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  • Brock Lesnar Returns at UFC 200

    Brock Lesnar Returns at UFC 200

    Initially reported by MMAFighting.com, Brock Lesnar was finalizing a deal to return the octagon. I was skeptical, but when Ariel Helwani reports something, 99.9 percent of the time it’s valid. However, a small part of me still wasn’t satisfied, as we’ve heard this kind of news for the past four years.

    Then – during the UFC 199 PPV, the UFC dropped an absolute bomb of a promotional video for UFC 200. Watch till the very end, it will give you goosebumps!

    How on earth could this happen, doesn’t he have a contract with the WWE? 

    Crazy enough, the WWE allowed Brock Lesnar to have a one-off at UFC 200. After he competes, he will return to the WWE. How cool is this? And who would ever though A) Brock Lesnar would compete in the UFC again and B). The WWE would let him?

    As for an opponent…

    Now, Heavyweights that aren’t booked for a fight are;

    Mark Hunt – Logically makes sense, but I don’t think it’s a particularly good matchup for Lesnar. I’m sure it’s in the UFC and WWE’s interest that Lesnar has a somewhat favorable matchup.

     Frank Mir – Unfortunately Mir awaits an impending suspension, as he tested positive for an anabolic steroid. Mir claims his innocence, but that remain to be seen. A trilogy fight between the two, would have been golden for the UFC. And if you don’t recall, the two last locked horns at UFC 100.   

    Junior Dos Santos– Currently Dos Santos is rehabbing from shoulder surgery, so he’s out of the picture.

    Fedor Emelianenko (The Exception on the list!) – Ironically, Emelianenko’s next bout is on June 17th and will be aired on UFC Fight Pass. Also, his opponent is recent UFC departure, Fabio Maldonando. If he comes away unscathed and if he isn’t tied down contractually, the UFC should push hard to finally make this dream matchup come true.

    Stefan Struve – The Skyscraper has won two of his last three fight, recently only needing 16 second to dispose of Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva. I could see the UFC getting away with this fight, as the 7 foot Struve is not only a spectacle, but a worthy opponent.

    Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira – Despite being retired, I could slightly see this happening. I know he didn’t really want to retire – but losing three of your last four fights, the amount of miles on him after 46 professional fights and being 40 years old is a pretty clear sign. Would anyone even be interested in this though? He is a legend, but he’s not the same fighter he used to be.  

    Shane Carwin – After losing to Brock Lesnar at UFC 116, Carwin would only fight in the UFC one more time. As a late replacement for the injured Brock Lesnar, Carwin fought at UFC 131 against Junior Dos Santos. It would be an ugly beat down and while Carwin wanted to continue fighting, chronic injuries didn’t allow him. His hands were forced, as would retire. However, it’s been almost five years now since he stepped into the octagon. And, he says he’s ready to go and willing to fight Brock Lesnar at UFC 200. Why not?

    https://twitter.com/ShaneCarwin/status/739302326268088321

    If I were the UFC, I’d either push to get Mir innocence if he really claims innocence or put your money where your mouth is – and give us the Fedor Emelianenko fight. The Carwin rematch is interesting, but we are talking about a guy who’s back nagged him into retirement. Physically is able to fight? Other than that, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira would pit a legend against Brock. Maybe Struve gets it, but doubtful considering it’s a one off. I know I’m dodging it, but Mark Hunt makes a lot of sense logically – but no sense for Lesnar.

    Anyways, Lesnar will be on ESPN at 10am EST to discuss his return and potentially his opponent. Stay tuned!

  • UFC 199: Survivor Game

    Despite being a closer than I anticipated fight, Felder got the nod and extended my streak to 8! My upset pick was more of throw away, as I stated “take it with a grain of salt”. I knew exactly what was going to happen, especially in a night of upsets, I definitely dropped the ball that pick. 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: 5 (Lock of the Day) + 3 (Upset of the Day) = 8

    Lock of the Day: Dominick Cruz

    Note: Let’s get bold! Maybe…as Cruz is the favorite in the eyes of the oddsmakers. I agree with them, as it takes a special person to come back from layoff like Cruz did – fight the divisions best and beat them. He’s truly a champion and I don’t see his reign ending immediately and especially in this fight. Faber is legend in his own right, he’s had a successful run in he WEC and the UFC, but has never got over the hump in UFC title fights. I can’t see him beating Cruz, who’s virtually a ghost in there. His ability to make an opponent whiff, is mentally and physically draining. His volume and pace are next level. Cruz is going to retain here, lock it in!

    Upset of the Day: Dan Henderson

    Note: Why the hell not? Someone’s going to sleep and in the very first round. In MMA I’ve seen crazier things in this sport than a 45 year old turning back the clock. So, Henderson – the legend – is going to walk into that octagon and knock Hector Lombard out. It’s going to be vintage Henderson and afterwards, he’s going to leave his gloves in the Octagon, as a gesture and to let the world know he is retired. Let’s Go Hendo!

     

    Lock of the Day Picks (So Far) : Paul Felder, Demian Maia, Kyoji Horiguchi, Robert Whittaker, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Mairbek Taisumov, Antonio Carlos Jr., Conor McGregor, (Tom Breese, Rustam Khabilov), Joseph Benavidez

    Upset of the Day Pick (So Far): Jessica Eye, Mauricio Rua, Antonio Silva, Edson Barboza, Court McGee, Timothy Johnson, Johnny Case, Deigo Sanchez, Martin Svensson, K.J. Noons

  • UFC 199: Rockhold vs. Bisping II Predictions

    UFC 199: Rockhold vs. Bisping II Predictions

    The UFC returns for the second straight week, as they invade The Forum in Inglewood, California. Headlining the card is a rematch between Middleweight Champion Luke Rockhold and first time title challenger Michael Bisping. Originally, Luke Rockhold’s first title defense was to come against the man he took the belt away from, Chris Weidman. However, Weidman pulled out with a neck injury and in stepped Michael Bisping on two weeks notice. Fresh off beating Anderson Silva, Bisping is coming into this fight with momentum like never before. And despite being a heavy underdog, I believe we are in store for a better fight then anticipated. 

    Also on the card, a decade long rivalry will finally see it’s trilogy, as Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz takes on “The California Kid” Urijah Faber. In what could be MMA’s greatest rivalry, with the amounts of back and forth banter, we should be in store for a classic. Now, I wasn’t all for this rematch initially, as I didn’t feel Urijah Faber had quite warranted another title shot. But, the amount of trash talking and promotion for this fight has had me on the edge of my seat. 

    Some other notables on this stacked card include an all important 145 lbs. bout between Max Holloway and Ricardo Lamas. Holloway looks to make it eight nine straight wins and undoubtedly align himself for a title shot. At 185 lbs. we have a slugfest of a contest on our hands, as the legend Dan Henderson takes on Hector Lombard. I would not blink in this one, as I expect chaos in the opening round. At 155 lbs. the “King” returns as Bobby Green takes on Dustin Poirier in what be an exciting contest. Poirier is undefeated since he returned to the lightweight division, but to continue to climb the totem, he has to get through Green. Another fight I’m looking forward to is Brian Ortega against Clay Guida, which is going to have an unbelievable pace to it. Anyways, enough pre-fight build up talk…To the Predictions!

    UFC 199 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: UFC Middleweight Champion Luke Rockhold vs. Michael Bisping – First off, I couldn’t be more happy for Michael Bisping, as he finally gets his due – a title shot. It’s been ten years in the UFC and twenty five UFC fights later, but on two weeks notice Michael Bisping will step into the octagon to fight for a belt for the first time ever. As for the fight, I don’t think the odds do it favor. Yes, Rockhold has less miles on him and is the more skilled fighter, but Bisping features some of the best fight IQ in the UFC. If he stays on the outside, using his usual guerilla warefare like tactics, he certainly can frustrate Rockhold and drag it into the later rounds. As for Rockhold, he’s as skilled and well rounded as any mixed martial artist on the planet. It’s no fluke that he’s the UFC Middleweight Champion and he’s going to prove that in his first title defense. Albeit I think that Bisping is going to make this a fight, if Rockhold pressures Bisping, he can put him away early. Bisping has never dealt well with pressure and if you watch his last fight against Anderson Silva, everytime he was pressured to the fence, he was in trouble. Unfortunately too, he’s in trouble in this fight too, as I have Luke Rockhold retaining. It’s going to be a cat and mouse game for three rounds, but in the fourth Rockhold’s going to catch and finish Bisping. Rockhold via 4th round TKO!

    135 lbs.: UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz vs. Urijah Faber – This may be a trilogy fight, but the decade long rivalry is not going to come to an end after the fight concludes. These are just two fighters that will never see eye to eye, which in reality, makes a rivalry so special. As for the fight, this will be the first time Dominick Cruz has fought twice in the same year since 2011. It’s been a long road for the UFC Bantamweight Champion, as injuries have plagued his career and perhaps his peak period. His opponent, Urijah Faber has been winner throughout his career, just not when it comes to title fights. His UFC record in non-title fights is 9-1, with his only loss coming in a Featherweight bout against Frankie Edgar. Basically, he is undefeated in UFC non-title fights in the bantamweight division. In UFC title fights, his record is 0-3. He just can never get over the hump and I think that trend continues here. Dominick Cruz has the best footwork in the UFC, as he’s so darn elusive that you can’t hit him. I’d call him the Floyd Mayweather of the Octagon. Now, Faber is a gamer and is going to bring it, but if he can’t daze or knock out Cruz – I can’t see him winning via decision. Cruz is going to use his volume and footwork to pick apart Faber and I expect even throw and occasional takedown in there. How can you pick against someone who fought once in over fours years, then challenges and takes the belt from the best bantamweight at the time in T.J Dillashaw? So with that, I expect Cruz to cruise (See what I did there) his way to a decision victory.

    145 lbs.: Max Holloway vs. Ricardo Lamas – What a sick fight in the featherweight division, as Max Holloway looks to make it nine straight wins. His opponent, Ricardo Lamas will look to build off his victory over Deigo Sanchez. Before I dive into this, can Holloway get a title shot? Or are we going to keep an active champion who’s more interested in fighting out of his weight class then defending his belt? Anyways, I always knew that Holloway was special. Before his UFC debut, I told my cousin that this kid is going to be good. He reminds me of a combination between the Diaz brothers and Anthony Pettis. He would go on to lose that debut fight to the already established Dustin Poirier. Since then, he’s gone 11-2 and he’s still only 24 years old. As for Ricardo Lamas, the former title challengeris enjoying some success of late, winning three of his last four fights. He’s also seen this type of hype train before, as Dennis Bermudez was on a seven fight win streak heading into their bout. Lamas ended that streak in the very first round. As for the fight, I’m going to side with Holloway. His striking is elite and his grappling is good enough to fend off Ricardo Lamas. I’ve always though Lamas has all the tools to be a world champion if he sharpened up his striking, as it would really open his grappling strengths. Anyways, I have Holloway winning this via late TKO.

     
    185 lbs.: Dan Henderson vs. Hector Lombard – Can you say first round fireworks? The 45 year old legend Dan Henderson returns to the Octagon for perhaps his last fight. He’s got a tough task on his though, as he takes on the well rounded and heavy handed Hector Lombard. Henderson has hit a rough patch in his career, as he’s dropped six of his last eight fights. He’s also been finished in his last four fights, which worries health-wise and what could come about in this fight. His counterpart, Lombard was once regarded as the best middleweight on the planet. However, his run in the UFC hasn’t been quiet up to par with that statement. He’s gone 3-3 with one no contest in his UFC tenure, so this fight is really important for his career. Now, he’s moving back up to Middleweight, which could be due to how hard the weight cut to 170 lbs. was on him. He looks less drawn out and much healthier as a Middleweight. As for the fight, it’s a toss up. Oddsmakers might favor Hector Lombard, but you have too flat footed fighters who stand and bang. Lombard is more explosive and has more tools in his tools chest – but I can’t pick against Dan Henderson. I refuse to, so take this with a semi grain of salt, but I predict that Dan Henderson will win by KO!

    155 lbs.: Bobby Green vs. Dustin Poirier – This fight is straight fire, as we can expect and all out war. These two men have been chirping back and forth, so I’m interested to see if any of them are interested to even grapple. In the past 18 months, Green has been inactive due to injuries and personal tragedies. It’s been a rough patch for Green, so it’s good to see get back into the Octagon. His counterpart, Dustin Poirier is on a tear since moving back up to the Lightweight division. He’s finished the likes of Carlos Deigo Ferreira and Yancy Medieros in the first round and decisively defeated Joe Duffy. As for this fight, I’m more obliged to side with Poireira who has clear momentum and unlike Green, has been active. However if Green could just stop mocking his opponents and fight, the man could truly be a title contender one day. He’s top notch in the stand up department and he’s an excellent wrestler, despite rarely using it. Ughh, I’m going to predict that…Green wins via split decision. 

    UFC 199 FOX Sports 1 Prelims (8 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Cole Miller vs. Alex Caceres – This fight went from B.J. Penn against Dennis Siver to B.J. Penn against Cole Miller to finally Cole Miller against Alex Caceres. It’s a really bummer that B.J. Penn was pulled from the card, as I was really intrigued to see what his time at Jackson-Winks had done to him as a fighter. Anyways, this fight is still a good despite all the changes. Cole Miller isn’t the best striker, but his reach can give any fighters fits. His grappling is his strength, as once he gets those long limbs on you – it’s going to be a short night. His opponent, Alex Caceres is a striker that seems to have all the potential to be something special, but always fails expectations. He once was on a four fight win streak and then all the sudden, he lost three in a row. But, he’s back in the Featherweight division and is coming off a win. I think he makes it two in a row, as he avoid Miller’s grappling and outpoints him on the feet. I got Caceres via decision. 

    145 lbs.: Clay Guida vs. Brian Ortega – Awesome matchmaking, as this might be my favorite fight on the card. The pace is going to be up tempo, with tons of action on the feet and the ground. Clay Guida is looking to get back in the win column, as well as apparently keep the win-loss pattern he’s had going since 2013. In all seriousness, Guida is a true veteran of the sport. He’s been around since 2003, has fought 48 times and was once the Strikeforce Lightweight Champion. This fight though, has all the elements of a “Changing of the Guard”. His opponent, Brian Ortega is one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC. Whatever cloth the Diaz brothers were cut from, Ortega was as well. He comes to fight and is comfortable wherever the bout may go. He might be the most active fighter off his back in the UFC, as he will continuously punch you or look for submission attempts. Also, although he’s dubbed T-City, you might as well call him “The Comeback Kid”. In his fights against Thiago Tavares and Deigo Brandao, he was arguably losing both fights before pulling off third round finishes. As you can tell I’m pretty giddy about the kid and unfortunately for Guida, it’s going to be Ortega’s night. His volume is going to reign supreme, as I’m going to predict that the Scarecrow, I mean Cillian Murphy, I mean Brian Ortega will win via decision in your “Fight of the Night”. 

    155 lbs.: Beneil Dariush vs. James Vick – Will this be the fight that James Vick finally earns some respect? The dubbed Texecutioner is undefeated and a perfect 5-0 in the UFC. He starched a top prospect in Jake Matthews and yet finds himself on the prelims still. His opponent, Beneil Dariush is a talent at Lightweight. Despite a setback against Michael Chiesa, Dariush has still won five of his last six fights and is top ten material in my book. Vick is a gritty and tough striker, who favors the use of volume and pressure to take out his opponents. Dariush is a cerebral assassin, who will pick you apart with technical striking. His grappling abilities are elite too, which is going to be a very big issue for Vick to overcome. In fact, it’s going to lead to his demise in this fight. I believe that Dariush will frustrate Vick on the feet, take him down and dominate him in top control. With that, I have Dariush winning via submission.

    115 lbs.: Jessica Penne vs. Jessica Andrade – In this bout, Jessica Andrade is dropping down from the Women’s bantamweight division (135 lbs.). That’s a ridiculous 20 pounds, which I expect to play a very big role cardio-wise in this fight. As for her opponent, Penne hasn’t fought in nearly year, so there could be some rust. Her last fight was a brutal one, as she took on Strawweight Champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk and despite losing, showed incredible heart and toughness. As for this fight, I like Penne. She may not be be great on her feet, but she has the length and reach to frustrate Andrade. Penne also is an awesome grappler and finds comfort on bottom or top. Her long legs are such an advantage, whether being used to sweep an opponent or submit them. So with that, I’m going to predict that Penne will win via submission.

    UFC 199 Fight Pass Prelims (6 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Tom Breese vs. Sean Strickland – Tom Breese is one the most talented up and up and coming fighters in the Welterweight division. However, his last fight against Keita Nakamura left a bitter taste in my mouth. He didn’t show the talent I saw in his first two UFC fights, especially the one where he dismantled Cathal Pendred. Now, Sean Strickland is no world beater, but the volume he outputs is often enough to beat his opponents. I also like his grappling ability and ground and pound when he’s in top control. This is a tough fight to call, but I’m going to predict that Sean Strickland edges out Tom Breese via split decision. 

    205 lbs.: Luiz Henrique da Silva vs. Jonathan Wilson – This fight pits two fairly raw light heavyweights, both looking to go 2-0 in the UFC. Luiz Henrique da Silva is coming off a triumphant UFC debut, as he showed toughness and pure heart. After getting tee’d off in round one, da Silva weathered the storm and won by TKO in the second round over Ildemar Alcantara. His opponent, Jonathan Wilson only needed 50 seconds in his UFC debut, dismantling Chris Dempsey via knockout. I think the UFC might have something special with Wilson too, as he has legit power and is very athletic. We all know, the UFC Light Heavyweight division could use and influx of talent, so this could be the blossoming of a talent. Anyways, someone’s O has to go in this one and I think it’s going to be da Silva’s. Wilson is gifted and his nickname “Johnny Bravo” is absolutely amazing. So with that, I got Wilson via KO.

    185 lbs.: Kevin Casey vs. Elvis Mutapcic – Isn’t it ironic how Kevin Casey’s nickname is the King and he’s fighting Elvis, who’s also the King. In my opinion, that’s matchmaking at it’s finest by the UFC! As for the fight, I am more to enticed to pick Elvis Mutapcic. Kevin Casey is an absolute monster for round one, but after that, his cardio is non existent. Mutapcic is boxer, who has good takedown defense and serviceable cardio enough to outpoint Casey in the later rounds. So with that, I have Mutapcic via decision. 

    155 lbs.: Dong Hyun Kim vs. Marco Polo Reyes – If you’re thinking “Stun Gun” dropped down to lightweight, you’d be incorrect. If you’re thinking the popular pool game Marco Polo is based off Marco Polo Reyes, you’d also be incorrect. If you’re thinking I know very little about these guys, you’d actually be correct. Mini-DHK via decision. 

  • UFC Fight Night 88: Survivor Game

    Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop! UFC 198 proved to be a great day for me, as Maia had no issues like I thought and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua eeked out a split decision victory. I’m up to 7 now and I’m going to in my next post, have a list of fighters I selected so far to ensure I’m not using the same fighter more than once.  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: 4 (Lock of the Day) + 3 (Upset of the Day) = 7

    Lock of the Day: Paul Felder

    Note: Paul Felder is such a dynamic striker and his opponent Burkman is just a tough and gritty veteran. Unfortunately for Burkman, I’m not sure he’s durable enough to take the amount of body kicks that Felder is going to unload. And, as the fight goes on, Burkman’s cardio has been super suspect. So, body shots plus bad cardio = A TKO victory for Felder. Lock it in!

    Upset of the Day: Jessica Eye

    Note: I wish I was more confident in this pick if Sara McMann was an elite wrestler, super athletic and physically imposing. Eye has struggled with wrestler and McMann is one of the best the division has to offer. The one thing that Eye has over McMann, is being a pure fighter. McMann just doesn’t seem like she can tap into her potential, as she’s capable of beating anyone in my opinion. Anyways, take this one with a grain of salt…

  • UFC Fight Night 88: Almeida vs Garbrandt Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 88: Almeida vs Garbrandt Predictions

    After a stacked UFC 198 card in Brazil, the UFC returns nearly two weeks later for a UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas. In my opinion, this UFC Fight Night card is stacked and underrated. Now, it has no where near the drawing power when talking about “names” as UFC 198 had, but stylistically it has some barn burners on it. Headlining the card, are two undefeated prospects in the form of Thomas Almeida and Cody Garbrandt. It’s a fight where someone’s O has to go, which is unfortunate given that one of these rising talents is going have their first setback. However, the winner will undoubtedly no longer be dubbed a prospect, but instead – a contender.  

    Also on the card, is a firecracker of of a fight, as former UFC bantamweight champion Renan Barao makes his Featherweight debut against the heavy hitting Jeremy Stephens. Both look to get back into the win column, as well climb the ranks in the featherweight division. At 170 lbs., Rick Story looks to make a successful return after a neck injury plagued him for nearly a year and a half. In his way, is the “Sponge” Tarec Saffiedine, who looks to build off his win over Jake Ellenberger at UFC on Fox 18. Another fight at 170 lbs. I can’t wait for is Lorenz Larkin against Jorge Masvidal. This has fight of the night written all over and I suggest not to miss this one! Also on the Fight Pass prelims, bantamweight contender Aljamain Sterling looks to make his case for a title shot, as he faces veteran Bryan Caraway. There’s a few other really awesome fight, but let’s just get to the Predictions!

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

    135 lbs.: Thomas Almeida vs. Cody Garbrandt – O Baby! What’s better than two undefeated, rising prospects that love to go toe to toe with their opponents? I’ll answer that for you (since you can’t), nothing. Almeida will look to continue his fast rise in the bantamweight division and make Garbrandt his 22nd victim. At the age of 24 and only four fights in the UFC, Almeida has also collected four “Bonus” checks from the UFC. That’s pretty remarkable and I assure you that with his talent, expect more and even a run at Joe Lauzon’s record 13 UFC bonuses. Anyways, as for Garbrandt, he will look to make it four straight victories and prove that he is a legit threat in the bantamweight division. Stylistically, this fight is going to be epic. Both guys are primarily strikers, so you should expect to see this one take place the majority on the feet. However, Garbrandt does have a wrestling background which could aid in slowing down Almeida. But, I don’t think so. Almeida is starting to get technical and precise, which is an issue for anyone given the power and diversity in his strikes. Garbrandt is game and as tough as they come, but Almeida to me feels like the second coming of Renan Barao. I also think that Almeida has fought tougher competition and passed with flying colors. If Garbrandt had fought John Lineker like he was scheduled too and smoked him, my tune would of immediately changed. However, that fight never came to fruition and I’m going to side with Almeida here via TKO!

    145 lbs.: Renan Barao vs. Jeremy Stephens – What a sick co-main event, as Renan Barao returns after to action after nearly year. Barao, the former UFC bantamweight champion will be making his featherweight debut against a very stiff test in Stephens. Since dropping down to featherweight, Stephens has had a mixed bag of success. He won three straight, before losing to Cub Swanson in a barn burner of a fight. He would drop a decision a to Charles Oliveira, pull out an insane flying knee KO on Dennis Bermudez and then lose a decision in a lackluster fight to Max Holloway. Obviously, Stephens has fought some of the best fighters the featherweight division has to offer, but when the competition rose, he faltered. Even the Bermudez fight that he won, before the flying knee knockout, he was getting decisively outworked. He has some of the best power in the UFC, but seems very hesitant to me at times and often wings punches with no setup. His opponent Barao isn’t hesitant and is often precise with his punches. Sure, it’s been a rough two years for Barao, but I really like the weight class change and this matchup. Expect Barao to stay out of the pocket and use heavy dose of leg kicks to slow down the movement of Stephens. I also still think has the power to put anyone away, even at featherweight and against a gritty and durable fighter like Stephens. What I’m saying is, I got Barao via TKO!

    170 lbs.: Rick Story vs. Tarec Saffiedine – Super fun fight in the welterweight division, as Rick Story is finally back. It’s been nearly a year and half since he beat the touted prospect Gunnar Nelson. It’s really a shame too that he got hurt, as a climb in the division after a victory like that was imminent. However, that’s in the past and he presently has a tough task in the form of Tarec Saffiedine. A decorated striker and more famously known for being the last Strikeforce Champion, Saffiedine will look to make it two straight victories. The fight should be a good one and I’m actually conflicted in a prediction here. I think if we see the Story that showed up to fight Gunnar Nelson, he’s got this. If not and if he’s “rusty”, Saffiedine will have no issues at picking apart Story via his infamous leg kicks. Ughh, this is tough, but I’m going to side with Story here. He mixes it up well, striking and wrestling enough to keep Saffiedine from implementing his heavy striking game. I think we see Story pushing Saffiedine to the cage, grinding away at him en route to a decision victory. 

    185 lbs.: Chris Camozzi vs. Vitor Miranda – I love Camozzi and his willingness to step into the cage twice against Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza. Both time obviously did not end well for Camozzi, but the second one earned him his second stint in the UFC. One in which has him on a two fight win streak, as he beat both Tom Watson and Joe Riggs. As for Miranda, he’s been handing out a dosage of TKO’s in a three fight streak he’s got going. Most impressively, he beat Clint Hester, who I’ve always thought was going to be a top talent. That’s for another day though, so as for fight, I’m going to side with Miranda. I mean, Camozzi has the volume and pace to keep Miranda off his game…and to think of it, Miranda isn’t the most elusive fighter. However, Camozzi also is super hittable and the difference is, Miranda packs a punch. With that, I got Miranda to keep the TKO train rolling.

    170 lbs.: Jorge Masvidal vs. Lorenz Larkin – This might be my favorite fight of the night, as Larkin’s dynamic striking will be put to the test against one of the most game fighters on the planet in Jorge Masvidal. Since the drop to 170 lbs. Larkin is 2-1, with two TKO victories. I must admit, I was glad that UFC gave him another chance after he dropped three straight in the middleweight division, as it’s clear that he is super talented. As for the fight, this is a super tough one to call, but I like Masvidal here. He has the experience, has fought basically everyone and is super well rounded. He has the ability to stand with Larkin and pressure him or mix in a takedown and use his top notch grappling abilities. I just think he has too many tools in the toolbox to succumb to Larkin’s heavy striking game. So with that, I got Masvidal via decision!

    155 lbs.: Josh Burkman vs. Paul Felder – This fight has the ability to be fight of the night, but that hangs on the durability of Josh Burkman. His body is going to get brutalized with kicks and I’m just not sure he can counter the dynamic striking of Paul Felder. Even if finds a way to make this interesting, his gas tank empties about mid-way through the second. Felder has cardio, a pace and volume that is going to have this looking like a one-sided beat down. With that, Felder via TKO in round one. 

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

    135 lbs.: Jessica Eye vs. Sara McMann – An awesome fight in the women’s bantamweight division, as well as a career dependent one if you ask me. Both women have lost three of their last four fights and enter this one on the heels of a two fight losing streak. A win here is much needed for both competitors, as it wouldn’t surprise me to see the loser get a pink slip. Jessica Eye is primarily a striker and would love to keep this one on the feet, although Sara McMann has some legit power in her hands. McMann will look to use her wrestling to take Eye down and keep her there, which has been a recipe that Eye’s opponents have found success in. I’m back and forth with this pick because on one hand, Sara McMann is stylistically a bad fight for Eye. She’s got unreal strength, has an Olympic silver medal in wrestling and insanely athletic to boot. Eye is a striker, who finds ways to get herself into trouble and it’s unfortunate because I really think she’s a talent. I’ll stop the mooching and say that, McMann wins via decision. 

    155 lbs.: Abel Trujillo vs. Jordan Rinaldi – This fight might be brutal, well only for the late replacement Jordan Rinaldi. I give him credit for stepping in to face one the hardest hitters on the planet, who also happens to be ridiculously athletic. I will go no further than that, as Trujillo should easily win this via KO.

    185 lbs.: Alberto Uda vs. Jake Collier – Disappointment doesn’t even utter the words I have for Jake Collier’s UFC run. I mean, I’m not even sure what martial art he excels at… Anyways, I don’t really know much about Uda, except that he’s physically strong and has a brutal clinch game. Add that with training at Nova Uniao and I’m siding with him to win via TKO!

    155 lbs.: Erik Koch vs. Eric Campbell – It’s been a little more then two years since Koch was in the octagon, so I’m interested to see if “ring rust” plays a factor here. As for his opponent, it’s in the form of the Canadian kickboxer Shane Campbell who is filling in for Joe Proctor. Campbell is in desperate need of win, especially considering that the lightweight division features the most fighters on the UFC roster. A loss here would spell trouble, but I actually think he gets the job done. I mean, Koch was once supposed to face Jose Aldo for the title on two different occasions. That was over three years ago! Also, Koch has lost three of his last four fights. Combine that with the two year layoff and there’s no way I can pick him. Campbell via TKO.

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

    135 lbs.: Aljamain Sterling vs. Bryan Caraway – Finally, after all the wait and the words spattered back and forth, these two will finally lock horns. The veteran Bryan Caraway looks to build off his decision victory over Eddie Wineland last July, as well as end the undefeated Aljamain Sterling’s rise in the bantamweight division. Sterling looks to add another name to the resume, as he makes his claim for a title shot. In my opinion, Sterling is on another level and should be able to dictate where this fight goes. The only things I see on Caraway’s side, is his fight experience and ability to make a fight ugly. However, Sterling’s leg kicks should keep Cararway off beat and I truly believe that if Sterling wants it on the ground, his wrestling and top control will override any of the slick submissions Cararway might throw at him. So with that, my prediction is that Sterling will win and surprisingly via submission.

    265 lbs.: Chris De La Rocha vs. Adam Milstead – This reminds me of the movie “Here Comes the Boom”, as Chris De La Rocha made his UFC debut last year at the age of 36. Unlike the movie though, De La Rocha lost and via TKO in 48 seconds. I once again expect him to lose, via TKO…

     

     

  • Demetrious Johnson set to defend title against Wilson Reis at UFC 201

    Demetrious Johnson set to defend title against Wilson Reis at UFC 201

    Demetrious Johnson looks to defend his title for the 9th consecutive time, as flyweight contender Wilson Reis steps up to the plate. It just goes to show, that the “The Ultimate Fighter 24” is definitely something that the division desperately needs. Not only will the winner of TUF 24 earn a title shot against Demetrious Johnson, but the influx of talent that will be enriched into the division is just as important. I mean, Wilson Reis is certainly a contender, but it’s not like he’s earned the title shot. He’s 3-2 in his last five fights, is coming off a win to Dustin Ortiz and is ranked #8 in mine and the UFC’s rankings. However, the way Johnson has cleared out the division, guys have been rushed into title shots. And, at least for me, this reminds me of the Chris Cariaso matchmaking. 

  • Bellator 154: Davis vs. King Mo Prediction

    Bellator 154: Davis vs. King Mo Prediction

    The SAP center in San Jose, Calfornia will play host to Bellator 154. Headlining the card is arguably the best Light Heavyweight fight outside the UFC, as Phil Davis takes on Muhammad “King Mo” Lawal. Unfortunately, this fight will most likely be overlooked, due to the fact that on the same night is the stacked UFC 198 card. However, I’m sure the hardcore fans will find time to tune into the main event. Anyways, I’m only going to predict the Main Event, as I have little to no knowledge of most of the fighters on the card. So with that, On to the Predictions!

    Main Card: 8:00 P.M. EST

    205 lbs.: Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal vs. Phil Davis

    As I stated, this is the best Light Heavyweight matchup outside the UFC. It’s also a fight I can get behind, as Bellator lately has been really hitting the “Freak show fights” hard. It’s been getting them views, but for all the wrong reasons. The fights I want to see, are featuring true talent like Phil Davis and King Mo.

    Anyways, Phil Davis looks to keep his perfect 2-0 record in Bellator in tact, as well as earn a title shot against Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Liam McGeary. Trying to stop that from happening, will be King Mo, who is currently riding a seven fight win streak. Most recently, King Mo participated in a light heavyweight tournament for Rizin. King Mo swept through the competition, even defeating two fighters on the same night to be crowned the tournament winner. 

    As for the fight, I give King Mo the edge. I think as far as wrestling, it’s dead even. However, when it comes to striking, Davis is just mediocre. He doesn’t have the power to put you away, despite his most recent win coming via knockout. I mean it was his third career victory via knockout and first in more than seven years. Meanwhile, King Mo has thirteen career knockout victories and four in the last two years. There’s an obvious striking and power advantage to King Mo. The only thing that Phil Davis has working for him, is his athleticism and if can somehow manage to get this fight to mat. He’s a far superior on the ground and has a dynamic submission game. However, will he get it there? I think not, which is why I am going to predict that King Mo will edge out Phil Davis via decision.

  • UFC 198: Survivor Game

    I’m on some streak now! I absolutely loved Kyoji Horiguchi against Neil Seery, as he is just above and beyond better than the veteran. Seery is a tough dude, but Horiguchi is elite in my opinion. Let’s not talk about my upset pick though, as Struve absolutely starched Antonio Silva. I rarely say this too, but I hope Silva retires. 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: 3 (Lock of the Day) + 2 (Upset of the Day) = 5

    Lock of the Day: Demian Maia

    Note: I don’t love this fight at all for Matt Brown, as it’s no secret that grapplers have been his achilles heal. So, you agree to fight one of the best? Ehh…Maia should take Brown down and keep him down, most likely submitting him at point. Lock it in!

    Upset of the Day: Mauricio “Shogun” Rua

    Note: This is do or die for Shogun, as he desperately needs a win to prove that he’s still a force in the light heavyweight division. His task in fighting a more athletic wrestler with decent striking certainly spells trouble. However, I’m going to side with the veterans experience and the power he packs is enough to upset Corey Anderson. I’m not entirely confident, but I don’t think it’s that far stretched of a pick either.

  • UFC 198: Werdum vs. Miocic Predictions

    UFC 198: Werdum vs. Miocic Predictions

    The UFC returns for second straight week, as Curitiba, Brazil hosts a stacked UFC 198 card. Headlining is UFC Heavyweight Champion Fabricio Werdum, who looks to defend his title against challenger Stipe Miocic. I’ll admit, I’m excited for this fight, but I’m more excited to see the Heavyweight Championship finally be defended. It’s a championship that’s only been fought for five times in over three years and that’s including an interim title fight between Fabrico Werdum and Mark Hunt. It’s long overdue and I would ideally like to see the division get rolling. But then again, I realize that the Heavyweight division features some of the oldest active fighters and the chances of getting injured are higher.

    Anyways, Fabricio Werdum will look defend the UFC Heavyweight Championship for the first time. It will be around eleven months since he captured gold against Cain Velasquez, so you have to wonder if he will have a little rust on him. His challenger Stipe Miocic will look continue the trend in the Heavyweight Division, as the title has changed hands more times in the last five years (4 times) than in any other division in that same span. He is currently riding a two fight win streak, in which he finished both Mark Hunt and Andrei Arlovski in pure domination. It really should be an exciting Heavyweight Title fight, as they usually are.

    Also on the card, is an all important middleweight contest between Vitor Belfort and Jacare Souza. The winner of the fight will undoubtedly be in the mix in an increasingly crowded middleweight division. At a catchweight of 140 lbs. Cris “Cyborg” Santos  will make her UFC debut against Leslie Smith, in which should make for an entertaining and chaotic first round. At 205 lbs. the legend Mauricio “Shogun” Rua returns in a “changing of the guard fight” against up and comer Corey Anderson. This is a big opportunity for Anderson to not only add a name to his resume, but really catapult himself into the top ten of the division. At 170 lbs. Demian Maia takes on Matt Brown in an all important fight, as a win here would inch Maia closer to a title shot. AND, to think Anderson Silva was on this card before pulling out due to surgery needed on his gall bladder is insanity! I mean, the fight card is just ridiculous and there are too many more fights to list, so let’s just get to the Predictions!

    UFC 198 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: UFC Heavyweight Champion Fabricio Werdum vs. Stipe Miocic – UFC Heavyweight action is always the toughest to predict, given the amount of power they generate on their punches. If we are talking about power, Miocic holds that advantage. However, Werdum is the more diverse fighter, as he implements some of the best kicks and knees in the division. On the ground, it’s no secret that Werdum will hold a very comfortable advantage.  I mean stylistically, Werdum is just about a nightmare for almost any fighter. He is capable in the striking department, showing vast improvement and diversity among his strikes in every fight. If you attempt to take him down, you either are in a guillotine ala Cain Velasquez OR you enter perhaps the most dangerous guard in mma (*Cough, ended Fedor Emelianenko 27 fight win streak). The only way you avoid Werdum is to be a boxer like Stipe Miocic and use your athleticism and patience to technically pick him apart. BUT, we’ve seen Werdum handle something similar to that in Travis Browne no? I’m not saying Browne and Miocic are exactly the same, but Werdum is such a veteran that has seen and faced it all. And, with that, I’m going to predict that Werdum will defend his UFC Heavyweight Championship via submission. I just think that Miocic will be hesistant and limited to just striking, as his wrestling is left on the backburner due to avoiding Werdum’s guard at all cost. CAN’T WAIT THOUGH!

    185 lbs.: Ronaldo Souza vs. Vitor Belfort – An all important fight in the middleweight division, as Belfort looks to build off his knockout victory over Dan Henderson and get back into the title picture. As for Souza, he looks to rebound from a controversial loss to Yoel Romero, which ended an eight fight win streak and a possible title shot. Without TRT, Belfort only has a few blitzkriegs to get the job done. He’s got tremendous speed and power to always have a chance. Unfortunately those advantages are always dampened by the lack of cardio. On the other hand, Souza has cardio, is a freak athletically and has shown the ability to get cracked, survive and rally back. The chances Belfort win this comes within the first two minutes and I just won’t take those odds. I think Souza will avoid Belfort’s power and eventually grind him down. So, I predict Souza will win via second round submission and possibly align himself for a number one contenders fight against either Michael Bisping or a rematch against Yoel Romero.

    140 lbs.: Cris Cyborg vs. Leslie Smith (catchweight) – Leslie Smith has balls and really big one’s for the matter. I mean, who the hell is signing up to fight a literal juggernaut? My guess is that only Leslie Smith jumped at the opportunity and it’s going to be a chaotic and whirlwind of a first round. The phrase “Don’t Blink” is often thrown around, but seriously it doesn’t fit anymore perfect than this. Smith is a gritty fighter who will take a punch to give a punch. Unfortunately that style isn’t conducive in this bout, as one punch by Cyborg could mean goodnight. And, I’m going to side with that last notion and say that Cyborg will TKO Smith within the first round.

    205 lbs.: Mauricio Rua vs. Corey Anderson – As I stated before, this is a “Changing of the guard fight”. We got a legend in Mauricio “Shogun” Rua facing an up and comer in Corey Anderson. As far as I’m concerned, this is also a last stand for Shogun. He’s won only two of his last six fights and has been knocked out in his last two losses. On the other hand, the TUF 19 winner Corey Anderson has been climbing the ranks quickly and is a win over Shogun from cracking the top ten. Anderson is athletic, has excellent cardio, is a top notch wrestler and his striking keeps getting better by the fight. Shogun isn’t athletic, doesn’t have the cardio he once had, isn’t a wrestler, but still can grapple and strike. He has the power to put away Anderson and this might surprise people, but I’m going to side with veteran. I like fighters in do or die situations and I think we are going to see a reinvented Shogun. One who is going to light up Anderson on the feet and avoid takedowns. I may be dreaming, but I’m going to predict that Shogun will win via first round knockout.

    170 lbs.: Bryan Barberena vs. Warlley Alves – Bryan Barberena might as well be called the stepping stone, as he goes from upsetting Sage Northcutt to now fighting another rising talent in Warlley Alves. Call me crazy, but I think he pulls this one out too. Alves is a talent, there’s no doubt about it. He’s got power, a knack for submissions and has underrated fight IQ. The one thing that has plagued Alves, is his pace and cardio.  It’s something that Barberena excels at and I could see Alves dominating in the first round. However, mid-way into the second round when Alves begins to tire, look for the tide to change. I believe this fight is similar to that of Matt Brown against Stephen Thomson. And, with that I’m going to predict Bryan Barberena will once again shock and defeat Warlley Alves via split decision.

    UFC 198 FOX Sports 1 Prelims (8 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Demian Maia vs. Matt Brown – I’m going to be brief here, as I think this is a no brainer and I just wonder why Brown would even consider taking this fight (Besides the fact that he is a complete badass). Stylistically, this extremely favors Maia, as Brown has always had issues with grapplers. I see no different here, as Maia is one of the best jui jitsu practitioners and has one of the most smothering top games I’ve ever seen. On the other hand, Brown is a slugger and not technical, which I firmly believes he needs to be in order to win this. His aggression plays right into Maia’s grappling, which is going to make for a fast night. So, with that, I have Maia via submission in the very first round. 

    155 lbs.: Yancy Medeiros vs. Francisco Trinaldo – Yancy Medeiros is coming off his best win in the UFC, as he edged out John Makdessi via split decision. He’s also won three of his last four fights, which was certainly needed after he started 0-2 in the UFC. However, his opponent Francisco Trinaldo is on a quiet tear, as he’s won five straight. I find this matchmaking odd too, given Trinaldo had defeated Chad Laprise and then Ross Pearson. It appeared like there was some progression in the matchmaking, but this kind of halts that. I also believe that Trinaldo should have no issues with Medeiros. He’s a far superior grappler and has shown to be dangerous on the feet as well. Medeiros is just a striker, who is as tough as they come, but has wilted to grapplers. And, that’s exactly what Trinaldo excels at. So, my prediction is that Trinaldo will win via first round submission. 

    185 lbs.: Nate Marquardt vs. Thiago Santos – This is a tough fight for the veteran Nate Marquardt, as Thiago Santos is just absolutely scary on the feet (watch his knockout of Steve Bosse). I just can’t see how Marquardt wins this fight, as he’s honestly a shell of himself. I really wish he had just retired after he knocked C.B. Dollaway out. However, he didn’t and I think he’s going to pay dearly for that, as I have Santos winning via first round TKO. 

    135 lbs.: Rob Font vs. John Lineker – Font is a very good bantamweight, but his progression might slow down here. I mean, Lineker is just a brute force with some of the heaviest hands in the UFC. He will turn a fight into a slugfest and his chin is elite enough to take whatever Font has to offer. I’m not too sure the latter could be said about Font, but who knows. All I know though is I’m going to side with Lineker here, and despite the size disadvantage, the power advantage is just too much to pass on. So, with that, I have Lineker via TKO in the very first round. 

    UFC 198 Fight Pass Prelims (6:30 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira vs. Patrick Cummins – This reminds of the fight between Antonio Rogerio Nogueira against wrestlers like Phil Davis, Ryan Bader and Jason Brilz. “Lil Nog” only won one of those fights, defeating Jason Brilz via a controversial split decision. The other two, he got wrestled into oblivion and that was five years ago. So, at the age of 39 now, he will again face a superior wrestler in Patrick Cummins. I’m going to forecast a beatdown and predict that Cummins will win via second round TKO. 

    170 lbs.: Sergio Moraes vs. Luan Chagas – I have no idea who Luan Chagas is, besides the fact that he is a late replacement for Kamaru Usman. A fighter that would of been a terrible matchup for Moraes, so in my opinion he lucked out here. I’m going to be very brief here and say that Moraes’s grappling and submission prowess will be enough to finish Chagas in the very first round. 

    145 lbs.: Renato Moicano vs. Zubaira Tukhugov – Zubaira Tukhugov all day here, as I have no idea who Moicano is and the fact that he hasn’t fought in over a year. Tukhugov is already 2-0 in the UFC, make that 3-0, as I have him winning via decision!

     

  • UFC Fight Night 87: Survivor Game

    Wow, don’t look now, but I’m on FIRE! I absolutely loved the Whittaker pick last week, as his style and striking ability was just too much for Natal to deal with as I expected. Also, although I said to take it with a grain of salt, Edson Barboza wound up cashing in as my upset pick. He did so very dominantly too, which was extremely surprising to me. 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: 3 (Lock of the Day) + 2 (Upset of the Day) = 5

     

    Lock of the Day: Kyoji Horiguchi

    Note: Like I said in my predictions, Neil Seery is as tough as they come. He’s going to hold his own, but he’s facing an elite flyweight. One in which is a better striker and is now training at American Top Team. I think Seery is going to hang in there, but Horiguchi is going to put on a clinic in there dominantly win this one. Lock it in!

    Upset of the Day: Antonio Silva

    Note: I have little confidence in this pick, but it’s a Heavyweight fight – meaning I have about a 50% chanc of being right. Silva’s best days are behind him and so are Struve’s, so why not? Plus “Bigfoot” is rocking that slicked back hair look, which maybe means he’s reinvigorated or something. We’l just have to see – semi lock it in…