Robelis Despaigne is being tipped to make a statement on his return to the UFC, with the heavyweight favoured to beat Tai Tuivasa by knockout at UFC 331. The matchup on the prelims at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles has the feel of a fighter being eased back in against an opponent badly in need of a reset.
That is the central call from Covers.com, which has Despaigne as an 84% favourite and projects a knockout finish as part of its UFC 331 best predictions. It is a strong verdict, but one that fits the shape of the bout: Despaigne comes in having stayed active and found success outside the promotion, while Tuivasa arrives on a seven-fight losing streak.
Why Despaigne is the clear pick
The logic behind the pick is straightforward. Despaigne has improbably found his way back to the UFC, and the promotion is giving him a matchup that plays to his strengths against a struggling veteran. If the fight stays on the terms expected, the most likely ending is Despaigne landing the cleaner, more decisive shots.
In that sense, the 78% knockout angle attached to the fight market underlines the expectation that this is not a bout set up for a long, careful decision. Despaigne does not need to do much more than impose his power early and force Tuivasa into a defensive fight.
Tuivasa's problem is the run, not just the opponent
Tuivasa’s current losing streak is the biggest reason the market has moved so firmly toward Despaigne. Seven fights in a row is a harsh stretch at any level, and in a heavyweight contest it usually means the margin for error has gone. Once that kind of run starts, every early exchange carries extra pressure.
The UFC 331 prelims feature a mix of established veterans fighting to remain relevant and rising fighters looking to take the next step this Saturday. Tuivasa fits squarely into the first group, while Despaigne is the one with momentum and the cleaner path to making a return feel worthwhile.
What comes next
If Despaigne wins in the manner projected, it would be a useful way to announce himself again inside the UFC. For Tuivasa, the task is simpler but far more urgent: break the skid and show he still belongs at this level. At the moment, though, the pick remains clear — Despaigne by knockout.
