Contenders Will Bring Fireworks
The UFC paired with match maker Jay Silva have really been working to please the fans and give a variety of fights in every weight class and there have been a few surprises lately. UFC 113 proved that underdogs can still pull off impressive victories (even when they are -200 to -600 in the odds) Three matchups excite me the most and are both vivid examples of why I love a good striking match in MMA every once and awhile.
Nathan Marquardt (7-3 UFC) hasn’t had the best of luck on his way back to fighting Anderson Silva. He was held down by a powerful wrestler Chael Sonnen for 3 rounds, even though Sonnen received the blunt of the damage from Marquardt off his back and the short time standing. Marquardt looks to be back in the picture and the UFC has given him a picture perfect opponent in Rousimar Palhares. Rousimar Palhares (6-4 UFC) is a BJJ fighter out of Brazilian Top Team. While Palhares does have good TKO victories it will be a tough matchup in the now upper class level of striking Marquardt possesses. Palhares will be at advantage if he puts Marquardt on his back, but everywhere else I would give the edge to Marquardt. This should be an awesome fast paced match of striking, and I look forward to seeing one of these guys get one step closer to the Spider.
Roy Nelson (2-0 UFC) may not be the best looking / most in shape fighter in the UFC but has always shown heavy hands, good wrestling, and never a lack of cardio in the Octagon. He has risen to the occasion twice and landed 2 first round KO’s in his first two outings. Junior Dos Santos (6-0 UFC) has been on fire ever since he stepped into the octagon and his last two fights ended in brutal Knockouts of well rounded and tested heavyweights. His boxing is great and he packs a huge uppercut, and was one of the few people to stop Mirko Cro Cop in MMA or striking ever. This Match screams KO of the night and honestly can come from either fighter. I can’t wait to see this go down, and will certainly line themselves as the next striker in line for a title shot when need be.
Jorge Rivera (7-3 UFC) is a reformed striker who recently shocked a lot of MMA fans by the brutal picking apart of Nate Quarry. His striking looks a lot more crisp and he has made improvements to his game to make sure he is one step closer to a title fight. Alessio Sakara (6-4 UFC) is a BJJ and boxing fighter who trains at American Top Team. He has had his ups and downs in the UFC but has been proven to be dangerous everywhere. While they are both coming off a win, I would give the edge to Rivera in striking, and Sakara on the ground. Should be a fast paced fight with two guys scrapping it out that promises a short finish.
This past month has had some good fight announcements, and I can’t wait for what is to come!
