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  • UFC 206: Holloway vs. Pettis Predictions

    UFC 206: Holloway vs. Pettis Predictions

    Image result for ufc 206 poster

    If you didn’t get enough UFC action from UFC Fight Night 102 in Albany, then you’re in luck! In less than 24 hours from the end of UFC Albany, the UFC makes the trek to Toronto, Canada for UFC 206. Originally, the card was supposed to feature a Light Heavyweight title fight between Champion Daniel Cormier and challenger Anthony Johnson. Unfortunately, Cormier suffered an injury and the fight was scrapped. Promoted to the main event however is a spectacular fight between former UFC Lightweight Champion Anthony Pettis and Max Holloway. The stakes for the fight are raised (I guess), as it’s for the Interim Featherweight title and an immediate fight against Undisputed Champion Jose Aldo. And the reason for the Interim title fight and why Jose Aldo is the Undisputed UFC Featherweight champion is because the UFC decided to strip Conor McGregor of the title. 

    Co-Headlining the card is a battle between two exciting welterweights in Donald Cerrone and Matt Brown. Both are pure entertainment when they grace the octagon and I can’t honestly see this one needing any judges. Both men are dangerous strikers and I expect this one to be contested mostly on the feet. 

    Some other fun fights are Doo Ho Choi vs. Cub Swanson, Tim Kenndedy vs. Kelvin Gastelum, Jordan Mein vs. Emil Meek…so for anyone calling this card crap is crazy… Anyways, let’s get to the predictions!

    UFC 206 PPV main card (10 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Max Holloway vs. Anthony Pettis for Interim featherweight Title – This was an amazing fight when announced and still is, but I feel as it’s been dampened due to the surrounding factors. For one, the fight was elevated to the Main event after Daniel Cormier dropped out of his title fight against Anthony Johnson. That’s fine, but the UFC didn’t think it was strong enough to headline a PPV that they stripped Conor McGregor of his title, made Jose Aldo the undisputed Featherweight Champion and made this fight for the Interim Featherweight Championship. And even sillier enough, Pettis missed weight and only Max Holloway can win the Interim Featherweight Championship.

    Anyways, this should be an excellent fight between two strikers. Pettis, the former UFC Lightweight Champion recently made a successful Flyweight debut by defeating top contender Charles Oliveira via submission. Pettis is an excellent striker, who’s got a diverse range of attacks. If you haven’t seen the “Showtime kick”, then I don’t know what to tell you. Pettis also has slick submissions from his back – I mean that’s how he won the UFC Lightweight title. As for Holloway, he’s a star. His striking is amazing and he uses the right amount of distance and aggression. His grappling and take down defense is superb. In other words, he’s a complete mixed martial artist, who’s riding on a ridiculous nine-fight win streak at the tender age of 25. If anyone deserves an opportunity at winning a belt, it’s Max Holloway.

    As for a prediction, Holloway all day. Pettis missing weight, is a scary thought when considering that this is obviously a five round fight. Holloway has cardio for days, is durable as hell and is going to put away the former UFC Lightweight Champion at some point. While this might be a fun striking affair, eventually Pettis will wilt and with that, I got Holloway winning this via a 4th round TKO!

    170 lbs.: Donald Cerrone vs. Matt Brown – This fight has pure violence written all over it, as both men are pure mixed martial art entertainers. I’d be dumb not to say that this one has Fight of the Night written all over it, although I do think it ends in the very first round. And I believe that “Cowboy” Donald Cerrone gets it done.

    Cerrone just has a ridiculous arsenal of strikes, as well as very underutilized but superior grappling abilities. Brown is a good striker too, but he relies on his toughness and ability to wear you down. Cerrone has amazing cardio and is going to put a clinic on Matt Brown in this fight. I could very well see a TKO victory via body kick, something that Matt Brown has been dropped by several times. Actually that’s my prediction…Cerrone via TKO!

    145 lbs.: Cub Swanson vs. Doo Ho Choi – This is a what I call a changing of the guard fight, as Doo Ho Choi has an opportunity to catapult himself into the top five in the division with a victory over the veteran Swanson. Both men are strikers, but Swanson is an excellent grappler and could use that route to neutralize Choi. However, since Swanson has come back from his mini-layoff, he hasn’t quite impressed me. Against Tatsuya Kawajiri, a fight he could of very well lost, he was taken down several times and even was out grappled. Also Kawajiri and Hacran Dias (Opponents since the mini-layoff) are both grapplers with limited striking, which stylistically favors Swanson.

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Choi. He’s an unbelievable striker, who’s technical and precise. He also happens to have heavy hands… Actually he really reminds me of Conor McGregor in a sense (I know I’m reaching…maybe). I believe that his take down defense is stout and when he keeps this on the feet, Swanson’s going to be in the same trouble he was against Max Holloway. So with that, I have Choi via KO!

    185 lbs.: Tim Kennedy vs. Kelvin Gastelum – This is an excellent fight, but there’s no way I’m not picking Tim Kennedy. Gastelum is really a 170 pounder who just can’t make the weight. He’s an excellent well rounded fighter, who has overcome being an underdog his entire career. And arguably he could of very well been given the nod over current UFC Welterweight champion Tyron Woodley when they fought at UFC 183. 

    Anyways, Tim Kennedy is huge for the weight class and has superior grappling abilities. And if there’s one knock on Gastelum, it’s his defensive wrestling. If you recall in his fight against Neil Magny, he was taken down over and over with relative ease. I expect Kennedy to do the same, except that once Gastelum’s back hits the ground, he won’t be getting up unless the round ends or the ref stops the fight. So with that, I have Kennedy via a dominant submission victory

    170 lbs.: Jordan Mein vs. Emil Meek – Jordan Mein is 27 years old, has 39 fights and is coming out of retirement nearly 2 years later. The layoff could potentially of been a good thing, as he’s allowed his body to recharge from all the punishment it’s taken in such a short time. His opponent Meek, is 28 years old, has only 10 fights and is coming a huge upset knockout victory over Rousimar Palhares.  Both men are strikers…vicious strikers. Mein throws excellent standing elbows, while Meek has pure thunder in his hands. 

    As for a prediction, I want to pick Mein because I believe that he’s got the better arsenal on the feet, but I’m going to side with Meek. He’s riding high right now with a knockout victory over Rousimar Palhares, which earned him the UFC invite. I have a feeling he’s not going to disappoint and his his UFC debut, he’s going to add a knockout victory over Jordan Mein to his highlight real.  

    UFC 206 “Prelims” on FOX Sports 1 (8 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Misha Cirkunov vs. Nikita Krylov – What a great fight, with big implications for the winner. The Light Heavyweight division while top heavy, is one of thinnest divisions in the UFC. I mean, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira is ranked #10 and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua is #7.

    Anyways, I can’t pick against Nikita Krylov here. He’s got a huge advantage on the feet and he’s a sneaky solid scrambler. Cirkunov is super strong and would like to take this one to the mat, where he can where you down with his weight and attempt submissions. However, Krylov has dealt with big powerful fighters when he was fighting in the Heavyweight division. I mean, Soa Palelei cuts down to get to 265 lbs… So with that, Krylov continues his improbable run and knocks off the prospect via late TKO!

    155 lbs.: Drew Dober vs. Olivier Aubin-Mercier – This is an evenly contested fight, but I’m going to slightly edge OAB. I believe that his grappling is the only definite advantage between the two. On the feet, I expected OAB to progress, but he hasn’t. I will admit that Dober has though and as a fighter in general. Again though, this is a close one, but I got OAB via decision.

    115 lbs.: Valerie Letourneau vs. Viviane Pereira – No idea who Viviane Pereira is, but Letourneau is one of the top Strawweights in the division. She’s really a Flyweight, but the UFC has not added that division yet. I see Pereira is an undefeated Brazilian, but a huge red flag is that she’s only 5′ foot tall and has a 63 inch reach. Letourneau is 5’7 with a 68.5 inch reach and is a solid striker. This one doesn’t seem like it’s going to be pretty…Letourneau via decision!

    135 lbs.: Mitch Gagnon vs. Matthew Lopez – Never heard of Matthew Lopez, but Gagnon has been around in the UFC for awhile now. His last fight almost two years ago, but it was against the former Bantamweight kingpin Renan Barao. A fight in which he fared rather well in up until the third round finish. Again, I don’t know Lopez…so I got Gagnon via decision. 

    UFC 206 “Prelims” on Fight Pass (6:30 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Lando Vannata vs. John Makdessi – This fight is going to be groovy (Hint, Hint). We got two solid strikers, with Makdessi being technical and Vannata being unpredictable. It’s certain that this fight is going to take place on the feet and it has potential to be an early contender for the Fight of the Night. Makdessi, when he entered the UFC I was super high on. And while he’s been rather successful,  it’s been at a mid-tier level. He hasn’t been able to crack the top ten and while he did fight Donald Cerrone on short notice, he also got his jaw broken in that fight. As for Vannata, I couldn’t of been more impressed with him in his fight on short notice against Tony Ferguson. He dropped Ferguson several times and was nearly able to pull off the improbable upset. For Vannata to look that good against one of the best fighters in the Lightweight division is a huge nod. As for a prediction, obviously I’m siding with Lando “Groovy” Vannata. Makdessi is a technical striker who’s not aggressive, but rather likes to counter his opponents. Vannata is super aggressive and is so unpredictable with his striking, that I believe he’s going to have a field day against Makdessi. I’m expecting a first round KO!

    155 lbs.: Rustam Khabilov vs. Jason Saggo – In all fairness, this is actually an underrated fight. I think it’s because Saggo is relatively unknown, but he’s 3-1 in the UFC, with his only loss coming via split decision to Paul Felder. His victories however, have come against three opponents no longer in the UFC. That’s not to discredit him, but to say that this is his toughest fight to date. As for Khabilov, the once highly regarded Lightweight is slowly starting to get himself back to top ten fights. He’s won three in a row, using his excellent grappling to aid him. Saggo, while pretty well rounded, noticeably isn’t the greatest defensive wrestler. And that’s something that Khabilov is going to attack and often, as he’s a grinder. I expect this one to be close, but I’m siding with Khabilov’s grappling to earn him the decision victory.    

    125 lbs.: Zach Makovsky vs. Dustin Ortiz – An important fight for both men, as they enter this contest loser’s of two straight and three of their last four fights. In a growing division, a win is a must not only to keep their jobs, but stay relevant in the division. As of late, I think Ortiz has fell from grace the most. After beating Ray Borg and Justin Scoggins, he built momentum to be a potential and worthy challenger in the Flyweight division. However, he’s since lost that steam and his last few fights has been thoroughly dominated. It seems like his bread and butter which is grappling, just isn’t on par with the top ten in the division. As for Makovsky, despite his losing streak, he’s been competitive in his fights. He’s also faced arguably the top five in the division in John Dodson (since moved to Bantamweight), Joseph Benavidez and Jussier Formiga. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Makovsky. He’s an accomplished wrestler and will hold his own grappling against Ortiz. His striking has come leaps and bounds, as he was able to go toe to toe with John Dodson for the most part. Ortiz has no striking and if he can’t put Makovsky on his back, it’s going to be a long night. So with that, I have Makovsky winning this by decision.

  • UFC Fight Night 102: Lewis vs. Abdurakhimov Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 102: Lewis vs. Abdurakhimov Predictions

    Image result for ufc fight night 102 poster

    A day before UFC 206, the UFC first hosts UFC Fight Night 102 in Albany, New York. This will be the second card held in New York in less than a month. Headlining this card, is a pair of heavyweights in Derrick Lewis and Shamil Abdurakhimov. It’s an odd fight in terms of matchmaking, as Lewis is coming off his biggest win to date against Roy Nelson and in the midst of a four-fight win streak. Abdurakhimov, has won two straight fights since dropping his UFC debut to Timothy Johnson. A win over Lewis, would instantly catapult Abdurakhimov close to the top ten. 

    Co-Headlining the card, is another pair of heavyweights in Francis Ngannou and Anthony Hamilton. Ngannou, a winner of seven straight fights has been nothing but spectacular since joining the UFC almost a year ago. He’s 3-0 in the UFC with three finishes. As for Hamilton, he’s coming off a 14 second knockout victory over Damian Grabowski. He’s been a mixed bag in the UFC, trading wins and losses in his six fights. 

    Anyways, let’s get to the Predictions!

    UFC Fight Pass Main Card (9 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Derrick Lewis vs. Shamil Abdurakhimov – Odd main event. I mean, I’ve known about Abdurakhimov from the times he beat Jeff Monson and Rameau Thierry Sokoudjou. I’ve always thought he was a UFC-caliber fighter, and it’s refreshing to see that he finally arrived and has been fairly consistent since. However, this fight is going to be his toughest to date. Lewis is no joke, as he’s one of the heaviest hitters and is just an extremely strong person in general. He’s won four straight fights, including three by knockout. He’s coming off a win over Roy Nelson and before that a Performance of the Night against Gabriel Gonzaga. Lewis is battle tested and I can’t see him losing this fight. The only route to victory that Abdurakhimov has is wrestling and grinding out Lewis into the later rounds. And I just can’t see that happening… So with that, I have Lewis via first round KO!

    265 lbs.: Anthony Hamilton vs. Francis Ngannou – Aww yeaaaa, some Heavyweight action in which I can assure that somebodies going to sleep. Ngannou, is a rare commodity in the Heavyweight division. He’s a fresh face, a prospect if you will and only 30 years old. The average age among Heavyweights is probably 36, so he’s a spring chicken in this division. As for Hamilton, he’s coming off his biggest win to date, as he recorded a 14 second victory over Damian Grabowski. Name-sake not the biggest, but just the destruction and quickness to it makes me more giddy when he collides with Ngannou. Unfortunately for Hamilton though, I favor Ngannou in every aspect of this fight. Plus, Hamilton hasn’t shown a bit of consistency in the UFC and he’s had a pattern of wins and losses…and if the trend continues, this one should result in a loss. I agree, as I have Ngannou via KO!

    205 lbs.: Corey Anderson vs. Sean O’Connell – Now we’re talking! This is a fun fight, but an easy one to pick. It all comes down to technique and Corey Anderson has it. O’Connell is a fan favorite fighter, as he’s willing to brawl with no caution at all. Anderson also happens to be an excellent grappler, which he could use in this fight if O’Connell comes at him too aggressively. So, in my opinion Anderson has more routes to win. However, I think he just touches up O’Connell on the feet with his technical striker. So with that, I have Anderson carving up O’Connell before finishing him off late in the third. 

    205 lbs.: Gian Villante vs. Saparbek Safarov – These fights are just like “Really”. I mean, who is Safarov and what did he do with a person on the UFC roster I know? Villante, a New Yorker, should have no issues with this fight and is going to have the crowd on his side. I can’t even continue to break this down…Villante via KO!

    UFC Fight Pass “Prelims” (6 p.m. ET):

    115 lbs.: Justine Kish vs. Ashley Yoder – I know both are TUF alums, but I only saw TUF 20 in which Kish was in. She was injured during the season, but I know she’s a solid striker. That’s good enough for me to side with her. So with that, I got Kish via decision. 

    170 lbs.: Randy Brown vs. Brian Camozzi – Brown, is basically now a veteran of the UFC, which is crazy to say given he was found on Dana White’s show “Looking for a Fight” not long ago.  He’s 2-1 in the UFC, most recently defeating Erick Montano via submission in a fight in which he was probably losing. His combatant, Brian Camozzi is the brother of UFC veteran Chris Camozzi, but that’s all I know. So obviously I’m not picking him. I’m siding with Brown, who’s an ever improving striker and fighter in general. He’s had growing pains since joining the UFC, but he’s young and he’s already shown improvement since his debut. Anyways, I got Brown taking this via decision.

    185 lbs.: Joseph Gigliotti vs. Gerald Meerschaert – O come on, another pair of fighters that I barely know. Um…the coin flip goes to Gigliotti via decision. 

    185 lbs.: Andrew Sanchez vs. Trevor Smith – “Hot Sauce” Trevor Smith is one of the oddest fighters I’ve seen. He’s steadily improved in the striking department and his grappling is solid. He’s actually been…um…consistent. Also I don’t who Andrew Sanchez is, so with that, I have Smith via decision. 

    155 lbs.: Shane Burgos vs. Tiago Trator – Never heard of Burgos and I’ve seen multiple fights of Tiago Trator. You know how this goes…Trator via decision. 

    155 lbs.: Frankie Perez vs. Marc Diakiese – Fun fight, as you got a recently unretired Frankie Perez against a highlight real striker in Marc Diakiese. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Perez, despite being a rather decisive underdog in this fight. I just wasn’t overly impressed with Diakiese in his UFC debut against Lukasz Sajewski. His opponent was already 0-2 in the UFC and just didn’t look the part of fighter to begin with and Diakiese struggled with him early. Perez trains with Frankie Edgar, Eddie Alvarez among other guys. Perez is going to use a heavy dose of grappling and neutralize Diakiese striking by having him on his back. So while everyone is high on Diakiese, I’m not sold yet. Maybe this fight turns me into a believer, but for now, I got Perez winning this via decision. 

    185 lbs.: Keith Berish vs. Ryan Janes – Wait, isn’t Berish the dude that got sacrificed to Robert Drysdale? That was like 2 years ago…which is why I’m not picking him. So with that analytical breakdown, I got Janes via decision.  

    115 lbs.: Juliana Lima vs. J.J. Aldrich – Not Sure who J.J. Aldrich is, but I do know Juliana Lima. So the way this prediction goes, is that I’m siding with the one I know…Lima via decision. 

  • TUF 24 Finale: Johnson vs. Elliott Predictions

    TUF 24 Finale: Johnson vs. Elliott Predictions

    Image result for TUF 24 finale poster

    A week after Robert Whittaker solidified his status as a legit threat in the Middleweight division, the UFC returns to action for an excellent TUF 24 Finale card. However, this card won’t crown a winner, as this season had a twist to it. The UFC brought in Flyweight Champions from around the world, who would fight in a tournament, with the winner earning an immediate title shot against Demetrious Johnson. The winner, was former UFC flyweight Tim Elliott, who will be looking to make the most of this rare opportunity. 

    In the Co-Headliner, the TUF 24 coaches do battle, as Joseph Benavidez takes on Henry Cejudo in potentially a number one contenders fight. Benavidez has strung off five straight victories since losing to Demetrious Johnson via knockout back at UFC on Fox 9. And if he can defeat Henry Cejudo, he’s pretty much cleared out the entire Flyweight division other than Demetrious Johnson. As for Cejudo, his last fight was against the aforementioned Demetrious Johnson, which he saw defeat in the very first round. Before the lost, the Olympic gold medalist was undefeated and looked to be a huge threat to ending the reign of Johnson.

    Anyways, let’s just get to the Predictions!

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson vs. Tim Elliot – Now, I love Tim Elliott. His fighting style is must watch and I believe he has a real shot at making this fight ugly and close. BUT, there’s no way I can pick against perhaps the Pound for Pound best in Demetrious Johnson. He’s literally shown no weaknesses. And other than my proposed “Making this fight ugly” which might not even win him the fight, the only thing I can think of is a lucky punch? Elliott is super durable, he throws in volume, his footwork is funky (similar to that of Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz) and I really do think he’s a worthy challenger. I expect him to make this fight a fun and high pace battle, but Johnson eventually wearing Elliott down with takedowns and heavy top control, finishing him in the Championship rounds. So with that, I have the Flyweight Kingpin winning this one via a hard fought late submission victory. 

    125 lbs.: Joseph Benavidez vs. Henry Cejudo – This is a fun fight, but I have Benavidez here. Cejudo is definitely a top notch Flywight, but I feel like he needs more experience before facing the upper echelon of the division. And it showed against Demetrious Johnson, but then again, Johnson does excel in making opponents look bad. Anyways, Benavidez is just a more experienced fighter, who’s basically cleared out the division. He’s very well rounded and his striking is going to be the difference in this fight. I firmly believe his grappling cancels out Cejudo’s wrestling and on the feet, like I said, I favor Benavidez. So with that, I have Benavidez taking this one via decision. 

    170 lbs.: Jake Ellenberger vs. Jorge Masvidal – I was super happy to see Jake Ellenberger get back to his old roots against Matt Brown, as he was borderline reaching the point of no longer being a UFC caliber talent. This fight however is a really tough one for him, as Masvidal might be one of the most underrated fighters on the roster. He’s lost four fights in the UFC, three by split decision and even the unanimous defeat could of gone his way. His ability to “Coast” in a fight has dearly cost him, as he could very well be undefeated as I alluded too. As for a prediction, it’s pretty obvious that I have Masvidal. He’s durable, has excellent head movement, great footwork, technical striking, solid grappling…basically as well rounded as you can get. So with that, I have Masvidal winning this via knockout due to Ellenberger’s slowly durability wearing away. 

    205 lbs.: Jared Cannonier vs. Ion Cutelaba – I’ve seen both fight, but not enough to make a fair prediction. I do however recall Cannonier as a Heavyweight and being a very agressive striker. In fact, I think Cutelaba is also aggressive, which probably means this fight ends in KO. So with that, I’m coin flipping this….Cannonier via KO!

    135 lbs.: Alexis Davis vs. Sara McMann – If this fight took place a year ago, I’d a had a hard time deciding a winner. However, Davis took a year off as she became a mother. Meanwhile, McMann has been sharpening her tools, most recently showing that in her victory over Jessica Eye. And while Davis is an excellent grappler, McMann’s wrestling and smothering top game should neutralize that. So with that, I have McMann winning this one via decision. 

    125 lbs.: Ryan Benoit vs. Brandon Moreno – This is going to be a fun fight and a potential “Fight of the Night” candidate. Benoit is a wrestler, who also happens to be very heavy handed. He kind of reminds me of Jamie Varner. His combatant Moreno is a willing striker, who’s more wild in his approach, but ridiculously durable. His ability to take punishment and keep coming at a high pace is such an advantage. Moreno is more known for his grappling and submission prowess, but he’s really improved and made it a focal point that his striking is dangerous too. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Moreno here. While I think the power of Benoit will be a huge factor in this fight, Moreno’s cardio, pace and ability to just keep coming forward will earn him the decision victory here.

    FOX Sports 1 “Prelims” (8 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Ryan Hall vs. Gray Maynard – I still can’t believe how Gray Maynard is still fighting. It’s sad too, as he’s gone from an almost Lightweight Champion to now simply just a shell of himself. And he’s now he’s trying to reinvent himself in the Featherweight division. It’s just too late and while Ryan Hall is only a threat with his Jui-Jitsu, I think that’s all he needs to get it done. The old Maynard would destroy Hall, but now he’s literally old. So with that, I have Hall via decision. 

    135 lbs.: Rob Font vs. Matt Schnell – I think Schnell was a competitor on TUF 24, but that’s about it. Font is a talented bantamweight and his striking is getting better and better each fight. I think that shows here, as he wins this one via KO!

    115 lbs.: Kailin Curran vs. Jamie Moyle – Never heard or seen Jamie Moyle, but I know Kailin Curran. She’s really been underwhelming in her UFC career, as she’s faltered a few times late in fights she was winning. This fight however she should win, as it just seems like one those bounce back fights. So with that, I got the feisty Strawweight winning this via decision. 

    205 lbs.: Devin Clark vs. Josh Stansbury – I have no idea really who these guys are…so with that, a coin flip has decided that Devin Clark is your winner via decision. 

    UFC Fight Pass “Prelims” (7 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Elvis Mutapcic vs. Anthony Smith – This is a really fun fight and it’s pretty much guaranteed to take place solely on the feet. And if I were to make a prediction based off that, I’m siding with Anthony Smith. He’s aggressive and puts forth a tough pace, which I think eventually will wilt Mutapcic. So with that, I have Smith via late KO!

    155 lbs.: Dong Hyun Kim vs. Brendan O’Reilly – Kim just had one of the candidates for Fight of the Year against Polo Reyes. And despite losing, he showed heart and formidable striking abilities. His striking defense was non existent, but that’s what made that fight a slobber knocker. Anyways, I’m siding with “Lil Dong” as they call him (I think), as Brendan O’Reilly has never really impressed me. His durability his questionable, which is why I got Kim via KO!

  • UFC Fight Night 101: Whittaker vs. Brunson Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 101: Whittaker vs. Brunson Predictions

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    After last week’s UFC double header in Ireland and Brazil, the UFC now heads down under, to Melbourne, Australia. Headlining the event, is a pair of Middleweight contenders in Robert Whittaker and Derek Brunson. Whittaker heads into this bout on a five-fight win streak, four of which took place in the Middleweight division. With recent victories over the likes of Uriah Hall, Brad Tavares and Rafael Natal, Whittaker is within reach of top-five status with a win over Brunson. As for the aformentioned Brunson, he heads into this contest on a complete tear. He’s rattled off five straight victories, including the last four coming via first round TKO’s. During this win streak, he’s beaten some notables such as Lorenz Larkin, Uriah Hall and Sam Alvey. With a victory over Whittaker, there’s no doubting that Brunson’s a top five Middleweight and a serious contender in a loaded division.

    Co-Headlining the card, the Australian native Jake Matthews takes on Andrew Holbrook. Matthews is coming off a tough loss to Kevin Lee, which derailed a two-fight win streak. Lee proved to be too athletic and strong, taking Matthews down with ease and finishing him with ground-and-pound. However, at 22 years old, Matthews still has a bright future and a chance to bounce back here. As for Holbrook, he comes into this bout fresh off his first pro defeat to Joaquim Silva. It was a tough one too, as the bout only lasted 34 seconds. Hopefully this bout last longer for Holbrook, as he needs to avoid two straight defeats and a possible pink slip from the UFC.

    Other names on this card include Kyle Noke, Chris Camozzi, Richard Walsh and Dan Hooker. Also don’t blink when Ben Nguyen and Geane Herrera lock horns, as I’m pretty certain this bout has fireworks written all over it. Anyways, let’s get to the predictions!

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Derek Brunson (16-3, 7-1 UFC) vs. Robert Whittaker (16-4, 7-2 UFC)

    – This is a great main event and a great opportunity for both men, as a win here not only helps crack the top five in a stacked Middleweight division, but also puts the winner one fight away from a title shot. Whittaker, since making the jump up to 185 pounds, is undefeated. He’s been able to use his technical striking to carve up opponents and solid take down defense to keep fights upright. Meanwhile, Brunson himself has been on a tear. More so known for his solid wrestling abilities, it’s actually been his striking that has more of a threat of late. His last four opponents have lasted an average of under two minutes, all succumbing via TKO. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Brunson. I believe that Whittaker since moving up to the Middleweight division, hasn’t faced anyone physically as opposing as Brunson. With solid wrestling abilities, a recent showing of legit knockout power and freak athleticism, I just can’t see how Whittaker will be able to keep distance. Remember, Brunson was handily beating Yoel Romero (The number one contender) before Romero broke his jaw in the third round. He is literally a round away from being a perfect 8-0 inside the octagon. Anyways, like I said, I got Brunson. I think he’s going to be able to take Whittaker down at will and eventually finish him. So with that, I have Brunson via TKO. 

    155 lbs.: Andrew Holbrook (11-1, 1-1 UFC) vs. Jake Matthews (11-2, 4-2 UFC) 

    – I’m not going to over analyze this fight, as Jake Matthews is set up here to rebound from his last outing against Kevin Lee. Holbrook, if not for a gift decision victory by the judges against Ramsey Nijem, would probably be back to fighting on the regional scene. His last fight lasted 34 seconds and I can’t see this one lasting that long too. So with that, I have Matthews winning this via first round submission.

    170 lbs.: Kyle Noke (22-9-1, 6-5 UFC) vs. Omari Akhmedov (15-4, 3-3 UFC) 

    – This could very well be a pink-slip fight, as both men are on two-fight skids. Noke, a cast member of TUF 11, has been in the UFC since 2010. He started out his UFC career with three straight victories, but in the last five years had traded wins and losses. Akhmedov, also started his UFC career with success, winning three of his four fights. He has since dropped two straight fights, including a fight of the night with Elizeu Zaleski. 

    As for a prediction, I really can’t say one or the the other with certainty, but I’ll go with the veteran in Kyle Noke. I mean, he’s an insanely inconsistent competitor, but he’s fighting in his native Australia and a loss could result in the end of his UFC and MMA career. So with that, I’m going with the desperate and say that Kyle Noke wins this via decision.

    155 lbs.: Yusuke Kasuya (9-2-2, 0-1 UFC) vs. Alex Volkanovski (13-1, 0-0 UFC) 

    – I will never complain about the amount of events the UFC puts on, but it’s awfully hard to keep up with a roster of over 500 fighters. For example, this whole card is full of unknowns to me, just like this fight. However, from what I’ve seen on there records, I’m siding with Volkanovski. He’s won ten straight fights and is knocking everyone out. So with that, I got Volkanovski to continue the trend and win via knockout.

    205 lbs.: Tyson Pedro (4-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Khalil Rountree (4-1, 0-1 UFC)

    – I really don’t know anything about Tyson Pedro and only know of Rountree because he was a finalist for TUF 23. I notice though that Pedro is a finisher, as all four of wins come via submission. Meanwhile, Rountree is a knockout artist, as two of fours wins by that. In other words, I don’t think this fight is going the distance. As for a prediction, I’ll take Rountree by knockout. Pedro has never fought out of the first round, which is too much of an unknown cardio-wise to me if this one gets deeper into the fight.

    115 lbs.: Seo Hee Ham (16-7, 1-2 UFC) vs. Danielle Taylor (7-2, 0-1 UFC) 

    – Ham is such a fun fighter to watch and her nickname Hamderlei Silva makes total sense. She’s crafty on the feet and well rounded overall, but she’s fighting ten pounds above her normal weight class Atomweight. I mention that because Ham’s 1-2 record in the UFC is product of that, as well as the stiff competition she’s faced against natural Strawweight’s. As for Taylor, she is a striker with heavy hands. Against Maryna Moroz, she wasn’t able to showcase that, as she was very hesitant. It had to of been octagon jitters, as Taylor only landed 17 punches (Same amount as Moroz). 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Ham. She’s the better all around fighter and throws and lands strikes in volume. Taylor might have the power, but she’s got to start landing more punches in order for it to mean anything. So with that, I have Ham via decision.

    FOX Sports 1 “Prelims” (8 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Chris Camozzi (24-11, 9-8 UFC) vs. Daniel Kelly (11-1, 4-1 UFC) 

    – I’ve been back and forth with this fight, as it really could go either way. And that’s saying something, as I’ve often criticized Kelly and some of sloppy wins. However, his last fight against Antonio Carlos Junior was super impressive. I mean, I didn’t think he had a shot and manhandled Carlos Junior in every aspect, especially on the ground. Meanwhile, Camozzi is coming off a pretty dominant defeat to Thales Leites, which saw a three-fight win streak come to an end.

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Camozzi here. While Kelly has a path to victory by implementing a heavy grappling attack, I believe that Camozzi’s active guard and ability to get up will be detrimental in this fight. I say that because on the feet, Camozzi’s six inch reach advantage is going to be huge. I expect Camozzi to keep distance and throws tons of jabs en route to a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Damien Brown (16-9, 1-1 UFC) vs. Jon Tuck (9-3, 3-3 UFC)

    – This is a tough fight for Damien Brown and like his debut against Alan Patrick, it comes against a UFC veteran. Tuck, has traded wins and losses since debuting in 2012 and according to the pattern, is in line for a win here. And a projected win, means we shall see the Tuck that shows promise and potential to make a run in the Lightweight division. Plus in this matchup, Tuck is more athletic and will have a sizable reach advantage. So with that, I have Tuck via late TKO. 

    170 lbs.: Jonathan Meunier (7-1, 0-1 UFC) vs. Richard Walsh (9-4, 2-3 UFC) 

    – This is a toss-up, as Meunier had a lackluster debut against a very talented Colby Covington, while Walsh has been a no show in the octagon . I mean, I understand why Meunier faltered against Covington on short notice, but I don’t understand how Walsh doesn’t have any facets to his mixed martial arts game that stand out. I guess if I were to point anything out, it might be his ability to make a fight ugly, which has worked. However, all Meunier has to do in this fight is either counter Walsh on the feet or attack Walsh’s questionable takedown defense. So with that, I’m taking Meunier here via decision.

    125 lbs.: Geane Herrera (9-2, 1-2 UFC) vs. Ben Nguyen (15-6, 2-1 UFC) 

    – This has fight of the night written all over it, as you have two willing strikers, who carry power and durability into this match. Herrera is coming off a defeat to former Flyweight title challenger Ali Bagautinov, which in my opinion was poor matchmaking. You have a young up-and-comer, who lacks experience in mixed martial arts and you pair him up against a former title challenger and absolute beast of a grappler? Anyways, his combatant Nguyen is also coming off a loss, as Louis Smolka absolutely dominated every aspect of the fight. The fight lasted much longer than it should of, as Nguyen’s durability and heart kept him from going away easy. 

    As for a prediction, I have Herrera in this one. I believe that due to his tough matchmaking, he hasn’t been able to highlight his skill set. And while Nguyen is not an easy fight by any means, he’s a pure striker, which plays right into Herrera’s game. What I mean is, Herrera’s athleticism and offensive wrestling should neutralize Nguyen on the feet and when they brawl, I feel that Herrera will land the better punches while dodging Nguyen’s. So with that, I have Herrera via decision in a barnburner.

    UFC Fight Pass “Prelims” (6:30 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Daniel Hooker (13-6, 3-2 UFC) vs. Jason Knight (15-2, 1-1 UFC) 

    – Daniel Hooker is quickly proving to be one of the more durable and exciting fighters in the UFC. With an already solid ground game, he’s been steadily improving on the feet. And while he’s been defeated by dynamic strikers Maximo Blanco and Yair Rodriguez, he doesn’t have to worry so much in this bout about flying knee’s or spinning roundhouse kicks. Knight is more of a basic striker, who has shown good grappling and aggressiveness on the ground. As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Hooker. He’s got the reach in this fight and the ability to take Knights best and keep coming forward. Plus he’s 7-1 when fighting in Australia. So with that, I have Hooker via decision.

    135 lbs.: Marlon Vera (7-3-1, 1-2 UFC) vs. Ning Guangyou (5-3-1, 2-1 UFC)

    – Speaking of TUF China, Guangyou won the season, defeating Jianping Yang via decision. Again though, the talent that came out the season is probably some of the worst and his other win comes against a fellow member of that TUF. Vera, while 1-2 in the UFC really impressed me in his fight against Roman Salazar. He’s got formidable striking and an active guard. Unfortunately, his last fight he was handily defeated by Davey Grant, but I’m chalking that up to a “bad night at the office”. Clearly I believe there is some potential in Vera and I believe he gets back into the win column here via decision. 

    125 lbs.: Jenel Lausa (6-2, 0-0 UFC) vs. Yao Zhikui (2-3, 1-2 UFC)

    – I believe Zhikui was a cast member of TUF China, but the talent that came out of that was fairly abysmal. I have no idea who Lausa is, other than he’s new blood in the flyweight division. He’s also got a winning record and that goes a long way in this bout. So with that, I have the “Demolition Man” Lausa via TKO.

  • UFC Fight Night 100: Bader vs. Nogueira II Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 100: Bader vs. Nogueira II Predictions

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    After UFC Fight Night 99 wraps up, UFC Fight Night 100 will keep the non-stop action going. Headlining the card will be another rematch, as Light Heavyweight contender Ryan Bader looks to build off his impressive knockout victory over Ilir Latifi against the always dangerous Antonio Rogerio Nogueira. It’s remarkable that Antonio Rogerio Nogueira comes into this contest as the tenth ranked fighter, as he’s a mere 1-2 in his last three bouts dating back to 2014. It just shows how shallow the division and how big of an opportunity this is for Nogueira.

    Co-Headlining, is prospect Thomas Almeida against Albert Morales. If you recall, Almeida last fought Cody Garbrandt, in which he was knocked out in the very first round. The defeat ended a perfect 21-0 record, as well as momentum to fight for the title. To think, Garbrandt after the win over Almedia defeated Takeya Mizugaki, earning him a title shot. Anyways, as for Morales, he’s former Bellator and World Series of Fighting competitor. He comes into this bout relatively less experienced and with only one UFC fight to his name. In other words, this is a huge opportunity.

    Also on the card, is former Strawweight title challenger Claudia Gadelha, Thales Leites, Warley Alves, Krzysztof Jotko, Warley Alves, etc.. Anyways, let’s just get to the predictions!

     

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (9 p.m. ET):

     

    205 lbs.: Ryan Bader vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira – Normally, I’d breakdown main events a little more than the other fights, but this one just seems like a no-brainer to me. I mean, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira looks like he has trouble walking and despite shockingly defeating Patrick Cummins, it just seems the amount of battles has caught up with him. Bader is going to have a huge speed advantage and an easy time exploding in for takedowns. The first fight between the two was a toss-up, but this one is just silly at this point. Then again, ranking-wise it’s not bad, but that’s due to a shallow and old Light Heavyweight divison. Anyways, I got Bader by TKO. 

     

    135 lbs.: Thomas Almeida vs. Albert Morales – This might be one of the first Co-Main events in which I had little to no idea who one of the fighters were. I mean, why is Albert Morales, who has six fights and only one in the UFC, fighting Thomas Almeida? This smells like a sacrificial bout, in which the UFC is looking for Almeida to get back in the win column and add to his highlight reel.  And I think it happens, as I have Almeida via KO!
    115 lbs.: Claudia Gadelha vs. Cortney Casey – Gadelha all day here. The former Strawweight title challenger is among the elite in the division, meanwhile Casey while tough and exciting, has nothing for Gadelha. And Casey will find out once they grapple and she gets placed on her back, that she’s not getting up unless she survives the round. So with that, I have Gadelha via a very dominant submission victory.
    185 lbs.: Krzysztof Jotko vs. Thales Leites – Fun fight, as you have an up-and-coming talent in the Middleweight division in Jotko against a veteran and former title challenger in Thales Leites. Both men are primarily grapplers, who are formidable strikers. I would say a few contrast between the two, probably is that Leites has more power in his hands and Jotko has much better cardio. As for a prediction, I’m going with Leites. The veteran is just a handful for anyone in the division and I’d be supremely impressed if Jotko could defeat Leites. So with that, I have Leites via decision. 
    170 lbs.: Warlley Alves vs. Kamaru Usman – This is a really excellent fight, but I’m going to side with Usman here. He’s just an athletic freak, who has some of the very best wrestling in mixed martial. I have high praise and high expectation for Usman, as I believe that he will be cracking the top five of the Welterweight division by next year. And no offense to Alves, as he’s a dynamic striker with excellent grappling abilities. However, he’s going to feel strength and wrestling abilities he’s never encountered. So with that, I got Usman via decision. 
    170 lbs.: Sergio Moraes vs. Zak Ottow – Honestly, this is a coin flip for me. Moraes is a one trick pony, while Ottow most recently stunned Josh Burkman in a relatively odd and hesitant bout. Other than the defeat over Burkman, I really don’t know to much about Ottow other than his toughness. So, I’m going to side with the grappler and expert submission artist in Moraes, as he’ll get this one to the ground and win via submission. 

     

    FOX Sports 1 Undercard “Prelims” (7 p.m. ET):

     

    185 lbs.: Cezar Ferreira vs. Jack Hermansson – I remember when Ferreira was touted to be a Middleweight contender. Then everyone seemingly knocked him out, but credit to “Mutante”, as he’s bounced back with two straight wins. As for Hermansson, he comes into this bout after a successful UFC debut victory over Scott Ashkam. I was really impressed with his footwork, cardio and guerrilla warfare style of striking. The prediction though, I got Ferreira. I think if he can get this one to the ground, he’s going to easily be able to stifle Hermansson. So with that, I got Ferreira via decision. 
    205 lbs.: Gadzhimurad Antigulov vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima – Never heard of this Russian cat, but I know Rogerio de Lima can crack. I still can’t get over how he once fought at 185 lbs. Anyways, I’m siding with Rogerio de Lima to welcome this promotional newcomer via TKO. 

     

    135 lbs.: Johnny Eduardo vs. Manny Gamburyan – This is a toss up to me, but if I were to give any edge in this fight, I’d give it to Eduardo. He’s got the height and reach, plus he’s got an arsenal on the feet. Gamburyan’s career has tremendously tailed off and I’m not sure how much he’s got left in the tank. So with that, I got Eduardo via TKO!
    265 lbs.: Christian Colombo vs. Luis Henrique – I remember seeing Colombo’s UFC debut, which shaky to say the least. He threw tons of knees, but had the worst cardio and just looked like he was 100 years old out there. Henrique has talent and looks to be a solid addition in a depleted and old Heavyweight division. So with that, I have Henrique via KO!  

     

    Fight Pass Undercard “Prelims” (6 p.m. ET):

     

    135 lbs.: Pedro Munhoz vs. Justin Scoggins – This is a tough fight, as Munhoz was once a highly touted prospect, who’s progression has been hampered due to fighting some killers within the division too soon. However, Munhoz looks to build off a performance of the night victory over Russell Doane back in July. As for Scoggins, he moves up to the Bantamweight division after having weight cutting issues to make Flyweight. It’s unfortunate too, as he really looked like he tapped into his potential in a thrashing against Ray Borg. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Scoggins. I just think his striking has evolved tremendously and he’s got a Stephen Thompson style to him. While I expect this one to take place on the feet, Scoggins must avoid Munhoz’s grappling. There he will be in trouble, but I have confidence he will and in doing so, will edge this one out via a close decision victory. 
    205 lbs.: Francimar Barroso vs. Darren Stewart – Never heard of Stewart, but I recall of Barroso fighting some tough guys. That’s good enough for me to side with Barroso via decision.

     

  • UFC Fight Night 99: Mousasi vs. Hall II Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 99: Mousasi vs. Hall II Predictions

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    This will be a unique night in mixed martial arts, as the UFC features two fight cards on the very same day and there is also a Bellator card tonight. So if you like fights, strap in from noon till after midnight of non-stop action!

    Anyways, UFC Fight Night 99 takes place in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Headlining the card is a rematch between Middleweight contender Gegard Mousasi and the dynamic striker Uriah Hall. The last time these men fought, Mousasi was thoroughly controlling Hall. That was until Hall threw a perfectly timed spinning back kick that stunned Mousasi, who had ducked in for a takedown. With Mousasi wobbling all over the place, Hall smelt blood and put Mousasi away via TKO.

    Despite being a short notice replacement fight, it’s a little unorthodox that Mousasi, who has won three straight fights is paired up with a loser of two straight in Hall. The only plausible thought, is that the UFC wanted to keep the now-outspoken and demanding Mousasi happy with a rematch in which he believed was a fluke loss.

    Co-Headlining the card, is a UFC veteran in Ross Pearson against a young lion in Stevie Ray. Pearson has struggled of late and is desperately in need of a win to keep his UFC career in tact, meanwhile Ray will be looking to get back into the win column with by far his biggest name he’s faced yet.

    Also on the card is a pair of former UFC Flyweight Challengers in Kyoji Horiguchi and Ali Bagautinov, the “Motown Phenom” Kevin Lee, Timothy Johnson, Alexander Volkov and sick fight between Artem Lobov and Teruto Ishihara. Anyways, let’s get to the Predictions!

     

    UFC Fight Pass Main Card (3 p.m. ET):

     

    185 lbs.: Uriah Hall vs. Gegard Mousasi – As Mousasi rises up in the Middleweight division and demands fights against the likes of Anderson Silva, the only other way to keep him happy, was to give him a rematch against Uriah Hall. As we know, the dynamic striker Hall spinning back kicked Mousasi into oblivion back in September of 2015. Since that fight, Hall has dropped two straight fights and finds himself with his back up against the wall. In the same span, Mousasi has won three fights in a row and the last two coming via finish.

    As for a prediction, I have Mousasi. I do believe the first fight was lucky in a way, as Mousasi was thoroughly controlling Hall in the fight. Of course, the one strike aspect plays a role in every fight and it did here, so respect to Hall for an amazing win. However, Mousasi is one of the very best fighters on the planet and at only 31 years old, he’s still evolving. His grappling should neutralize Hall and I expect him to be very cautious and fight smart coming into this one. I also expect him to finish Hall and make a statement, that he’s a contender in the Middleweight division. So with that, I have Mousasi via fourth round submission!

     

    155 lbs.: Ross Pearson vs. Stevie Ray – This is a potential changing of the guard fight, where the veteran (Ross Pearson) takes on a young lion (Stevie Ray). Pearson, is the Ultimate Fighter season 9 winner and has been with UFC since 2009. This will be his 22nd fight in the UFC, as well as his fifth this year. His combatant Ray enters this contest looking to get back into the column, as he saw his five-fight win streak snapped by Alan Patrick. Ray, is a striker, so I expect this one to take place the majority on the feet. The advantage there though goes to Pearson, who is a technical boxer. And while Pearson has lost three of his last four fights, he’s been very competitive in defeat. In my opinion, this is Pearson’s fight to lose and he knows to keep his UFC career and/or fighting career going, this is a must win. So with that, I have Pearson via decision. 
    265 lbs.: Timothy Johnson vs. Alexander Volkov – While I want to pick Volkov because I believe he has the better skill set of the two, especially on the feet, I’m not going to. I’m going to side with Timothy Johnson just because of his abilities to make fights ugly and sloppy. He likes to push opponents up against the cage, use his weight to wear down opponents. Johnson might not be the most exciting fighter, nor look like one, he’s a tough customer with a tough style to beat. Volkov’s kryptonite has been grapplers, which is why I’m going to predict that Johnson wins via decision.
    145 lbs.: Teruto Ishihara vs. Artem Lobov – This fight promises sheer violence, as these two men are bonafide strikers with knockout power. However, besides knockout power, Lobov offers no technique or grappling abilities. He fights with hands down and swings for the hips, which is why he comes into this bout with a 12-12 record. Ishihara on the other end, has technique and is well rounded, but he often throws that out the window and engages in a punch for punch battle. This could be an eye opener for him if Lobov lands, but if Ishihara fights somewhat smart, he should easily finish Lobov at some point via TKO!

     

    UFC Fight Pass “Prelims” (12 p.m. ET):
    185 lbs.: Magnus Cedenblad vs. Jack Marshman – When is Cedenblad going to get a step up in competition? I mean, he’s won four in a row, including defeating Krzysztof Jotko. I mention Jotko because Cedenblad remains his lone career defeat and later tonight, Jotko fights Thales Leites. So again, why is Cedenblad facing a promotional newcomer? Whatever, Cedenblad via TKO in a slugfest.
    125 lbs.: Ali Bagautinov vs. Kyoji Horiguchi – Great fight, but Horiguchi is the second best Flyweight. He fought Demetrious Johnson for the title way too soon, due to the division being so shallow and payed for it. This is an excellent fight to sharpen his tools as he eventually will meet Demetrious Johnson again. So with that, I got Horiguchi carvine up Bagautinov on the feet, winning via decision.
    155 lbs.: Kevin Lee vs. Magomed Mustafaev – No offense to Mustafaev, as I know he’s a very promising prospect, but Lee is very underrated. So underrated that I predict he contends for the Lightweight title in 2018. So with that, I have Lee via decision.
    115 lbs.: Amanda Cooper vs. Anna Elmose – Never seem either fight before, so I’m going with Elmo… via decision.
    265 lbs.: Mark Godbeer vs. Justin Ledet – I’ve seen Godbeer fight in Bellator against Cheick Kongo and wasn’t overly impressed with his skill set. Maybe he’s improved, but I’m going with Ledet via TKO!
    170 lbs.: Zak Cummings vs. Alexander Yakovlev – While Zak Cummings is monster for the weight class, Yakovlev is super underrated. Both are coming off loses and need to avoid dropping two straight in a relatively wide open Welterweight division. Cummings is a grappler, which if he can’t force the action to the ground, he becomes less of a threat. Yakovlev is also a grappler, but he has shown formidable striking abilities with knockout power. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Yakovlev in an upset. He’s hard to finish and only been overwhelmed against a superior grappler in Maia (Who couldn’t finish Yakovlev) and a superior wrestler in Kamaru Usman. If he keeps this on the feet, I’m confident he edges this out via decision.
    135 lbs.: Milana Dudieva vs. Marion Reneau – I can’t say I remember seeing Milana Dudieva fight, but I can say I’ve seen all of Marion Reneau’s scraps. She’s a tough customer, is coming off a controversial split decision loss and has been in there with Holly Holm and Jessica Andrade. This is an easy call for me, Reneau is battle tested and has this one in the bags via decision.
    135 lbs.: Brett Johns vs. Kwan Ho Kwak – I’ve heard of Brett Johns before, so I’m siding with him. In all fairness though, I actually look forward to seeing this fight as both are highly regarded on the regional scene and undefeated. However, I have Johns via decision.
    170 lbs.: Abdul Razak Alhassan vs. Charlie Ward – I have no idea who these two are, but I’m really digging the name Abdul Razak Alhassan. Although, Charlie Ward used to be a solid point guard for the Knicks, but this ain’t that guy. Razak via TKO!

     

  • UFC 205: Alvarez vs. McGregor Predictions

    UFC 205: Alvarez vs. McGregor Predictions

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    In 1995, UFC 7 was held in Buffalo. It would be the last event held in the state of New York, as they would go on to ban mixed martial arts. However, as mixed martial arts started to go mainstream, it gained traction throughout the years. States that had barred the sport, started to come around, seeing the revenue the sport generated. After 49 states legalized mixed martial arts, only one stood it’s ground, New York. After years and millions spent on lobbying, the UFC finally broke through in New York this year. This monumental moment for the UFC would come nearly 20 years since UFC 7 in Buffalo.

    With New York becoming the 50th and final state in the United States to legalize mixed martial arts, UFC President Dana White set out to make this the biggest and baddest card the UFC has ever put together. And he did just that…

    Headlining the card is no other than UFC Featherweight Champion Conor McGregor, who looks to become the first fighter in UFC history to simultaneously hold both belts, as he challenges UFC Lightweight Champion Eddie Alvarez. It’s a historic fight on a historic card and a fight of this magnitude is as good as it gets in the UFC.

    Co-Headling the card is a Welterweight contest, as newly minted UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley looks to defend his belt against challenger Stephen Thompson. Stylistically, both fighters couldn’t be more different, which is a reason that this fight is really a toss up.

    Also on the card, there is a third title fight, as UFC Women’s Strawweight kingpin Joanna Jedrzejczyk takes on rising talent and fellow Polish native, Karolina Kowalkiewicz. This should be a legit challenge to Joanna, who other than Claudia Gadelha needs another challenge. At 185 lbs., Yoel Romero and former UFC Middleweight Champion Chris Weidman clash in what should result in a title shot for the winner. With Luke Rockhold injured and Jacare Souza opponent-less, this obviously seems like a title eliminator. 

    Meisha Tate, Frankie Edgar, Khabib Nurmagomedov and others saturate this stacked card, but enough build up, let’s just get to the predictions!

     

    UFC 205 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez vs. Featherweight champion Conor McGregor – This is the mother load, as Conor McGregor will attempt to simultaneously capture two UFC belts. McGregor, most recently avenged his lone UFC defeat to Nate Diaz at UFC 202. In a classic, McGregor edged out Diaz via Majority decision (48-47, 47-47, 48-47). As for Alvarez, otherwise known as the Underground King, would capture UFC gold by shocking Rafael Dos Anjos in the very first round via TKO. Alvarez is the only fighter now to capture both UFC and Bellator titles.

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with McGregor. I believe that his dynamic striking abilities, ability to keep distance and technical yet precise strikes is going to present issues for Alvarez. However, Alvarez has a very clear route to win this fight. He needs to get inside and turn this into a grappling affair. He needs to forget all McGregor’s antics that might have gotten him emotional and fight smart. Implement the same gameplan you did against Anthony Pettis and win this fight, it’s the biggest fight of your career. However, I’m banking on an emotional Alvarez to get into a brawl, get clipped and knocked out in the very first round.

     

    170 lbs.: Welterweight champion Tyron Woodley vs. Stephen Thompson – In a fight of two men who couldn’t be more stylistically different, we are in for a fun one. The Champion Tyron Woodley most recently captured UFC gold, as he shocked fellow ATT member Robbie Lawler. It took only one round and one punch, something that Woodley has finished many with. His opponent Stephen Thompson is on a seven-fight win streak and his karate based attack has flustered every opponent. His decisive victory over Rory MacDonald proved that he is elite and legit threat to the title.

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with the challenger Stephen Thompson. I believe that his karate based attack, long limbs will present issues for Woodley. If he can keep his distance and avoid Woodley from getting inside, he can pick apart Woodley. The only thing I’m nervous about this prediction, is Woodley’s ability to explode and hit you with one powerful flurry. However and again, I expect Thompson to keep his distance ala what Rory MacDonald did to Woodley and eventually knock him out in the 3rd round when Woodley tires.

     

    115 lbs.: Strawweight champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz – Fun fight for the title and a worthy challenger in Karolina Kowalkiewicz. The only thing that has me willing to make my prediction for this fight right of the gate, is that this might be too soon for Kowalkiewicz. Now I know I just said she’s worthy, as she is, but her opponent Joanna Jedrzejczyk is on another level. Jedrzejczyk’s striking, pace and ability to be there all five rounds, is something that Kowalkiewicz is not ready for. I actually believe that her skill set, can give Jedrzejczyk issues, but they need to be sharpened with time and experience. So with that, I Joanna Jedrzejczyk winning via a relatively decisive decision.

     

    185 lbs.: Yoel Romero vs. Chris Weidman – Aww yea! This is a huge fight in the Middleweight division, as I’m viewing this as a title eliminator fight. Weidman, has not fought since losing his title to Luke Rockhold in December of 2015. They were scheduled to rematch, however Weidman pulled out of the bout due to an injury. Romero enters this contest on a seven-fight win streak, including most recently beating Jacare Souza via a controversial split decision. After the bout, Romero was flagged by USADA for failing an out of competition test. After, it was found that the tainted substance found that cause him to fail the test, was found in a supplement which did not reveal the ingredient. 

    As for a prediction, I have Weidman. I believe that while Romero has Olympic level wrestling abilities, is physically imposing and is gifted with heavy hands, his ability to fade in the later rounds will be his downfall. If he doesn’t swarm Weidman early, he’s going to have troubles the longer this fight goes. Weidman is an accomplished wrestler himself and he too is improving his striking. So, in terms of abilities, it’s nearly a wash. However, cardio is my main factor in this prediction and I’m very confident that Weidman can drag this fight out, eventually taking down a tired Romero en route to a TKO victory.

     

    135 lbs.: Raquel Pennington vs. Miesha Tate – Fun fight in the Women’s Bantamweight division, as Miesha Tate looks to bounce back from her title loss against rising contender Raquel Pennington. Tate, the former Women’s Bantamweight Champion as I mentioned, most recently lost her title to Amanda Nunes at UFC 200. She was handily defeated, as Nunes swarmed Tate with flurries of punches, eventually forcing the ref to stop the fight. As for Pennington, she’s on the heels of three fight win streak and is climbing the rankings. This fight against Tate is certainly a jump into the upper echelon of the division. A win over Tate, instantly has Pennington knocking on the door of a title shot.

    As for a prediction, I have Tate. I believe that Pennington is super tough, but her inabilities to distance herself from opponents have made fights much closer than they should. She doesn’t necessarily have the skill set that awes you to believe she’s capable of beating the upper echelon. Tate, while she may not be dominant, I figure is fully capable of outdoing Pennington everywhere and anywhere this fight goes. So with that, Tate via decision.

     

     

    UFC 205 “Prelims” Undercard On FOX Sports 1 (8 p.m. ET)

     

    145 lbs.: Frankie Edgar vs. Jeremy Stephens – Headlining the Prelims, is an all important fight in the Featherweight division, as former Lightweight Champion looks to rebound against Jeremy Stephens. Edgar, most notably fought against Jose Aldo at UFC 200 for the Interim Featherweight title. Aldo physically looked better than ever and showcased that in a rather decisive victory over Edgar. Another loss for Edgar here would put him out of title talks for quite some time, so this is a big one. It’s also a big one for Stephens, who has had mixed results of late, however most recently defeating former Bantamweight champion Renan Barao. A win over Edgar would instantly help Stephens crack the top five of the division, something he’s never come close to sniffing.

    As for a prediction, I have Edgar. He’s one of the most complete fighters in the UFC and he’s faced a fighter of Jeremy Stephens caliber many of times. The only thing Stephens has to offer in this fight is his toughness, durability and knockout power. Edgar’s movement, pace and grappling abilities will nullify all that. And even if Stephens last into the third round, he’s going to be gassed. So with that, I have Edgar via third round TKO!
    155 lbs.: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Michael Johnson – Now we enter the thick of this card, as each fight from here on out carries heavy implications. Nurmagomedov, the uncrowned king is all but guaranteed a title shot with a victory over Johnson right? Well, with Tony Ferguson extending his win streak to nine with a victory over the former Lightweight Champion Rafael Dos Anjos, this title picture is awfully cloudy.

    Anyways, Nurmagomedov holds a pearly record of 23-0, including a 7-0 record in the UFC. He has also beaten the former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael Dos Anjos, which happened before RDA captured UFC gold. As for Johnson, he recently got back on track, knocking out Dustin Piorier. It ended a two fight skid, where he was defeated by Nate Diaz and controversially Beneil Dariush. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Nurmagomedov. Although he has had more battles with injuries than opponents of late, he’s still one of the most superior lightweights on the planet. His grappling abilities are bar none and until someone can even win one round from him, it’s hard to see him losing ever. Johnson has solid wrestling and is one of the strikers in the Lightweight division. His power, speed, pace and aggressiveness can be hard to compete with. However, his aggressiveness plays right into Nurmagomedov’s game. One in which includes a heavy dose of grappling, which will eventually lead to dominate third round submission victory. 

     

    170 lbs.: Belal Muhammad vs. Vicente Luque – This might be one of the least recognizable fights on the card, as both men are relatively new to the promotion. Since debuting in July of 2016, Muhammad has already had two fights in the UFC, going 1-1. And even in defeat against Alan Jouban, Muhammad showcased ridiculous toughness and good striking abilities. As for Luque, the former Ultimate Fighter has won three straight fights. In each fight, he’s showcased improved striking and top notch submissions. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Muhammad. I mean, in his UFC debut, he took on Alan Jouban. He ate everything Jouban had to offer and came back in the later rounds strong, almost scoring the upset. On the feet, his striking combined with aggressiveness and pace makes him a tough out. Now Luque seems promising and is improving each fight, but if he can’t get this one to the floor, Muhammad will eventually overwhelm him. So with that, I have Muhammad via decision.
    185 lbs.: Tim Boetsch vs. Rafael Natal – An interesting fight in the Middleweight contest as both men are in need of a win to stay relevant. Tim Boetsch is coming off an impressive victory over the late Josh Samman, as he used his wrestling and vicious ground-and-pound to a tee. The win was much needed too, as Boetsch had dropped three straight prior and a pink slip had all but been awaiting for him. As for Natal, he dropped a decision to Robert Whittaker, halting a four fight win streak and a chance to crack the top ten. 

    As for a prediction, I have Natal. The New York based fighter is very well rounded and has fared well against some upper tier talent within the division. Boetsch on the other end is unpredictable, but often leans towards under performing or just being outmatched. His strength is grappling and grinding you down, but that’s not going to work against Natal who can specialize in that too. Natal however is much more of a capable striker than Boetsch, which is where I think he will take advantage of this fight and eventually land the third round knockout!

     

    UFC 205 “Prelims” Undercard On UFC Fight Pass (7 p.m. ET)

     

    155 lbs.: Thiago Alves vs. Jim Miller – Originally, Al Iaquinta was set to take on Thiago Alves, but that fell through due to contract disputes. Stepping in for Iaquinta, would be Jim Miller. The grizzled veteran has enjoyed a little career resurgence, winning two in a row. Miller also seeks his third win this year, which would be the first time he’s done that since 2010. As for Alves, injuries have plagued him of late, causing him to be out of action for over a year. His last fight came against Carlos Condit, in which he looked much improved in the first round before faltering in the second.

    As for a prediction, this is a tough call. For one Thiago Alves missed weight, as I don’t know how he expected to move from 170 lbs. to 155 lbs. with all that muscle. The weight cut issue could present issues if this fight were to go into the later rounds, but I don’t expect that. Now, I know Miller is one of the toughest fighters to step into that octagon, but his skills don’t compare. He doesn’t present any issues on the feet and his wrestling is mediocre, but if the fight does hit the mat, he does have wicked submissions and top control. Getting this fight there is possible, especially if Alves gasses out, but I’m going to go on a limb and say that Alves knocks Miller out in the first. Alves is going to be to big, his power is much more of threat and his kickboxing has always been sharp.
    135 lbs.: Liz Carmouche vs. Katlyn Chookagian – The last time Liz Carmouche stepped inside the octagon, was in April of 2015, where she defeated Lauren Murphy via decision. Her combatant Katyln Chookagin in that same span has been relatively active, winning six fights, including her UFC debut over said Lauren Murphy. 

    As for a prediction, it comes down to if Carmouche can get the takedown or if Chookagin can shrug away the take down attempts and keep this on the feet. I’m siding with the latter, as Chookagin’s ability to keep distance should disrupt Carmouche from getting inside. And while on the feet, Chookagin will pick away as the limited striking abilities of Liz Carmouche. So with that, I have Chookagin winning this via decision.

     

     

  • UFC Fight Night 98: Dos Anjos vs. Ferguson Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 98: Dos Anjos vs. Ferguson Predictions

    Image result for ufc fight night 98

    It’s been nearly a month since UFC 204, which was the last UFC event. In other words, it’s been an eternity, especially when as a fan you’ve been spoiled every week with UFC action. Now, there was supposed to be an event headlined by B.J. Penn and Ricardo Lamas on October 15th. The event obviously never took place, as it was cancelled after Penn pulled out of the bout via an injury.

    However, UFC action returns with a banger of a headliner featuring the former UFC Lightweight Champion Rafael Dos Anjos and Lightweight contender Tony Ferguson. Dos Anjos will be looking to redeem and catapult himself right back into the title picture, erasing his last defeat to Eddie Alvarez which cost him his title. Ferguson, heads into this bout on the heels of a robust eight-fight win streak. A win over Dos Anjos should all but guarantee a title shot.

    Co-Headlining the card is a UFC staple in Diego Sanchez, who welcomes promotional newcomer Marcin Held. Sanchez is coming off a TKO defeat to Joe Lauzon at UFC 200 and it would be fair to say, this is a do-or-die fight. Held, a longtime Bellator superstar, has a tough task in his UFC debut. It’s not a fight against a fellow newcomer or someone lower in the totem, it’s against someone who’s been in the biggest promotion since 2005.

    Anyways, let’s just get to the predictions!

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Rafael dos Anjos vs. Tony Ferguson – What an awesome main event! This fight has title implications written all over it, as the winner has to be in the mix. Dos Anjos, the former UFC Lightweight Champion is looking to quickly erase his last fight, which cost him his UFC title. Meanwhile, Ferguson looks to extend his win streak to nine, which aided with a victory over Dos Anjos should have him earning a title shot.

    Dos Anjos is one of the most complete fighters on the UFC roster and his striking, which really improved later in his career, has really been the addition that turned him into a Champion. His grappling abilities are superior and while on the ground, he can either ground-and-pound you to oblivion or submit you. Ferguson is a dynamic striker, with legit power in his hands. He prefers not to grapple, but he has very underrated abilities. Whether on his back or on top, he’s always active, punching you or trying to submit you with his long spider-like legs.

    As for a prediction, I’m really going back-and-forth with this one. On one end, I believe that Dos Anjos just has the cardio, pace, striking and grappling to wear you down and eventually finish you. He’s a cerebral fighter too, often fighting safe, while maintaining constant pressure and heavy striking volume. On the other end, you have Ferguson, who has an arsenal of ways to finish you. He’s flashy and at times unpredictable with his strikes. However, his striking defense can be non-existent and it’s shown in his last few fights, as he nearly was finished on various occasions. It’s the same reasons too, while I’m siding with Dos Anjos here. It’s the safer pick and I’m going to say Dos Anjos takes this via TKO in round five. 

    155 lbs.: Marcin Held vs. Diego Sanchez – When Joe Lauzon annihilated Diego Sanchez in 26 seconds, it really marked the first time I thought that Sanchez no longer has it anymore. Arguably you can point out that he’s been long gone, but he’s never actually been finished via strikes before. Sanchez has been known for perhaps having the greatest chin and being the most durable fighter, so for Lauzon to be the guy to put him away is scary. Now, his fellow combatant Marcin Held doesn’t pack a punch, which is a positive. However, Held is formidable on the feet and more so known for submission prowess. Sanchez has solid submission defense, so I’m not sure Held will have a route to victory there. Anyways, I’m less inclined to pick Sanchez due to his sometimes hesitant striking, but his ability to turn the tide in the third round is always something to think about. Hmm…I’m just going to side with Held.

    145 lbs.: Ricardo Lamas vs. Charles Oliveira – Great fight and one that makes much more sense for Lamas, then his original fight against B.J. Penn. In terms of rankings and moving up the Featherweight rankings, this fight does much more. Anyways, Lamas looks to get back into the win column, after running into the buzz-saw that is Max Holloway. Oliveira also is looking to turn around his fortunes, as he came up short in a barnburner fight against Anthony Pettis. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Lamas. Oliveira badly missed weight and I think he’s going to pay the longer this fight goes on, as the Mexico City elevation is going to eat him alive. Lamas is going to take advantage of that and finish Oliveira in the third round.

    155 lbs.: Martin Bravo vs. Claudio Puelles (TUF Latin America 3 Lightweight tournament final) – I haven’t watched a single episode of TUF Latin America 3, so shame on me here. We need a prediction though, so I’m going with Johnny Bravo…I mean Martin Bravo.

    155 lbs.: Beneil Dariush vs. Rashid Magomedov – This might be my favorite fight on the card. Both fighters share many common aspects in their fighting abilities, especially their technical approach. They are also very accomplished grapplers, so it’s anyone’s guess who exactly has the edge in this fight. However, I expect this fight to be contested on the feet and I favor Magomedov slightly. He’s a counter puncher, who’s striking output is very reliant on his opponents aggression. Dariush is technical and more pressure based, which plays into Magomedov’s style. It’s really a coin flip here, but I’m siding with Magomedov via decision.

    135 lbs.: Heather Jo Clark vs. Alexa Grasso – An Invicta standout, Grasso will be an excellent addition to a seemingly growing Strawweight division. Grasso has future champion potential, as her striking abilities are sharp and will only be sharpened as she gains more experienced. Clark, a TUF 20 alum, has been dealing with injuries for most of her UFC career. I mean, she’s only fought twice in the UFC since debuting in 2014. And while she’s better than her record indicates, she just doesn’t have the striking abilities to keep up with Grasso. Clark’s only route to winning is grappling, but I can she Grasso shrugging off her attempts. So with that, I have Grasso via decision.

    FOX Sports 1 “Prelims” (8 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Felipe Arantes vs. Erik Perez – This is a tough fight to call, as on one end you have a fighter capable of being better in Felipe Arantes. He too often has put himself in poor positions, costing himself fights. Perez on the other hand seemingly is improving every fight and is very well rounded. I would say his only fault is his willingness to getting into a brawl, in which his striking defense is thrown out the window. As for a prediction, I’m siding with Erik Perez. I expect this one to go to a decision and I’m going to take the hometown boy to get that favor!

    135 lbs.: Marco Beltran vs. Joe Soto – I’m going to side with the former Bantamweight contender Joe Soto. And although those circumstances came about oddly, he fought Dillashaw valiantly. It’s been a bumpy road since, but his bounce back victory over Chris Beal was sight of good things to come. Beltran is on the heels of a three-fight win streak, but they all came against bottom-tier talent. This is a step up and I’m not sure Beltran is ready to grab this opportunity by the horns. Soto via decision.

    170 lbs.: Max Griffin vs. Eric Montano – I’m siding with Griffin here via KO! I know he faltered against Colby Covington and was thoroughly outwrestled, but that’s just a testament of how good Covington is. If Montano can’t get this one to the ground, he’s going to get picked apart until the eventual knockout shot lands.

    135 lbs.: Henry Briones vs. Douglas Silva de Andrade – I’ve seen Briones fight before, but never Silva de Andrade. I hate it when that happens, but I wasn’t overly impressed Briones. so my hand is forced to pick Silva de Andrade via decision.

    Fight Pass “Prelims” (6:30 p.m. ET):

     
    185 lbs.: Sam Alvey (28-8, 5-3 UFC) vs. Alex Nicholson (7-2, 1-1 UFC) – Nicholson seems like a wild man, which plays right into Alvey’s technical counter punching. I can’t see how this ends any other way than a Alvey KO!
     
     

    155 lbs.: Marco Polo Reyes (6-3, 2-0 UFC) vs. Jason Novelli (11-2, 0-1 UFC) – If you haven’t seen Marco Polo Reyes against Dong Hyun Kim, do yourself a favor and check it out. Reyes is as tough as they come and is relentless on the feet, having the ability to end it with his legit power. Novelli is well rounded, but is no threat anywhere. I mean, I wasn’t overly impressed in his abilities against David Teymur, but that was his debut. Anyways, I got Reyes via TKO!

    145 lbs.: Chris Avila (5-3, 0-1 UFC) vs. Enrique Barzola (11-3-1, 1-1 UFC) – After losing to Artem Lobov at UFC 202, Avila has been given another opportunity. Avila was clearly out experienced and out matched against Lobov, which is again clear in this bout. Until Avila shows that he’s more than just tough, I’m going to side with Barzola to win her by decision.

  • UFC 204: Survivor Game

    Since I missed last week, I will be making two locks of the days and two upsets of the day. My Streak of 29 hangs in the balance!

    Anyways, if you don’t know what this post is all about, I’ll briefly fill you in. I can only select one fighter to be my lock of the week and that said fighter, can only be selected once this year (2016). I earn 1 point for a correct pick, however a wrong pick will reset me back to 0. I can add an additional 1 point to my total by picking an upset right, which does not reset my total if it’s wrong (That’s to make me look better). I will tweak this as we go!

     

    Streak: 20 (Lock of the Day) + 9 (Upset of the Day) = 29

     

    Lock of the Day: Mirsad Bektic

    Note: Bektic is a highly touted prospect and his opponent has lost three straight fights and is a late replacement. The odds are in my favor!

     

    Lock of the Day: Gegard Mousasi

    Note: While Belfort is one of the hardest outs in the first round, of late he’s been taken out in the first round. When put on his back, he’s wilted. Mousasi is a smart fighter and is going to piggyback off what Chris Weidman and Ronaldo Souza did to Belfort. Lock it in!

     

    Upset of the Day: Brad Pickett

    Note: This may not be the smartest pick, as Pickett likens to brawl rather than fight smart – it’s definitely not a bad one. I mean, he’s fighting in England, so I’ll take any close round hometown discounts. 

     

    Upset of the Day: Dan Henderson

    Note: C’Mon, it’s his last fight ever and his first shot at capturing UFC gold. At 46 years old the star have aligned and I really believe that he’s going to land that infamous H-Bomb. 

     

    Lock of the Day Picks (So Far):  Dominick Cruz, Paul Felder, Demian Maia, Kyoji Horiguchi, Robert Whittaker, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Mairbek Taisumov, Antonio Carlos Jr., Conor McGregor, (Tom Breese, Rustam Khabilov), Joseph Benavidez, Olivier Aubin-Mercier, John Makdessi, Will Brooks, T.J. Dillashaw, Tony Ferguson, Francis Ngannou, Nikita Krylov, Maryna Moroz, Tim Means, Chad Laprise, Alexander Gustafsson, Nik Lentz, Belal Muhammed, Cyborg Santos

    Upset of the Day Pick (So Far): Dan Henderson, Jessica Eye, Mauricio Rua, Antonio Silva, Edson Barboza, Court McGee, Timothy Johnson, Johnny Case, Deigo Sanchez, Martin Svensson, K.J. Noons, Patrick Cote, Derrick Lewis, Josh Stansbury, Brock Lesnar, Keita Nakamura, Gilbert Melendez, Francisco Rivera, Zak Cummings, Glover Teixeira, Jim Miller, Ilir Latifi, Urijah Faber, Uriah Hall, Paul Felder

     
  • UFC 204: Bisping vs. Henderson II Predictions

    UFC 204: Bisping vs. Henderson II Predictions

    Image result for ufc 204 poster

    It’s been 2,649 days since UFC 100, the event in which Dan Henderson iconically knocked out Michael Bisping. It’s a knockout that is often in every UFC highlight video, one in which has eaten away at Bisping. Now, over seven years later, Bisping is the UFC Middleweight Champion and Dan Henderson at 46 years old, is fighting for the only thing he’s never captured in his mixed martial arts career, UFC gold. 

    Co-Headlining the card, is Middleweight contenders in Vitor Belfort and Gegard Mousasi. Belfort, is looking to get back in the win column, after Ronaldo Souza thumped him in the very first round back at UFC 198. Meanwhile, Mousasi looks to build off a two-fight win streak and continue his climb in a very stacked Middleweight division.

    Also on the card, a very intriguing bout at 205 lbs., as hometown favorite Jimi Manuwa returns to the octagon against Ovince St. Preux. Anyways, let’s just get to the Predictions!

     

    UFC 204 Main Card:

    185 lbs.: UFC Middleweight Champion Michael Bisping vs. Dan Henderson – It’s a rematch between an unlikely Champion in Bisping and even unlikelier contender in the 46 year old Dan Henderson.

    Michael Bisping, holds a 19-7 record in the UFC and is coming off a shocking, yet very deserving knockout victory over then Champion Luke Rockhold. In a career that never amounted to a title shot, Bisping took advantage of a being a late replacement in a title fight against Luke Rockhold. The circumstances weren’t the greatest, especially given that Rockhold had already handily defeated Bisping before and the fact that it he only had so little time to prepare. However, Bisping rose to the occasion and captured UFC gold. He’s a well rounded fighter, that primarily looks to stand and use his superior cardio and volume striking.  

    Henderson, is 9-8 in the UFC and is one the greatest mixed martial artist on the planet. His legendary career includes simultaneously capturing the Pride Welterweight and Middleweight Championship, as well as winning the Strikeforce Light Heavyweight Championship. The only thing missing, is a UFC Championship and at 46 years old, he finally gets that opportunity. Henderson has also stated that this is his retirement bout. Primarily a striker, Henderson holds the keys to one of the greatest weapons on the planet – the right hand dubbed the H-Bomb. He’s also an Olympic wrestler, but he’s long forgoed using his wrestling.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Dan Henderson. I know that the safe pick is to go with Michael Bisping, but there’s something about this storyline that has me thinking Henderson caps off a legendary career with the only thing he’s never won, a UFC Championship. While Bisping will hold the speed advantage and will attack Henderson with volume, prior to his last fight, he’s got rocked against Thales Leites and Anderson Silva. His chin held up, but an H-Bomb is a different story and Bisping has known that since UFC 100. The last thing to go in a fighter is power, which is why I’m taking Henderson for conceivably the last time. So with that, I have Henderson via KO!

     

    185 lbs.: Gegard Mousasi vs. Vitor Belfort – An all important bout in the Middleweight division, as the victor catapults themselves into title contention.

    Mousasi, holds a 6-3 record in the UFC and has rallied off two straight victories in a row. The middleweight contender will be vying for his 40th mixed martial arts victory at the mere age of 31. Mousasi is one of the more well rounded fighters in the UFC and has really proven of late, that his striking is some of the very best in the division.

    Belfort, is 14-8 in the UFC and clearly is going to have a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame. Most recently, Belfort got dominated by Ronaldo Souza. However, the former UFC Light Heavyweight champion has maintained top contender status in the Middleweight division for over five years. In other words, don’t count out the Brazilian Blitzkrieg who would love for Mousasi to stay on the feet with him.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Gegard Mousasi. If there’s a recipe to defeat Vitor Belfort, it’s to put him on his back. It’s been rinsed and repeated by Chris Weidman and most recently Ronaldo Souza. Of course that first round and initial exchange plays heavily in the favor of Belfort, but Mousasi is a smart fighter and I’m sure will exploit Belfort’s weakness right away. So with that, I have Mousasi notching win number 40 via TKO. 

     
    205 lbs.: Ovince Saint Preux vs. Jimi Manuwa – A firecracker of a fight at 205 lbs., with a finish all but expected.

    Saint Preux, holds a 7-3 record in the UFC, most recently dropping a decision defeat to the pound for pound best Jon Jones. Beginning his UFC career with four straight victories, Saint Preux has of late fell on hard times. However, he’s still a contender in a relatively weak Light Heavyweight division. Saint Preux is an athletic monster, who has heavy hands and is a solid grappler.

    Manuwa, is 4-2 in the UFC, most recently feeling the wrath of Anthony Johnson’s power. A highly touted fighter entering the UFC, Manuwa reeled off three straight victories, all by TKO. However, a recent string of  injuries and lack of success have plagued his UFC career. Manuwa is a primarily a striker, who with 13 knockout victories to his name, has I guess some power.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Ovince St. Preux. The man is just an athletic freak and is very well rounded. Manuwa is a beast too, but his lack of fights of late and 36 years of age, I’m thinking we’ve seen his peak already. So with that, I’m going with OSP to win this fight via late submission.

     
    265 lbs.: Stefan Struve vs. Daniel Omielanczuk – A heavyweight clash between longtime UFC veteran Struve and a late replacement in Omielanczuk, who is looking to capture his biggest win to date

    Struve, holds a 11-6 record in the UFC and is coming off a 16 second victory over Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva. The victory was definitely satisfying, considering his previous bout was a snore-fest defeat to Josh Rosholt, in which he was taken down and slept on most of the time. Struve is a kickboxer and skilled grappler, who at 7 feet tall holds a 84.5 reach. In other words, the only way to defeat him, is to get inside. 

    Omielanczuk, is 4-2 in the UFC and has reeled off three straight victories. It’s a credit more so to Omielanczuk’s heart that he’s won three consecutive bouts, as in each fight he’s overcome adversity early. He’s not the most talented, but he wins on his “will” to win. Omielanczuk is a grinder, who relies on his opponents tiring.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Stefan Struve. He’s drastically better on the feet and if the fight hits the mat, I’m fairly confident that Struve holds the advantage on top or on the his back. Omielanczuk has surprised me thus far and Struve has suspect cardio, so anything is possible, but I think Struve is the better pick here. So with that, I have Struve via submission.

     
    145 lbs.: Mirsad Bektic vs. Russell Doane – I would break this one down, but then again, Doane steps into this on short notice and on the heels of a three-fight losing streak. I give him credit for stepping up with his UFC career on the line, but his wrestling isn’t going to save him against one of the UFC’s best prospects in Mirsad Bektic. So without further ado, I have Bektic late submission.

     

    UFC 204 “Prelims” On FOX Sports 1:

    135 lbs.: Brad Pickett vs. Iuri Alcantara – A pair of veterans collide in a bantamweight contest that potential have careers in the balance.

    Pickett, holds a 5-6 record in the UFC, most recently staving off a potential UFC pink slip by defeating Francisco Rivera. Had Pickett lost, it would of been four consecutive defeats. However, Pickett won and is looking to make it two straight. Primarily a striker, Pickett embraces the brawl, which more often than not eliminates his wrestling abilities.

    Alcantara, is 7-4 in the UFC and is most recently coming off a loss to rising talent Jimmie Rivera. When Alcantara arrived in the WEC, he knocked out Ricardo Lamas, creating a buzz about the potential bantamweight contender. He lived up to the expectations early in his UFC career, going 6-2, even looking impressive in defeat against Urijah Faber. However, Alcanatara is 1-2 since then. He relies heavily on leg kicks when standing and on the ground, either his vicious ground-and-pound or slick submissions create an outlet for victory.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Brad Pickett. While I favor Alcantara standing due to his leg kicks, when taken down, he’s shown that he can be subdued by a top heavy wrestler. Alcantara also fades in fights, while Pickett has shown to have great endurance. While the safe pick here is Alcantara, Pickett is fighting in his hometown and I expect any close rounds to go to him. So with that, I have Pickett via decision.

     
    135 lbs.: Davey Grant vs. Damian Stasiak – I don’t really know who Stasiak is, but I’m very well aware of the Ultimate Fighter 18 runner-up Davey Grant. Anyways, I’m going to once again side with the hometown favorite and pick Grant to take this via decision.

     
    170 lbs.: Leon Edwards vs. Albert Tumenov – A welterweight clash that features two up-and-coming talents. 

    Edwards, holds a 3-2 record in the UFC, but is 3-1 in his last four fights. His most notable UFC victory to date, came back at UFC Fight Night 64, when he knocked out Seth Baczynski. Edwards is good athlete with solid striking abilities. 

    Tumenov, is 5-2 in the UFC, most recently falling defeat to Gunnar Nelson. The defeat halted a five-fight win streak, one in which saw him nearly cracking the top ten at 170 lbs. Tumenov is a well rounded fighter and very much in every sense of the word, a prospect.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Tumenov. I believe that he’s just too solid everywhere to lose to Edwards. And while Edwards is a talented striker, I’d favor Tumenov at his own strength. Tumenov holds the power advantage and ability to take this fight wherever he wants. So with that, I have Tumenov via knockout!

     

     

    155 lbs.: Marc Diakiese vs. Lukasz Sajewski – I have little knowledge of both guys, so I’m not going to break this one down by any means. I’m just going to side with the hometown favorite Marc Diakiese, who is heading into this undefeated. So with that, I have Diakiese via knockout!

     

    UFC 204 “Prelims” On UFC Fight Pass:

    170 lbs.: Mike Perry vs. Danny Roberts – A welterweight contest, that should be heavily contested on the feet.

    Perry, holds a 1-0 record in the UFC, most recently making a successful debut fight against Hyun Gyu Lim at UFC 202 back in August. He’s primarily a striker, who has bombs in his hands. Just ask all eight of his opponents, who he’s knocked out. 

    Roberts, is 2-0 in the UFC, defeating the likes of Nathan Coy and Dominique Steele. The British fighter is well-rounded and more defensively sound than Perry’s last opponent Lim, who almost welcomed to be punched. Roberts is a good boxer, but also capable of taking the fight to the ground and submitting his opponent.

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Mike Perry. I really was impressed with his striking abilities in his debut, albeit his opponent Lim didn’t understand what striking defense was. Anyways, I haven’t been overly impressed with Roberts and I liken Perry’s power to be the factor in this fight, leading to another knockout victory. 

     
    155 lbs.: Adriano Martins vs. Leonardo Santos – An intriguing matchup in the lightweight division, as a pair of rising veterans look to continue their climb.

    Martins, holds a 4-1 record in the UFC, with the lone defeat coming way by Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. Of the four victories, he’s finished three of them, which in turn have awarded him bonuses in each. Martins is a BJJ black belt and a very well versed striker, who is noted for having legit power.

    Santos, is 4-0-1 in the UFC, most recently picking up a huge TKO victory over highly touted prospect Kevin Lee. The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 2 winner, is also a BJJ black belt and a counter striker. 

    As for a prediction, I’m going to side with Adriano Martins. I believe both have exceptional ground abilities, which most likely will cancel each other out, leading to what I foresee as a striking match. On the feet, I favor Martins, due to his powerful strikes. And despite Santos being a counter puncher and having not lost since May of 2009, I fully expect him to eventually crumble when he feels the power of Martins shots.