DraftKings brought in the big guns to look ahead to this weekend’s UFC 264 card, as teammate Jorge Masvidal revealed Dustin Poirier is in ‘phenomenal shape’ ahead of his trilogy bout with Conor McGregor. 

Given his stardom, inevitably events involving the Irishman McGregor are monumental for sportsbooks, with money being placed at a rapid rate and lines moving more frequently than for a normal clash. 

Johnny Avello, DraftKings Director of Race and Sportsbook operations, joined the panel as he revealed that although the line move has flowed in the favour of Poirier, the money has come in on McGregor, this being due to most of the best coming in late. 

He also shared insight on the challenges of adjusting the line following an underdog victory in the pair’s first clash at Fight Island in January. 

Avello shared that they have seen some action for the fight to end within 60 seconds, as Masvidal, who owns the quickest knockout in UFC history, lauded McGregor as being ‘in your face right away’. Nonetheless, ‘Gamebred’ emphasised that Poirier is ‘more than ready for it’. 

MMA journalist, Chuck Mindenhall, also built anticipation for the clash as he described the stakes as being ‘crazy’, with it having real implications on the legacy of both fighters. 

Host Jon Anik brought discussions to the co-main and a ‘healthy appetiser between Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson and Gilbert Burns at welterweight. 

Breaking down the numbers, Avello revealed that this is ‘his kind of fight’ with bettors pouring in on both fighters and struggling to split the pair, who bring contrasting styles to the table. 

Former foe of Thompson, Masvidal expressed his belief that Burns needs to have a big first round to get the victory, adding that they are ‘worlds apart’ when it comes to striking. 

Concluding the Draftkings preview show – Avello was quizzed by Anik on the challenges of pricing a late replacement, a factor that often becomes prominent in trading combat sports.