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  • UFC Fight Night 87: Overeem vs. Arlovski Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 87: Overeem vs. Arlovski Predictions

    After a one week absence, the UFC returns action in Rotterdam, Netherlands. This will be the first time the UFC has touched down in the Netherlands, as they continue to try and expand their global reach. Headlining the card, is two top ranked Heavyweights in the form of the Dutchman Alistair “The Reem” Overeem and Andrei “The Pitbull” Arlovski. Peculiar, as these two men are stablemates at JacksonWink MMA, but have made it quite clear that they are not friends. And, even if they secretly are, once those octagon closes – no one is friends.

    Anyways, Overeem will look to build off his recent knockout victory over former UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior Dos Santos. A victory that extended his winning streak to three and has him on the cusp of a UFC Heavyweight title shot. On the other hand, Arlovski will look to get back in the win column, as Stipe Miocic ended a four fight win streak that had “The Pitbull” at the doorstep of a title shot. An opportunity knocks though, as a win over Overeem will put Arlovski right back in the discussion.

    The card also features another Heavyweight showdown, as another Dutchman in Stefan “Skyscraper” Struve will look to bounce back against former title challenger Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva. Also, Albert Tumenov takes on Gunnar Nelson, which could very well be your Fight of the Night. O, and Kyoji Horiguchi is on the card against Neil Seery – which will be fireworks! Anyways, to the Predictions!

     

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (2 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Alistair Overeem vs. Andrei Arlovski – Back in September of 2014, Alistair Overeem saw his UFC record drop to 2-3, as Ben Rothwell TKO’d him. Overeem’s future in the UFC seemed bleak, given the expectations, the failed drug test and the purse he makes per fight. However, he got another opportunity and has really seized it, rallying off three consecutive wins. A win over Arlovski, could solidfy a shot a the title next. However, Arlovski is no pushover and certainly made his presence in his second stint in the UFC. As for the fight, we have two of the very best strikers in the Heavyweight division and I can probably assure you that this will be contested on the feet. Overeem since his move to JacksonWink MMA has shown a more patient and technical approach to his striking. It’s another element to his game that has aided him in not taking a punch to give a punch, which has plagued him several times. Arlovski will look to use his athleticism and movement to create angles for his counter punching. Unfortunately though, I don’t think Overeem is going to be pressuring Arlovski and giving him an opportunity to counter punch.  I think we could see a long feeling out period, similar to that of Overeem against Junior Dos Santos. If Overeem doesn’t play Arlovski’s game, then I don’t see any reason why he won’t win this. So with that, I’m going to predict that Alistair Overeem will TKO Andrei Arlovski in the third round.

    265 lbs.: Stefan Struve vs. Antonio Silva – Both fighters need a win, both have had medical issues and both seem like a shell of their former selves. It’s honestly a toss up here, as both are excellent ground fighters and decent strikers. Silva’s chin seems all but gone and his career hangs in balance, which is why I’m going to pick him. He’s going to be desperate to win and Struve is no longer intimidating because of his size. He’s slow and hesitant and lacks that killer instinct he used to have earlier in his career. I got Antonio Silva via TKO in the 1st round. 

    170 lbs.: Gunnar Nelson vs. Albert Tumenov – This right here should be the main event, as we got two young talents colliding in what could be your Fight of the Night. Nelson, will look to get this one to the mat, where he undoubtedly holds the grappling advantage. He also can hold his own on the feet, but against a top notch striker like Albert Tumenov, the gameplan certainly won’t be to slug it out.  I’m very mixed with a prediction because on one hand, if Tumenov’s takedown defense wards off Nelson, I think he wins. If Nelson is able to get him down, I don’t think he will be able to get back up. So, I’m go with the latter and predict that Gunnar Nelson will be able to take Tumenov down and grind him out with superior top control. Nelson via decision.

    135 lbs.: Anna Elmose vs. Germaine de Randamie – I have no idea who Elmose is, but I definitely know who the “Iron Lady” is. She’s a decorated kickboxer, who’s only undefeated with a record of 37-0. Obviously though this is mixed martial arts and that sterling record has only translated into a 5-3 mma record, but since I know squat about Elmose, that’s enough for me to pick de Randamie via decision!

    205 lbs.: Francimar Barroso vs. Nikita Krylov – I can’t pick against Krylov, I just can’t! I don’t think I’ve ever picked him, as I’ve always based my predictions off that slopfest of fight against Soa Palelei. I honestly saw no talent, no heart, no cardio, no (you name it). However, he changed his diet and dropped down to Light Heavyweight and has shown real progress. His striking is evolving and he seems to be developing a serviceable ground game. I think the sky’s the limit for Nikita “Al Capone” Krylov and I don’t think Barroso does any one thing to scare in saying that Krylov will win in the third round via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Heather Jo Clark vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz – I think Clark is in for a long night here, as the only chance she has rides on her ability to get this one to the mat. Kowalkiewicz has speed, timing and very good kickboxing. I think the volume and her ability to be dynamic is going to give Heather Jo Clark a lot of problems as she tries to get inside. So with that, I have Kowalkiewisz winning by deicision, as she wards of Jo Clark’s grappling and technically picks her apart.

    FOX Sports 1 Under Card (12:00 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Rustam Khabilov vs. Chris Wade – I like Wade, but he’s only showed to be wrestler. I haven’t seen anything special in striking department enough to sway me to believe that he can win this. Khabilov in his own right is a good wrestler with an improving striking game. I just don’t see where Wade wins this, so I’m going to side with Khabilov via deicision.  

    185 lbs.: Magnus Cedenblad vs. Garreth McLellan – Cedenblad might be a little rusty, as he hasn’t fought in more than year. I don’t think rust will matter though, as this is a tailored made match for him. McLellan is decent, but that’s about it. Cedenblad is scary on the feet and on the ground, especially his top control. So with that, I have Cedenblad doing whatever he wants and eventually winning via first round submission!

    155 lbs.: Josh Emmett vs. Jon Tuck – I don’t know who Emmett is, but I commend him for taking this short notice opportunity. Unfortunately, I don’t think he’s going to beat Tuck, especially when he goes “Super Saiyan” (See What I Did There?). Anyways, Tuck is surprisingly a decent talent in my eyes and I’ve never gotten why he hasn’t been able to find consistency in winning. Well, here’s a chance to notch two in a row – which will happen as I got Tuck via submission. 

     
    155 lbs.: Yan Cabral vs. Reza Madadi – Ehh, I’m a go with the “Mad Dog” Reza Medadi here. Cabral has no striking ability whatsoever and Medadi is decent. Cabral’s game revolves around taking you down and holding you there. I think Medadi’s wrestling will suffice in countering it and earn him a decision victory.

    UFC Fight Pass Undercard (10:30 a.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Kyoji Horiguchi vs. Neil Seery – Sick Fight! Horiguchi all day though, as I consider him to be one of the very best flyweights on the planet. In my opinion, besides Joseph Benavidez, Horiguchi is the only real threat left in the division. And, I know Demetrious Johnson dominanted him, but I believe Horiguchi got thrown in there way too soon. Anyways, Seery should stick in this contest and give him a fight, but with Horiguchi now training at ATT, I think we are in store for a more dynamic fighter. So with that, Horiguchi via TKO in the third round

    170 lbs.: Leon Edwards vs. Dominic Waters – Poor Waters stepped in on short notice and fought Dong Hyun Kim. Now, he has to fight an up and coming talent who just held his own against a really superior wrestler in Kamaru Usman. Waters is a poor man’s Usman at best…Edwards via KO!

    125 lbs.: Willie Gates vs. Ulka Sasaki – No clue who Sasaki is, but he’s undefeated and in phenomenal shape. However, I’m going to side with the explosive and very much in need of a win, Willie Gates. 

  • UFC 197: Survivor Game

    Well, at the very least I extended my streak to 3, as I boldly picked Khabib Nurmagomedov as my lock of the day. As for my upset of the day, he was anhilated within the first round…so let’s not further talk about that. 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: 2 (Lock of the Day) + 1 (Upset of the Day) = 3

     

    Lock of the Day: Robert Whittaker

    Note: I love this matchup for Robert Whittaker, as I don’t think Natal is going to be able to grapple with the elusive Whittaker. So, that leaves us to a striking match and while Natal can hold his own…Whittaker is elite. I love Whittaker via KO! 

    Upset of the Day: Edson Barboza

    Note: I’m not confident in any of the underdogs, but Barboza’s elite and dynamic striking makes him a live dog. Take this upset with a grain of salt though. 

  • UFC 197: Jones vs. St. Preux Predictions

    UFC 197: Jones vs. St. Preux Predictions

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    The UFC is back for the third straight week, as Jon Jones finally returns to action to take on short notice opponent Ovince St. Preux. It seems like the injury bug has once again hit the UFC, as originally Daniel Cormier was slated to defend his belt in an anticipated rematch against Jon Jones. However, Cormier pulled out due to an injury and in filled Ovince St. Preux. I’ll admit though, at first I was hoping that Anthony Johnson was going to be the replacement. But, I want to see Anthony Johnson with a full camp, not on short notice against perhaps the pound for pound greatest fighter Jon Jones. Anyways, to the Predictions!

     

    UFC 197 PPV MAIN CARD (10 P.M. ET):

    205 lbs.: Jon Jones vs. Ovince Saint Preux for UFC Light Heavyweight Interim Championship – Now, I love Ovince St. Preux and more often than not, I’m down with OSP. However, he is competing against the greatest living fighter I’ve ever witnessed. A fighter that will fight you at your own game and make you look elementary. A fighter that physichally looks better than I’ve ever seen before. I’m sorry OSP, but this spells trouble in the fashion of a good ole butt whipping. Jones via submission!

    125 lbs.: UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson vs. Henry Cejudo – How sick is this card, as two of the pound for pound fighters on the planet are featuring it! First off, Henry Cejudo is a formidble opponent for Demetrious Johnson. He’s got great movement and speed, his striking continues to improve and he’s a superiror wrestler. However, Johnson is all of those and some in my opinion. His fight IQ is off the charts and if Cejudo can’t beat him, who the hell will? Anyways, Johnson via decision!

    155 lbs.: Edson Barboza vs. Anthony Pettis  – What a sick fight, as two of the most dynamic strikers on the planet will finally collide. Former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis will look to get back on track, as he’s currently on a two fight losing streak. Three loses would put him in a dangerous position, one that I’m sure he will at all cost avoid. Barboza will also look to get back into the win column, as Tony Ferguson put him away in a awesome fight that earned “Fight of the Night Honors”. I have no doubt, that this fight will do the same and earn “Fight of the Night”. As for the winner, I got Anthony Pettis. I just can’t see the former champion losing three in a row. For one, he doesn’t have to worry about a wrestler taking him down and that’s going to bring out the best Pettis. The same one who dismantled Donald Cerrone. So with that , I got Pettis via TKO!

    185 lbs.: Rafael Natal vs. Robert Whittaker – Respect to Rafael Natal for the winning streak he has put forth, I mean I still can’t believe he beat Uriah Hall. However, Robert Whittaker is a terrible matchup for Natal, similar to Uriah Hall. The thing that Hall lacked though, is killer instinct….something that Whittaker is filled with. When he smells blood, he puts you away! Natal will bleed and be put away, mark my words! Whittaker via KO!

    145 lbs.: Andre Fili vs. Yair Rodriguez – Great matchup and test for both young talents. Yair Rodriguez brings one of the more dynamic striking games to table, it’s honestly must watch! Andre Fili is talented grappler, with an improving striking game. Man, normally I’d go with the grappler, but I like Rodriguez’s gas tank and ability to get back on his feet when taken down. He’s got no quit in him and I love that. The future is bright and gets a little more brighter after Rodriguez was away with a TKO victory!

    UFC 197 FOX Sports 1 “Prelims” (8 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Chris Kelades vs. Sergio Pettis – I hate when I do this, but Pettis all day here. The dominant performance he had on former title contender Chris Cariaso…is a telling sign that he’s budding and ready to bloom. With that, Pettis via domination!

    170 lbs.: Danny Roberts vs. Dominique Steele – I love hot chocolate, which also happens to be the nickname of Danny Roberts. By default, I predict he will be the winner (He also happens to quick with good boxing).

    115 lbs.: Juliana Lima vs. Carla Esparza – The former and first ever UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion Carla Esparza is finally back! I like this matchup too, as Lima is pegged as a muay thai specialist…but all she does is grind you against the cage. Go ahead and do that against Esparza and I’m sure she’ll appreciate you wanting to grappling. In fact I guarantee she’ll eat you up like a cookie (See what I did there). With that, Esparza via decision!

    155 lbs.: Glaico Franca vs. James Vick – What has James Vick done to deserve fights like this? Does Sean Shelby think he’s matchmaking for Michael Vick? I mean he’s undefeated and is a perfect 4-0 in the UFC. In Vick’s last fight, he submitted the young and talented Aussie Jake Matthews. That’s deserving of a higher ranked opponent, but I guess not. I mean, no offense to Franca, but Vick via submission and hopefully some respect afterwards.

    265 lbs.: Cody East vs. Walt Harris – This is the one thing I never understood about the UFC…do you even care about your Heavyweight division? It’s basically full of veterans and hardly any young talent. Signing guys like Marcin Tybura and Cody East are good starts. As for a prediction, Walt Harris still being in the UFC is surprise to me, as he’s shown basically nothing. I think Mr. East is going to KO him and quick. He’s got legit power in those hands and Harris has the striking defense reminiscent of Bob Sapp… East via KO !

    185 lbs.: Clint Hester vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima. – Someone’s taking a nap here and I think that’s going to be De Lima. It’s more so due to the fact that I still believe Hester has the potential to be something special. This is due or die though, as Hester is riding a two fight skid. If Hester can avoid the first three minutes of De Lima’s gas tank, he should be able to put him away late. Hester via TKO!

    155 lbs.: Efrain Escudero vs. Kevin Lee – Lee is cocky and brash, which cost him in his last fight. I think it’s the best thing to happen to him though, not because he might of been humbled…but because it’s going to help him shore up his mistakes. Lee in my eyes is still a future contender at lightweight and Escudero is a gatekeeper. I got Lee busting through the doors and winning via submission!

  • UFC on Fox 19: Survivor Game

    Woo Hoo! I nailed both my lock of the day (Mairbek Taisumov) and upset of the day (Timothy Johnson) at UFC Fight Night 86. This is the first time I have gotten both right and this most certainly rights my wrongs at UFC Fight Night 85.  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: 1 (Lock of the Day) + 1 (Upset of the Day) = 2

     

    Lock of the Day: Khabib Nurmagomedov

    Note: I mean, you can’t fault me here for not having a backbone right? I’m only allowed to pick one fighter for that entire year for the lock of day. I see an amazing opportunity here to save a fighter here for another time, so this in my opinion is a smart move. Well…maybe I should talk about the fight instead of trying to prove my case, but that would be a waste of time too, lock in Nurmagomedov.

    Upset of the Day: Court McGee

    Note: I’m not entirely confident about this pick, but nothing on the card remotely interested me. I think that if McGee can stifle Ponzinibbio with his volume and pace…a split decision is possible. 

  • UFC on Fox 19: Teixeira vs. Evans Predictions

    UFC on Fox 19: Teixeira vs. Evans Predictions

    The UFC is back for the second straight week, as they grace Tampa, Florida. It’s been a rough road though to get to this point, as injuries and drug doping have plagued this card. Originally, a number one contender bout between Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov headlined the card.  However, Tony Ferguson was forced off via an injury and in result a light heavyweight bout between Glover Teixeira and Rashad Evans was promoted to main event status. Another hit to the fight card came in the form of drug doping, in which Lyoto Machida admitted to using a banned substance. In result, his fight against Dan Henderson was cancelled and now we wait for the length of an inevitable suspension.  In lesser impact on the card, Caio Magalhães was forced off the card via injury and Islam Makhachev was removed after USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) informed the UFC of banned substance in his system. It’s unfortunate that their is a continuance of drug doping in the UFC, but at least it’s getting cleaned up. However, I hate the fact that guys still think they can get away with using banned substances. It hurts the sport, your fans and the one’s who bought tickets to the fight. O well, to the Predictions!

     

    UFC on FOX 19 Main Card (8 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Glover Teixeira vs. Rashad Evans – I feel for Rashad Evans here, as he’s been plagued by injuries, looked flat against Ryan Bader and now has to fight Glover Teixeira. The same Teixeira that’s on a two fight win streak, submitting Ovince St. Preux (who’s fighting Jon Jones for the interim light heavyweight title) and defeating Patrick Cummins via TKO.  I honestly think that Teixeira keeps the streak going too, as I just can’t see vintage Evans coming back. The injuries and recent poor performance aren’t tell tale signs we’ll see the footwork, movement, high quality wrestling and technical striking that helped Evans not only win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship, but stay atop the division forever. Let’s hope, but as for a prediction…Glover Teixeira via stoppage in the later rounds. 

    115 lbs.: Rose Namajunas vs. Tecia Torres – This fight will be a rematch, as Rose Namajunas looks to even the score against Tecia Torres. The first fight happened nearly three years ago, as Torres got the nod via decision. Since, both fighters have evolved, but more so Rose Namajunas in her last two fights. They have dominant victories, really showcasing the true potential of the former Women’s Strawweight title challenger. I think that Torres is definitely a contender and a well rounded fighter, but Namajunas is on another level and I think she is destined to fight for that title again very soon. Namajunas via late submission. 

    160 lbs.: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Darrell Horcher – On one hand I’m happy to see Khabib Nurmagomedov return, on the other not against Darrell Horcher. Bless his heart for signing up for the beat down that he most likely endure when they close that octagon door. However, if there’s anytime to beat Nurmagomedov, it might be now. Wait, what the hell am I saying…Nurmagomedov via rag dolling finish in the second round.

    145 lbs.: Cub Swanson vs. Hacran Dias – Solid fight and I like that Cub Swanson took time off to heal up after two rough defeats. Dias has been on a little roll, winning two in a row. However, I feel as if he hasn’t really showed me anything, especially given I considered him at one point to be the future of the featherweight division (I know…). Anyways, the only way Dias wins this fight is he grapples and grinds out Swanson. I don’t think his striking is nearly good enough to hang with Swanson, so if he can’t get this fight to the ground, expect a long night. The one thing on Dias side is that Swanson has been inactive for a year, but that’s nothing too crazy. In fact, like I mentioned before I actually like that he did that and I think we are in for a reinvigorated and reinvented Cub Swanson. With that, Swanson via decision.

    UFC on FOX 19 “Prelims” (6 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Michael Chiesa vs. Beneil Dariush – Solid fight and as for a prediction, this is a tough call. On one hand you got a well rounded contender in Beneil Dariush and in the other, a superb grappler and tough as nails fighter in Michael Chiesa. The one overall deciding factor here for me is that I’m confident Dariush can grapple with Chiesa, however I’m not confident that Chiesa can strike with Dariush. I think that Dariush is an amazing technical striker and will frustrate Chiesa with his movement, which resembles a guerilla-warefare like style.  With that, I expect Dariush to outpoint Chiesa and earn a decision victory.

    135 lbs.: Bethe Correia vs. Raquel Pennington – I hope I don’t sound disrespectful here, but I don’t think that Correia is as good as might believe. She was catapulted into a title shot because she beat Jessamyn Duke and Shayna Baszler, who were two of the self proclaimed four horsewomen (Ronda Rousey, Marina Shafir, Jessamyn Duke and Shayna Baszler). It was a WWE-esque storyline basically and Rousey ended it with a quick and brutal knockout. Also, Duke and Baszler are no longer in the UFC and have gone a combined 0-4 since losing to Correia. In other words, I got Raquel Pennington via a domination…TKO in the second round. 

    170 lbs.: Court McGee vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio – I’ll tell you this right now, the right pick here is probably Santiago Ponzinibbio who’s actually proved to be a surprising talent in the welterweight division. He’s got legit power in hands, excellent grappling, has shown tremendous heart and an ability to hang with quality opponents. And while I build him up, I for whatever reason believe that the veteran Court McGee will edge this out. McGee is well rounded, makes up for his lack of power in volume and can grind you out. Now, I’m expecting a super close fight…but I’m a take the bearded one, Court McGee via split decision.

    170 lbs.: Randy Brown vs. Michael Graves – I was lucky to see Randy Brown’s UFC debut at UFC on Fox 18. He looks like a good talent, so kudo’s to Dana White’s show “Looking for a Fight” in finding him. I also like that he’s from my home state New York, which automatically means he wins this one via decision. 🙂

    UFC on FOX 19 “Prelims” on UFC Fight Pass (4:30 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: John Dodson vs. Manny Gamburyan – Dodson via KO! Love the move up and this fight stylistically does no favors to Gamburyan. 
    185 lbs.: Cezar Ferreira vs. Oluwale Bamgbose -Prediction came out during this, unacceptable…
    170 lbs.: Omari Akhmedov vs. Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos – Missed the fight! ARGHHHH

     

  • UFC Fight Night 86: Survivor Game

    Let’s not talk about UFC Fight Night 85 please, as I absolutely bombed on the lock of the day and the upset of the day (super embarrassing display). 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: 0 (Lock of the Day) + 0 (Upset of the Day) = 0

     

    Lock of the Day: Mairbek Taisumov

    Note: It’s hard not to like the talent on Mairbek Taisumov, as he’s a very flashy striker. If he just keeps working on takedown defense, we might have a legit contender on the rise at lightweight. I have no idea who Taisumov’s opponent is, but I think this is another fight to build him up slowly. Taisumov by whatever he wants!

    Upset of the Day: Timothy Johnson

    Note: This pick all relies on Johnson’s gas tank, cause I expect this to be a boring three round fight. Johnson’s opponent Tybura isn’t dominant in any martial art, however he’s a smart fighter and has a knack for getting the win. Johnson is a big heavyweight with some decent power, especially in the clinch. I’m really thinking this might be a slopfest of a fight, so I figure Johnson might be able to squeak out a decision victory. Like I mentioned in my predictions, take this with a grain of salt though…

  • UFC Fight Night 86: Rothwell vs. Dos Santos Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 86: Rothwell vs. Dos Santos Predictions

    The UFC continues their global reach, as they touch down in Zagreb, Croatia for the very first time. The fight card heavily (pun intended) consist of Heavyweights, including an all important one in the main event. It’s important to note though, that this card is definitely missing mixed martial legend Mirko Cro Cop. The hometown fighter is currently serving a two year suspension, essentially for admitting the usage of human growth hormones (HGH). It’s sort of bizarre too, given that he never failed the drug test administered by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).  It’s a real bummer for the UFC too, as they are trying to tap into these new markets without top local talent. Mirko Crop Cop headlining Zagreb, Croatia would of been huge, but instead they will be treated with a solid main event in Ben Rothwell vs. Junior Dos Santos. Anyways, to the Predictions!

     

    FOX Sports 1 Main Card (2 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Ben Rothwell vs. Junior dos Santos – I might be one of the few who believe this, but strategically Ben Rothwell is a genius for booking this fight. As we all know, Rothwell is on a tear. He’s riding a four fight win streak, one in which he has won by TKO over the likes of Alistair Overeem and Brandon Vera, as well as submitted the likes of Matt Mitrione and Josh Barnett. It’s clear that Rothwell is a win away from most likely fighting for the title, so what better way then to fight the former UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior Dos Santos. I’m not saying that Dos Santos isn’t capable of winning this fight, but it’s certain that he’s been a shell of himself since enduring two beat downs from Cain Velasquez. Regardless though, we are talking about heavyweights here. The hardest hitters on the planet, where one punch usually ends the night (see Mark Hunt). As for a prediction, it’s hard not to ride the coattails of Rothwell. He knows the stakes of this fight and the impact it will have on his fifteen year career. I believe that Rothwell will win this one via submission. 

    265 lbs.: Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Derrick Lewis – I’m still surprised that Gabriel Gonzaga is still around, especially considering how bad he looked in his win over Konstantin Erokhin. He looked like a guy that had mileage on him and lack of killer instinct, something that has led to him finishing all his opponents up until that fight. All these are tell tale signs to me of a career winding down, one in which has been a solid one. However, Gonzaga will try and prove that he has something left in the tank against a monster in Derrick Lewis, who is on a little tear, with two TKO victories. You know what, Check Please, make that three TKO victories! 

    265 lbs.: Francis Ngannou vs. Curtis Blaydes – Francis Ngannou is a physical specimen, with legit power in his hands. His kryptonite however is wrestlers, which Curtis Blaydes excels at. In fact if you recall, Ngannou was taken down over and over against a sub-par wrestler before knocking him out. Blaydes from what I seen, is a solid wrestler and I’ll take him here to finish Ngannou late!

    265 lbs.: Timothy Johnson vs. Marcin Tybura – It’s about time that the UFC invests in finding talent in their Heavyweight division. However, Tybura’s style isn’t the most exciting. He really doesn’t excel in striking or wrestling, but seemingly gets the job done. Timothy Johnson is decently well rounded, but his strength seems to be in the clinch. He also has an “OK” gas tank for a heavyweight, which I think will help him edge this one out by decision. My confidence of this fight is no where to be seen though…so take this with a grain of salt.

    205 lbs.: Jan Blachowicz vs. Igor Pokrajac – So, when I mentioned before that when the UFC touches down in these local markets, they usually try and get local fighters on the card. Well, Igor Pokrajac is that local fighter and this will be his second stint in the UFC. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s going to be very successful return, as I think Jan Blachowicz is just better than Pokrajac everywhere. Now, Blachowicz is no “Monster”, but he has enough tools to put away Pokrajac at some point. Blachowicz via TKO!

    115 lbs.: Maryna Moroz vs. Cristina Stanciu – I’ve only seen Moroz fight, as she upset Joanne Calderwood and then loss to Valerie Latourneau (Who then fought for the title). It’s kind of crazy too, that those were her first two fights in the UFC. However, the division is still young and in development, that you can kind of expect to be thrown into the wolves right away. Anyways, Moroz doesn’t really have great striking, but her grappling is superb. And since I know nothing about her opponent, I’m just going to side with Moroz via submission (Terrible way to make predictions).

    FOX Sports 1 “Prelims” (12:00 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Zak Cummings vs. Nicolas Dalby – Zak Cummings is an interesting fighter, I mean the guy was able to win a round against Gunnar Nelson before succumbing to a submission later in the fight. He’s shown to be extremely powerful at welterweight and has an ability to grind you out. Dalby is a well rounded fighter that bring a high pace to the fight. He’s a volume striker that will keep you on your toes the whole three rounds. I’m very conflicted in a prediction here, but I’m going to side with Cummings to grind out a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Damir Hadzovic vs. Mairbek Taisumov – This one is easy, Mairbek Taisumov! I love his style and I have no idea who the other guy is…

    135 lbs.: Ian Entwistle vs. Alejandro Perez – Entwistle by leg lock? You know what, I’ll lock that in.

    135 lbs.: Filip Pejic vs. Damian Stasiak – I have absolutely no idea who these guys are, which is the problem when you have over 500 guys on the roster. I’m going with Stasiak though for no reason….

    UFC Fight Pass “Prelims” (10:30 a.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Lucas Martins vs. Robert Whiteford – Predictions came out during fight
    265 lbs.: Cyril Asker vs. Jared Cannonier – Fight already happened
    185 lbs.: Alessio Di Chirico vs. Bojan Velickovic – Fight already happened

  • UFC Fight Night 85: Survivor Game

    UFC 196 killed my streak of three, as I thought that McGregor was going to win. This is coming from a Diaz brothers fan too, what a shame. 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: 0 (Lock of the Day) + 0 (Upset of the Day) = 0

     

    Lock of the Day: Antonio Carlos Junior

    Note: Dan Kelly doesn’t impress me and he’s super slow. Antonio Carlos Junior is the future and I see this as a changing of the guard type fight. Carlos Junior wins this wherever he wants, although I’m sure he’d prefer to get this one to the mat and submit Kelly. And that’s all I got to say about that….

     

    Upset of the Day: Johnny Case

    Note: I can’t see why Johnny Case is the underdog here. He’s well rounded, far more experience and hasn’t looked bad against Akbarh Arreola… I hate to joke, but that’s just speaks to how young, inexperienced and raw that Jake Matthews is. I believe in a few years, we are going to have a star on our hand, but right now, this is Case’s time to shine. I got Case via decision here!

  • UFC Fight Night 85: Hunt vs. Mir Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 85: Hunt vs. Mir Predictions

    The UFC returns “down under”, as two legendary heavyweights are set to collide. Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Frank Mir looks to get back into the win column, after coming up just short against Andrei Arlovski. The loss would end a two fight win streak, one in which was surprising given Mir’s age (36) and the fact that he had lost four consecutive fight prior. As for Mir’s opponent, that would be in the form of the “Super Samoan” Mark Hunt, who is coming off a TKO win over Antonio Silva.  Hunt made quick work in the rematch, avoiding replicating the first fight, which I’d say was the greatest heavyweight fight ever (Antonio Silva was on the juice though).

    The fight between Mark Hunt vs. Frank Mir is an interesting one though, in which it features contrasting styles. Mark Hunt is striker, who carries immense power and he has a legendary chin. Frank Mir is a grappler, who along with Fabricio Werdum, is hands down one of the best submission artist in mixed martial arts. It’s clear that Hunt will look to avoid getting into any grappling exchanges and keep this one standing. As for Mir, I’m not sure whether he’s going to be smart and get inside on Hunt to grapple him or he’s going to keep this “K1 Mir” act going. I’d strongly advise against it, as Hunt is way more of a threat on the feet than Mir’s last two knockout victims (Antonio Silva, Todd Duffee). Also on the card is a super interesting welterweight bout, featuring two top contenders in Hector Lombard and Neil Magny. The welterweight division is seemingly getting crowded and if George St. Pierre returns, all hell will break loose. Anyways, to the Predictions!

    Main Card (Fox Sports 1, 10 p.m. ET)

    206-265 lbs: Mark Hunt vs. Frank Mir – I can only see this fight going two ways, as either Mark Hunt knocks Frank Mir out or Frank Mir submits Mark Hunt. It’s your classic striker vs. grappler and it’s all comes down to if Mir can get this fight to the ground. If he can’t, then he enters a world in which Hunt will inflict serious damage on him. Mir, has also been known to not fight to his strengths, which is odd given his experience and that he’s a smart guy. I think a great example of that is against Todd Duffee, where he threw caution to the wind, bit on his mouthpiece and flung leather. Mir surprisingly won that battle and knocked out Todd Duffee , but that’s not the type of fighter Mir is. If you do that against Hunt, just pre-tuck yourself in to bed for the night. I don’t think that’s going to be the case, I actually think Mir will try and grapple with Hunt. However, I believe Hunt will shrug off any of those grappling exchanges and light up Mir on the feet. So, I’m going to pick Mark Hunt to win by knockout in the very first round.

    170 lbs: Neil Magny vs. Hector Lombard – What an intriguing bout, as Neil Magny returns to the octagon for his 11th fight in a little over two years. Magny seems to be born from the same cloth as Donald Cerrone, as they are by far the most active UFC fighters in the last few years. Hector Lombard can’t say the same, as he hasn’t fought since January of 2015. Not due to injury, but because he tested positive for anabolic steroids. It’s a shame, given that he’s 38 years old and times dwindling down for him to make a run for UFC Gold. As for the fight, I have Hector Lombard. I just think he’s too well rounded, has more of an ability to finish the fight and is very durable. Magny is great, don’t get me wrong. However, he’s been hittable of late (Lim, Gastelum) and Lombard packs more of punch than any fighter Magny has faced. Magny should use his height and reach to jab away at Lombard to keep him at bay, however the explosiveness of Lombard will create issues there. The only thing I’m banking on, is that the explosiveness after a year off from action is still there. Lombard by KO!

    155 lbs: Jake Matthews vs. Johnny Case – This is a battle of two young prospects out of the lightweight division. I’m going to be brief here as I believe Johnny Case will win, on the basis of him being well rounded, experienced and I can notice progression during each fight. Matthews I have no doubt has a bright future, but he’s only 21 years old. He struggled against Akbarh Arreola in his last fight, which is a real turnoff. So, with that, I got Case to win his 13th fight in a row via decision.

    185 lbs: Dan Kelly vs. Antônio Carlos Júnior – Every time Dan Kelly fights, it’s just not my cup of tea, as it’s just a sloppy striking contest. It’s also usually against lower tier competition, which isn’t the case here. Antonio Carlos Júnior I believe is a real talent and I could see him outclassing Kelly everywhere. In fact, I would be shocked if Carlos Júnior doesn’t finish Kelly…which is my prediction. 

    205 lbs: James Te-Huna vs. Steve Bossé – After starting out 5-1 in the UFC, Te-Huna has since dropped three consecutive bouts. He also hasn’t fought since June of 2014, which often is a tough indicator of knowing what your going to get. Bossé is best known for being on the end of vicious head kick knockout by Thiago Santos. It’s also interesting that when the UFC initially signed him, he soon after retired and then came out of retirement to fight for them two years later. In other words, this is the battle of the in-actives. I find this to be a toss up, but I’m going to side with Te-Huna. He’s been in the big dance longer and has had nearly two years to heal from his injuries. While the mileage is high, I think with his back up against the wall, he’s going to avoid a slugfest and fight smart en route to a win. 

    115 lbs: Bec Rawlings vs. Seohee Ham – This is Bec Rawlings fight to lose, as she’s the bigger, more aggressive and has more an ability to finish the fight. Ham is a technical striker, that I consider to be more well verse in winning rounds (point fighter). Rawlings is not well verse in that aspect, which has already cost her three fights via decision. However, I’m more inclined to pick Rawlings, given that she is training with the UFC Bantamweight Champion Dominick Cruz. That’s good enough for me, Rawlings via decision.

    Preliminary Card (Fox Sports 1, 8 p.m. ET)

    170 lbs: Brendan O’Reilly vs. Alan Jouban – I feel for the Aussie here, as while Jouban is certainly flawed, I’m not entirely sure how O’Reilly can win. Jouban is just too dynamic on the feet, that I see this one ending early. So, with that, I got Jouban by first round knockout.

    145 lbs: Dan Hooker vs. Mark Eddiva – While it can be stated that both menare similar in some aspects, I think the biggest difference is the strength of competition. Eddiva has dropped two straight against okay fighters, while Hooker has fought Maximo Blanco, Hatsu Hioki and Yair Rodriguez. He’s faired well in each bout, however only defeating  Hatsu Hioki. Usually I like fighters with their backs against the wall, which is definitely Eddiva, but Hooker’s heart and determination is unmatched. I think the Aussie defends his home turf, winning via submission!

    135 lbs: Leslie Smith vs. Rin Nakai – While I think that Leslie Smith is the smart pick, I’m actually going to side with Rin Nakai. Smith obviously has a drastic height and reach advantage, which could lead to an early knockout. However, I think we could witness a smothering gameplan from Nakai. She’s super strong and is a good grappler, enough to implement a healthy dose of takedowns and top control. Smith is relentless and will attack from the bottom (if she winds up there), so it could lead to some interesting round scoring. I’m not sure exactly why I just don’t pick Smith, but I guess I believe that Nakai’s grappling and pure strength will come up huge here.

    170 lbs: Richard Walsh vs. Viscardi Andrade – This is a coin flip, as I’m not entirely impressed with either fighter. Walsh is super sloppy in striking and grappling, while Andrade is equally a mess. I guess the only way to decide this, is to go with the hometown fighter (which helps on the scorecards sometimes). So, I got Walsh via a “slopfest” decision. 

    Preliminary Card (UFC Fight Pass, 6:30 p.m. ET)

    155 lbs: Ross Pearson vs. Chad Laprise – Fun Fight! I think the UFC is really pushing Fight Pass in the right manner, as they keep headlining it with intriguing fights. As for this fight, it’s going to be all on the feet and I’m more reluctant to side with Ross Pearson. The experience and his technical, yet powerful hands should be the difference here. Plus, he’s due for a win according to his win one, lose one (My Cousin Vinny) pattern. 

    155 lbs: Alan Patrick vs. Damien Brown – I know nothing of Brown, except for the fact that he’s in trouble in this fight. Patrick is a huge lightweight and is very awkward with his movements. He’s got some power and he can grapple if need be. The win over John Makdessi was good sign of how good Alan Patrick can be, so with that I have Patrick winning via KO. 

  • UFC 196: Survivor Game

    UFC Fight Night: Bisping vs. Silva was good night for me, as I won both my locks of the day (I made up for an event I missed). I however can’t get any extra points picking an upset right though, but o well. Tom Breese gave me a scare, but Rustam Khabilov did exactly what I thought he’d do. 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) + 0 (Upset of the Day) = 3

     

    Lock of the Day: Conor McGregor

    Note: I love Diaz, but I can’t see how he wins this fight. McGregor doesn’t fight emotional, he fights smart and he’s precise. Diaz is not going to surprise us here and try a takedown or grapple. He’s going to stand in front, try and stalk and talk McGregor down. It’s not going to work in my opinion, as McGregor is going to work Diaz’s legs to slow his mobility down and then the body to get him tired, before going high to turn the light out. This hurts me to say, but lock it in…McGregor via KO.

     

    Upset of the Day: Diego Sanchez

    Note: I think it’s a fair assessment to give up on Diego Sanchez being relevant in the lightweight division. But, he’s not fighting an upper echelon fighter here. He’s fighting a fellow gritty veteran in Jim Miller, someone whom has not looked great in my opinion lately. It sucks to watch the decline of both men, especially Miller. Arguably he deserved a title shot at one point, only to be derailed by Benson Henderson which began his decline within the division. Anyways, I think that Sanchez’s ability to eat punches still is huge and if has to take one to give one, he will. Miller on the other end doesn’t have that ability and must get this one to the ground. I like Sanchez’s grappling and I think he keeps this upright or at the very least gets back up if he gets taken down. With that, I got Sanchez to upset Miler via decision.