Total rounds: Under 2.5 rounds 

Staff writes: "For the sake of different angles to explore, we're taking the under here. In 28 combined career victories, Neal and Garry have a total of nine decision wins. Neal can be a hard guy to pin down, not always looking like he can handle elite opposition, while also being able to turn things up and giving Shavkat Rakhmonov a hell of a fight. There's high potential for explosive action here, with Garry being able to finish a fight in an instant and Neal having the potential to do the same."

Covers: Ian Garry

Staff writes: "Garry does an excellent job of using his 6-foot-3 frame and looks just as fluid in close as he is at intermediate and long range. He should be able to get the win here but I'm reluctant to back him at this moneyline number, especially since he's been dropped by Song Kenan and Mateusz Figlak. Look elsewhere for betting value in this bout."

Sports Illustrated: Pick Neal

Matthew Riddle writes: "Neal is as underestimated as ever, he's got dynamite hands and knows how to box. I expect Garry to fight on the outside, but I also expect Neal to make it ugly and work some dirty boxing to his advantage. I go with Neal for the upset."

UFC 298: Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry odds, total rounds

Ian Machado Garry is the favorite to defeat Geoff Neal, according to the BetMGM odds.

All odds as of Friday.

Looking to wager? Check out the best mobile sports betting apps offering  betting promos in 2023.

How to watch UFC 298: Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry

The main card event will commence on Sat. Feb. 17 at 10 p.m. ET.

However, the first fights will start at 6:30 p.m. ET. You can watch all the fights on ESPN+. The four prelim fights will also be broadcasted on ESPN before switching to pay-per-view (via ESPN+) for the main card.

How to watch: Catch UFC action with an ESPN+ subscription

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