UFC on FUEL TV 6: Franklin vs. Le

UFC on FUEL TV 6: Franklin vs. Le

Date: Nov 10, 2012

Location: Macau

Venue: CotaiArena, Venetian Macau Resort Hotel

Broadcast: FUEL TV and Facebook 

MAIN CARD (FUEL TV, 9 a.m. ET)

Rich Franklin vs. Cung Le-

Originally I thought Cung was a good play as an underdog here because it is a fight that would normally be tailored to Cung's skill set. But after hearing the interview with Ariel Helwani it appears that Cung is not coming into this fight 100%. A foot injury like the one Cung has takes away some of the dynamic striking that is the norm for him. This leave the door open for Franklin to take control and finish Cung in round 2.

Franklin TKO round 2

Stanislav Nedkov vs. Thiago Silva-

This should be a good fight in which Silva will likely try to get this fight to the ground where he holds the biggest advantage. Nedkov will try to turn this fight into a brawl. Silva should be technical enough to avoid Nedkov's big looping haymakers and exploit Nedkov's weaknesses in route to a TKO finish.

Silva via TKO round 2

Dong Hyum Kim vs. Paulo Thiago-

Kim should be able to take the upper hand in the ground game and do enough in the stand up to edge out a decision victory in the contest.

Kim via UD

Mac Danzig vs. Takanori Gomi-

Gomi will likely be looking to try to land a big bomb from the opening bell. Danzig will most likely clinch up and force Gomi to use his minimal cardio to muscle around grappling. After a round of doing so Gomi will start to wear out and Danzig will lock in a submission early in round 2

Danzig via sub round 2

Jon Tuck vs. Tiequan Zhang-

Most casual fans have not heard of Jon Tuck but after Saturday he will be on a lot of people's radar. The crowd should be going crazy for Zhang since he is the only homeland fighter but Tuck holds an advantage everywhere in this fight I can see Zhang holding on enough to have this fight go the distance but I think Tuck winning via KO is more likely, either way Tuck wins.

Tuck via KO round 1

Jeff Hougland vs. Takeya Mizugaki-

As long as Mizugaki can stay out of trouble on the ground he should have no problem earning a decision victory here.

Mizugaki via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 7:15 a.m. ET)

Alex Caceres vs. Motonobu Tezuka-

This is a fight that I'm not confident on partly because there are so many question marks surrounding each fighters recently faced competition. I personally am going to side with Tezuka based off the fact that I am not convinced Caceres is a good fight.

Tezuka via Dec

John Lineker vs. Yasuhiro Urushitani-

Lineker is by far the heavier puncher so he will be looking to land the big blow from the opening bell while Urushitani will be using a more technical approach. Lineker should eventually catch him and put Urushitani away late in round 2 or early round 3

Lineker via KO early round 3

Tom DeBlass vs. Riki Fukuda-

DeBlass is a pretty good grappler but he lacks the cardio to deal with the likes of Fukuda. Fukuda should push the pace and wear out DeBlass en route to a decision victory.

Fukada via Dec

David Mitchell vs. Hyun Gyu Lim-

Lim is the far superior striker and should be able to put this fight away early. I look for Lim to earn the KO victory within the first few minutes.

Lim via KO round 1

UFC 153 Breakdown

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)

Anderson Silva vs. Stephan Bonnar - non-title light-heavyweight fight-

Silva has every advantage in this fight; he hits harder, is faster and is better on the ground. One interesting thing of note is that Bonnar is a former Golden Gloves boxer, I don't think that will matter much in this fight but it will be intriguing to see how effective his boxing can be against Silva.

Silva via KO round 1

Dave Herman vs. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira-

This fight is one that has a lot of question marks around it. On paper Bog Nog should have big advantage here but he has been off for 10 months after Mir broke his arm. You have to wonder if age, a traumatic injury and time away will effect a fighter that has been through the amount of wars that Nog has. I think the power puncher Herman catches him early and puts away Nogueira.

Herman via Ko round 1

Fabio Maldonado vs. Glover Teixeira-

This fight is merely a question of how will Teixeira will win and how long it will take him. Tex holds a distinct advantage everywhere in this fight and Maldonado will see his short stint with the UFC come to a close as Teixeira taps him in the first round.

Teixeira via Sub round 1

Jon Fitch vs. Erick Silva-

Silva is an explosive fighter and I would love to see him win here to set up some intriguing matches at the top of this division but unfortunately it will not happen. Fitch will fight a normal fitch fight and take silva down an control him in route to a dec victory.

Fitch via Dec

Phil Davis vs. Wagner Prado-

The fact that Prado looked competitive in the 90 secs of the previous fight will have some people siding with Prado but that just means better odds for the smart money. Davis will use his far superior wrestling to take Prado down and eventually lock in a choke that will end Prado's night.

Davis via Sub round 2

Demian Maia vs. Rick Story-

This is a fight that I am not really sure what to make of and one that can truly go either way depending on how the fight plays out. Im leaning towards Maia based off the fact that this fight will likely go to the mat at some point and Maia holds a big advantage there.

Maia via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX, 8 p.m. ET)

Rony "Jason" Mariano Bezerra vs. Sam Sicilia-

This is a fight of two fighters that are true up and comers. Both fighters have sure fire ways to end this fight with Sicilia's coming in stand up and Rony's coming via submission. I think Sicilia's wrestling is good enough to keep the fight standing and he scores the TKO in round 1.

Sicilia TKO round 1

Gleison Tibau vs. Francisco Trinaldo-

Tibau has a big time strength advantage and will be able to out-muscle Trinaldo in the clinch, this will be the deciding factor in this fight as Tibau will be able to execute his game plan better.

Tibau via Dec

Diego Brandao vs. Joey Gambino-

Diego will come out firing from the opening bell and catch Gambino early to score a quick KO victory.

Brandao via KO round 1

Renee Forte vs. Sergio Moraes-

This should be a good fight as Moraes holds a big advantage on the ground and Forte has a solid stand up game. Forte should do enough on his feet to earn a decision victory.

Forte via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 7 p.m. ET)

Chris Camozzi vs. Luiz Cane-

Cane has been off his game lately but I think fighting in front of his home crowd in Brazil should be all the motivation he needs to get things back on track. 

Cane via TKO round 2

Reza Madadi vs. Cristiano Marcello-

In this fight between 2 great grapplers I will lean towards who I think is the better of the 2 and pick Marcello to win via sub in round 2

Marcello Sub round 2

UFC on FX 5 breakdown

MAIN CARD (FX, 8 p.m. ET)

Travis Browne vs. Antonio Silva-

If silva can get this fight down to the ground he has a good chance to end it there. However I think the Browne's speed and cardio will pull this fight into deeper waters and he will end up finishing this fight in the 4th.

Browne via TKO round 4

Jake Ellenberger vs. Jay Hieron-

In this fight my mind is saying go with Ellenberger but my heart is saying go with Hieron. I am going to have to side with Hieron to pull the upset here. Hieron has looked to be in great form here and is hungry to finally get to the top, I think he pulls out the dec victory

Hieron via Dec

John Dodson vs. Jussier Formiga-

This should be fight of the night and can really go either way. I am a big fan of both fighters and do not really feel that either holds a big advantage here. Dodson is the faster of the fighters but his scrappy style will make it easier for da silva (jussier) to get it to the ground. I will go with jussier da silva to pull out the close decision victory here in a fight that can go either way.

jussier da silva via dec

Josh Neer vs. Justin Edwards-

This should be a war from the start with both men swinging for the fences from the opening bell. The problem with that for Edwards is that he is not as good with his punches as Neer is. Neer will connect early and put Edwards to sleep.

Neer via KO round 1

PRELIMINARY CARD (FUEL TV, 5 p.m. ET)

Yves Edwards vs. Jeremy Stephens-

Stephens has taking his striking game to a new level lately and that will give him the edge in this fight as he lands a big punch in round 2 to earn the victory.

Stephens via TKO round 2

Danny Castillo vs. Michael Johnson-

I like Castillo better as a fighter in this fight but it is a bad match up for him. Johnson should be able to keep the fight standing and use his speed to out point Castillo to earn the dec victory

Johnson via Dec

Dennis Hallman vs. Thiago Tavares-

This is an interesting fight because both men are highly skilled on the ground. If the fight stays standing it will sway in the direction of Tavares but if it goes to the ground its anyones guess who holds the advantage. I personally hope to see a great grappling match here but I feel Tavares will be able to land enough to out point Hallman before it gets to the ground.

Tavares via Dec

Shane Roller vs. Jacob Volkmann-

This is an interesting fight between 2 high level wrestlers. All signs in this fight are pointing to Roller winning it; he was the better college wrestler, he has the better stand-up but for some reason I think Volkmann will end up getting the decision victory. It should be a close one but Volkmann always seems to end up on the right side of scrambles.

Volkmann via Dec

Diego Nunes vs. Bart Palaszewski-

Nunes should take this fight to the ground from the start and not even mix it up with Bart on his feet. If he does this it will be a boring grind it out fight but will ultimately earn Nunes the dec victory. If Bart has his way it will be an exciting slugfest and Bart should be able to win. I have to side with Nunes fighting the smarter fight and winning in a snoozefest.

Nunes via Dec

Phil Harris vs. Darren Uyenoyama-

I have to preface this fight by saying that I do not know much about Phil Harris so I can only go off his record and what I know about Uyenoyama. I think Uyenoyama will use his great wrestling skills to get this fight to the ground and grind out a dec victory.

Uyenoyama via dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 4 p.m. ET)

Marcus LeVesseur vs. Carlo Prater-

Prater has struggled lately with aggressive power punchers and he will be facing another one here. LeVesseur should pour the pace on from the start and not allow Prater to get comfortable. If he does this he should be able to finish him off late in round 1.

LeVesseur via TKO round 1

Mike Pierce vs. Aaron Simpson-

I am a big fan of both of these fighters an hate to pick either one over the other. Being that they are very similar fighters I think Simpson will pull out a dec victory here because Pierce has problems facing wrestlers that are as good or better than himself.

Simpson via Dec

UFC on Fuel TV 5 breakdown

UFC on FUEL TV 5: Struve vs. Miocic

Date: Sep 29, 2012

Location: Nottingham, England

Venue: Capital FM Arena

Broadcast: FUEL TV and Facebook 

MAIN CARD (FUEL TV, 4 p.m. ET)

Stipe Miocic vs. Stefan Struve-

Although Struve has the size advantage Miocic has a big edge in punching power and he will show that here as he knocks Struve out late in round 1

Miocic via KO round 1

Dan Hardy vs. Amir Sadollah-

Amir should be able to keep his distance and stay away from the only real threat that Hardy possesses in this fight, his left hook.

Amir via Dec

Yves Jabouin vs. Brad Pickett-

This is not a fight i am that excited for but it could turn out being a great fight. Jabouin is fast and powerful and Pickett has a great chin. I think Jabouin gets the better of him but doesn't do enough to earn the KO.

Jabouin via dec

Paul Sass vs. Matt Wiman-

This is the fight i am looking forward to most on the card. Paul Sass will pull guard early int he fight and submit Wiman via Triangle in round 1

Sass via Sub round 1

John Hathaway vs. John Maguire-

Maguire is a good fighter but Hathaway is more well rounded and will do enough to earn the decision victory.

Hathaway via dec

Duane Ludwig vs. Che Mills-

This fight is a toss up in my opinion. Either one of these guys can steal the fight, I believe Mills will do that with the home crowd behind him. The best route to victory is to take ludwig down and grind out the dec. but mills will probably stand with him, so he needs to avoid the power.

Mills via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 1 p.m. ET)

Kyle Kingsbury vs. Jimi Manuwa-

Manuwa is a beast!!! He is a vicious Ko Artist that has looked impressive vs competition in England. Now he has stepped up to the UFC but Kingsbury isn't exactly top caliber. I think Manuwa rocks him early and puts him away.

Manuwa via KO round 1

Akira Corassani vs. Andy Ogle-

This fight should be a good fight. I am leaning towards Ogle based off his heart. This guy proved me wrong every time i wrote him off in the reality show and i feel it will be no different here.

Ogle via Dec

Brad Tavares vs. Tom Watson-

If Watson can keep this fight on the feet he has a good chance here but Tavares has decent wrestling skills that may pose a problem. I think Watson can keep it standing long enough to do damage.

Watson via TKO round 2

DaMarques Johnson vs. Gunnar Nelson-

Once again another bad match up for johnson, Gunnar will take johnson down and from there it is only a matter of time before he locks in a submission.

Nelson via sub round 1

Robert Peralta vs. Jason Young-

Peralta should take this fight no problem.He has looked talented in his strikeforce/ufc stint whereas young has not been impressive in the slightest.

Peralta via Dec

UFC 152 Breakdown

UFC 152: Jones vs. Belfort
Date: Sep 22, 2012
Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Venue: Air Canada Centre
Broadcast: Pay-per-view, FX and Facebook 


MAIN CARD (Pay per view, 10 p.m. ET)
Champ Jon Jones vs. Vitor Belfort - for light-heavyweight title-
I would love for Belfort to KO Jones but the fact is that Belfort is not nearly the same threat at 205lbs as he is at 185lbs. Jones will use his size advantage to keep the distance, throw awkward shots and put Belfort away in round 1. However, Belfort catching him is not out of the question.
Jones via TKO round 1 


Joseph Benavidez vs. Demetrious Johnson - for inaugural flyweight title-
Joey B all day in this fight. Benavidez will fight this fight similar to all of his in the past and use his relentless takedowns en route to a decision victory and claim the first flyweight title.
Benavidez via Dec


Michael Bisping vs. Brian Stann-
At first I thought that this was a clear cut victory for Bisping but after much research and watching fight film I now think this fight sets up perfectly for Stann. Stann has struggled against fighters that are good wrestlers, this is not the case here. Bisping although the more technical fighter will want to stand and box it out. I think this give Stann many opportunities to land the big shot that ends Bisping's night.
Stann via TKO round 2


Matt Hamill vs. Roger Hollett-
Both fighters have been off for nearly a year and while I question the heart of Hamill I am leaning towards him in this fight slightly. This is the type of match that plays into the hands of Hamill because in my opinion he holds the advantage on the feet and in the wrestling aspect of this fight. Those 2 things combined should allow him to edge out a decision.
Hamill via Dec


Charles Oliveira vs. Cub Swanson-
This is an interesting fight and one that I am really excited for, Swanson has a more well-rounded game and holds a huge advantage on his feet where as Oliveira is somewhat lacking on his feet but is a beast on the ground. I think the difference in this fight will be Swanson's speed and takedown defense. This fight will stay standing and Swanson will win via TKO round 2.
Swanson TKO round 2




PRELIMINARY CARD (FX, 8 p.m. ET)


Vinny Magalhaes vs. Igor Pokrajac-
I want to pick Vinny in this match but I cannot come to terms with the idea that he has turned the corner in his career. If he has any of the same fighter he was in the ultimate fighter house in him he will get KO'd vs Pokrajac. And that is exactly what I think will happen, I think this fight stays standing and will be a 1st round KO.
Pokrajac via KO round 1




Evan Dunham vs. T.J. Grant-
This is a match up of 2 guys that I feel are highly over rated, Grant is good in the grappling game but has lost to all mid/upper level talent that he has faced. Dunham on the other hand is on the comeback trail since being brought back to reality by Sherk and Guillard. I think Dunham has a rather easy time in this fight winning by TKO in round 1.
Dunham TKO round 1


Lance Benoist vs. Sean Pierson-
The records indicate that this fight should be very one sided however I think Pierson has a good chance here. I see Pierson keeping the fight standing and out pointing Benoist to a decisive decision victory.
Pierson via Dec


Marcus Brimage vs. Jim Hettes-
Hettes is a stud, he will get this fight to the ground and from there it will be a matter of time before he submits Brimage. Brimage holds a big advantage on his feet but he won't have long to exploit that before he is taken down.
Hettes via Sub round 1




PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 6:30 p.m. ET)


Seth Baczynski vs. Simeon Thoresen-
This is fight that could be a play for the underdog fans. I am not sure of the odds because they are not out yet but I am assuming Seth to be the favorite here based off the fact that he is more popular to the mainstream fans. Thoresen comes into this fight holding a 17-2 record and is a beast on the ground. He trains with a top camp in Norway and I believe is poised here to insert his name into the potential contenders list in the Welterweight division.
Thoresen via Sub round 2


Mitch Gagnon vs. Walel Watson-
Watson was impressive in his 1st UFC match but has been rather lackluster since in his next 2 fights. Gagnon is a good fighter that was impressive in a losing effort to highly ranked Bryan Caraway. I think Gagnon controls this fight and has a chance to submit Watson but will most likely win via Decision.
Gagnon via Dec


Charlie Brenneman vs. Kyle Noke-
On paper this fight looks to be a rather close one and one that could go either way. I see Brenneman shooting in to take this fight to the ground early where he will control Noke for the entirety of the next 3 rounds. Brenneman will get the nod in an uneventful fight.
Brenneman via Dec

Strikeforce: Rousey vs Kaufman

MAIN CARD (Showtime)

Champ Ronda Rousey vs. Sarah Kaufman (for women's bantamweight title)-

Kaufman will have a very lopsided edge on the feet but it will be only a matter of time until Ronda uses he olympic level judo to get the fight to the ground. From there an arm bar should be coming within a minute of them grappling.

Rousey via Sub round 1

Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza vs. Derek Brunson-

Brunson comes in with an impressive 9-1 record but that is insignificant when faced with a top level talent such as jacare. Brunson lost his last fight vs Kendall Grove and should pose minimal threat in this one. Look for Jacare to use his boxing to set up the takedown. While there he will use his world class grappling to finish the fight in round 2.

Jacare via Sub round 2

Roger Bowling vs. Tarec Saffiedine-

This fight should be an exciting one. Bowling likes to come forward and push the pace, this should play right intone the hands of Saffiedine who will be more than happy for this fight to remain standing. Saffiedine's only real challenges in his career have come against wrestlers, fortunately for him this fight will not go to the ground. Saffiedine will outpoint bowling to earn a decision victory.

Saffiedine via Decision

Lumumba Sayers vs. Anthony Smith-

Even though Smith has seemingly turned the corner in his career I still think he lacks the submission game to compete with the likes of Sayers. I see Sayers taking him down early in the first and finishing it soon after.

Sayers via Sub round 1

T.J. Cook vs. Ovince St. Preux-

This fight should be interest because OSP is a up and coming fighter that has a ton of skill. I have not seen many of Cook's fights but from what I have seen he seems to be a Knockout artists that lacks a submission game. OSP should be able to use his jab to keep the distance and outpoint Cook in what could be a war.

OSP via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (Showtime Extreme)

Julie Kedzie vs. Miesha Tate-

This fight should be a war and its a shame it won't be showcased on the main card. Both fighters won't hesitate to thrown down on their feet and both have an exciting grappling. I think Tate will end up getting the upper hand in this fight and win an exciting decision. 

Tate via Dec

Bobby Green vs. Matt Ricehouse-

I am really looking forward to this fight! Bobby Green is a good up and coming talent that has mixed it up with some of the more noted guys in the 155lb division outside of the UFC. Ricehouse is also an up and comer that has beaten Randy Couture's son and Jiu Jitsu ace Bill Cooper. I think Green controls the majority of this fight by taking it to the ground but Ricehouse will have a good enough grappling came to stay out of trouble. Green should eek out a very close decision.

Green via Dec

Adlan Amagov vs. Keith Berry-

This should be a showcase fight for Amagov. Both men are knockout artists that will be swinging for the fences early and often. I think Amagov connects with a big blow and ends this one early in round 1.

Amagov via KO round 1

Germaine de Randamie vs. Hiroko Yamanaka-

I am not sure the odds in this fight but I am pretty sure Yamanaka is a big favorite in this one. In order to win this fight Yamanaka needs to get Randamie to the ground in order to get the upper hand in this fight. I think she will struggle with that as Randamie uses her far superior dutch kickboxing skills to land some big blows and knock out Yamanaka to score the huge upset.

Randamie via KO round 2

UFC 150 Breakdown

UFC 150

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)

Champ Benson Henderson vs. Frankie Edgar (for lightweight title)-

The fight will be a close one. Henderson took the first one in a great fight but look for Edgar to come in with a better game plan here. This fight can truly go either way but for the purpose of this breakdown I lean slightly towards the way of Frankie Edgar.

Edgar via close dec

Donald Cerrone vs. Melvin Guillard-

This fight should be an easy one. I am a fan of both fighters but from what I heard Cerrone shouldn't have a problem here. Apparently during the time of these two men training together at Jackson's camp Cerrone would guillotine Melvin the majority of time during their sparring sessions. While Melvin's sub defense has gotten extremely better, I do not think it has improved enough to deal with Cerrone.

Cerrone via Sub round 1

Jake Shields vs. Ed Herman-

Sheilds holds a huge advantage in this fight in the wrestling and grappling aspect. I look for Shields to put Herman on his back early where he will control him throughout. While it is possible to get a submission for Shields I think he grinds out a decision.

Shields via Dec

Yushin Okami vs. Buddy Roberts-

This fight will be a lot closer than the odds suggest. Okami should win this fight by taking Roberts down to the ground and closing the distance in the clinch. Roberts key to victory is keeping away from Okami and not allowing him Okami to get a hold of him. I am going to go against my original pick ad go with Roberts in this one. I think he will land the jab more effectively and out point Okami in what could be a close decision.

Roberts via Dec 

Justin Lawrence vs. Max Holloway-

I was not impressed at all be Lawrence in the ultimate fighter house and I thought he looked overrated in his first fight out of the house. Holloway was impressive in his fight vs Schilling. I understand the Schilling is not by any means a good fighter but Holloway's stand up was very impressive. Lawrence needs to go back to his wrestling roots, fight smart and take this fight to the ground. I am not confident in him doing this and that will allow Holloway to pick him apart and take a decision victory.

Halloway via Dec

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX, 8 p.m. ET)

Dennis Bermudez vs. Tom Hayden-

Bermudez will use his takedowns to control the fight. While on the ground Bermudez will do enough to earn a lopsided decision but I do not think he will be able to finish the fight.

Bermudez via Decision

Jared Hamman vs. Michael Kuiper-

This fight will be fireworks!!! Both men love to brawl it out and both have a ton of power. I believe the difference in this fight is Kuiper has the better chin. When it comes to a slugfest the man with the better chin usually has the advantage. I believe this is the case here as Kuiper blasts Hamman early in round 1.

Kuiper via KO round 1

Ken Stone vs. Erik Perez-

This should be a pretty good fight but I think that Perez holds the slight advantage. Perez has great submission defense as well as a polished grappling game himself. Stone has turned a corner in his career and has looked good in his last few contests. I think Perez will do enough to stay out of trouble and pull out the decision.

Perez vía Decision

Nik Lentz vs. Eiji Mitsuoka-

This fight should be all Lentz. Mitsuoka has an impressive resume but he is in the twilight of his career facing a much larger opponent in Lentz who is cutting down to make his debut at 145lbs. Lentz should take him to get ground, out muscle him and ground and pound his way to a decision.

Lentz via Decision

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook, 7:30 p.m. ET)

Dustin Pague vs. Chico Camus-

Many experts are leaning towards Pague in this one, however I have not been impressed with Pague and feel that Camus will pull the upset. If Camus can keep the fight standing he should find himself holding a clear cut advantage on the feet where he can pull out a decision victory.

Camus via Decision

UFC on Fox 4 breakdown

MAIN CARD (FOX)

Mauricio "Shogun" Rua vs. Brandon Vera-

This is a BAD matchup for Vera, he has been unimpressive as of late and will end up in a striking match with one of the biggest hitters in the division. With Vera being out struck and not being able to get the fight to the ground it will only be a matter of time before Shogun finishes this fight.

Shogun via TKO round 2

Ryan Bader vs. Lyoto Machida-

This fight is interesting because it seems Machida's heart isn't really in the fight game anymore. That being said I still think his advantages far out weight the negatives here. Bader we undoubtedly be looking to take the fight to the ground and with the elusiveness of Machida that will prove to be a daunting task. I believe Machida will pick Bader apart and keep his distance en route to a decision victory.

Machida via Dec

Joe Lauzon vs. Jamie Varner-

I have been going back and forth on this one but I think Varner has the tools to win this fight. The last few fights he has really gotten his game back on track and has been impressive. Lauzon has looked good too but the key for him to win this fight is to get it to the ground, however Varner is a far superior wrestler and will keep the fight standing where he should be able to finish him in the 2nd round

Varner via TKO round 2

DaMarques Johnson vs. Mike Swick-

Swick has been off for over 2 years with a stomach disease and I feel the UFC did him a real favor in his return bout. Johnson leaves himself exposed in his stand up exchanges and lacks the submission defense on the ground to deal with anything that Swick can offer him. I actually think this will be a quick fight for Swick as he is eager to show the world that he is back.

Swick via KO round 1

PRELIMINARY CARD (FUEL TV)

Cole Miller vs. Nam Phan-

Miller should be able to get this fight to the ground early and often, from there he will be trying submission after submission. Phan will look to keep the fight standing where he holds a slight edge. I think the pressure that Miller will utilize will keep Phan from implementing his game plan and ultimately result in a Decision victory for Miller.

Miller via Decision

Phil Davis vs. Wagner Prado-

If you look at the records of these two men you would think that this would be a good fight. Davis comes in at 9-1 with his only loss to Rashad Evans and Prado comes in with an 8-0 record with 7 wins coming by knockout (6 in the first round). But what their record don't tell you is that Prado's is very padded, the best fighter he has caught was 7-4 and that is the only fighter above .500 in his record. Davis should be able to use his far superior wrestling to take this fight to the ground and choke Prado out in round 1.

Davis via Submission round 1

Josh Grispi vs. Rani Yahya-

Grispi has had a rough go at things since entering the UFC but in this fight he holds huge advantage on his feet and as long as he can keep this fight standing to avoid Yahya's submission game he should find himself getting that first elusive UFC victory.

Grispi via Decision

Phil De Fries vs. Oli Thompson-

The key to this fight is if De Fries can get the bigger stronger Oli Thompson to the ground. If he does it should be all De Fries from there but if Thompson fends off the takedowns this fight favor Thompson's superior striking.Eventually De Fries will get this fight to the ground and work his submission game. While I think that De Fries can submit him I think Thompson will be able to muscle out of some of them and do enough to make it to the end.

De Fries via Decision

Manny Gamburyan vs. Michihiro Omigawa-

This fight should be a good one between to fighters that have fallen far over the past years and the loser will pretty much get his pink slip and be done in the UFC. I think Gamburyan will win this fight by using his power punches to either rock Omigawa or to set up the takedown and grind him out.

Gamburyan via Decision

Ulysses Gomez vs. John Moraga-

Ulysses Gomez is the real deal!!! He has good boxing and an awesome submission game. He is finally fighting at his right weight class having been the champion of Tachi Palace at 135lbs he has had no problem there and should thrive at 125. Moraga comes in with an impressive looking record however the record of his opponents beaten is 14-19 with only 2 of those fighters having an above .500 record and 3 of them have never had a victory in their lives inkling Moraga's last win. Judging off their record's this fight should be a good one but in reality Gomez is going to come out and mop the floor with Moraga.

Gomez vía Decison

Quick UFC 149 Breakdown

Faber via UD

Lombard via TKO round 1

Jordan via KO round 1

Ebersole via submission round 2

Riddle via UD

Ring via UD

Delorme via Sub round 1

Jimmo via UD

Caraway via Sub round 1

Pineda via UD

Clarke via Sub round 2

KO of the night- Jordan

Sub of the night- Caraway

Fight of the night- Faber vs. Barao

Strikeforce: Rockhold vs Kennedy

Date: Jul 14, 2012

Location: Portland, Oregon

Venue: Rose Garden

Broadcast: Showtime and Showtime Extreme

MAIN CARD (Showtime)

Champ Luke Rockhold vs. Tim Kennedy (for middleweight title)-

Kennedy will look to get this fight to the ground early and often however with Rockhold that is easier said than done. Even if Kennedy does get the fight into his world, Rockhold should have no problem getting back to his feet and avoiding any damage. Rockhold holds a substantial edge on the feet and should be able to pick Kennedy apart and frustrate him throughout the course of the fight.

Rockhold via Decision

Nate Marquardt vs. Tyron Woodley (for vacant welterweight title)-

Marquardt has had a problem facing good wrestlers throughout the course of his career. Woodley is quick and has excellent wrestling and should pose a big problem here for Marquardt. Also being off for 16 months might have a negative effect on Marquardt, Woodley should be able to earn a decisive decision victory.

Woodley via Decision

Roger Gracie vs. Keith Jardine-

Jardine has some pretty good takedown defense which will serve him well in this fight. If Gracie can get it there he could make short work of Jardine and he could be looking at the first submission loss of his career. I think Gracie will get him down early in the first and lock in a submission by late first round.

Gracie via sub round 1

Lorenz Larkin vs. Robbie Lawler-

When first looking at this fight I thought Larkin would be able to walk through Lawler, but after looking further into it I think Lawler will test his chin and eventually put him out in the 2nd round.

Lawler via KO round 2

PRELIMINARY CARD (Showtime Extreme)

Jorge Masvidal vs. Justin Wilcox-

If this fight remains standing Masvidal has the power to make for big problems for Wilcox, Fortunately enough for Wilcox he is the stronger of the 2 competitors and will use his boxing to set up his takedowns en route to grinding out a decision victory.

Wilcox via Decision

Pat Healy vs. Mizuto Hirota-

Healy has looked good the past few years and has only really lost to the top guys in the division. Hirota on the other hand looked to be a beast in Japan until he got his arm snapped by Aoki. Since the broken arm he has won 2 fights by decision but has not looked like the beast that he was before that fight. This fight he will look to get back on track but Healy has the size advantage and more well rounded game to edge out a decision victory.

Healy via Decision

Jordan Mein vs. Tyler Stinson-

This fight should be exciting right from the start. Both fighters like to come out of the gate swinging and both have a very good chin. This fight can truly go either way but I see Mein winning a decision.

Mein via Decision

Jason High vs. Nate Moore-

Jason High will look to shoot in for the takedown early and often. He should have no problem getting the fight to the ground and using his relentless, fast paced ground and pound to wear Moore down en route to a decisive decision victory.

High via Decision

Ryan Couture vs. Joe Duarte-

Couture has looked better in every fight and this one should be no different. I see this one playing out with Duarte having a slight edge in the stand up before Couture takes it to the ground and grinds out a decision victory.

Couture via Decision

UFC on Fuel TV 4: Munoz vs. Weidman

Date: Jul 11, 2012

Location: San Jose, California

Venue: HP Pavilion

Broadcast: FUEL TV and Facebook

MAIN CARD (FUEL TV)

Mark Munoz vs. Chris Weidman-

This fight should be a close one throughout, both fighters and similar in every aspect of the game. They both have good wrestling, decent grappling and improving stand-up. Munoz holds the edge in experience, while Weidman looked better vs. their common opponent Damien Maia. I give the slight edge to Weidman in this fight based off the belief that he might be able to steal close rounds with late takedowns. I can see this being a 48-47 decision in favor of Weidman and possibly a split decision.

Weidman via close Decision

Joey Beltran vs. James Te Huna-

I am excited for this one, both of these fighters like to come out throwing. Unfortunately for Beltran this plays into the strength of Te Huna, as he has only really had issues with competition on the ground. Beltran doesn't pack as big of a punch so I think he could be in trouble early. Beltran has a pretty good chin though so he might be able to make into the later rounds to test Te Huna's cardio but I wouldn't count on it.

Te Huna via TKO round 1

Kenny Robertson vs. Aaron Simpson-

This fight could be close, neither fighter has had much success vs. good competition but Simpson cutting down in weight might play a big factor here. Being that Simpson is a life long wrestler I think he will handle the weight cut just fine and him coming in as the bigger fighter will allow him to out muscle Robertson. The key for Simpson to win this fight is to take advantage of his advantage in the stand-up and avoid submissions from the ground. Simpson should beat Robertson up on the feet in the first round, continue the same in the second before he stuns Robertson and take him to the ground finishing off a TKO victory in mid-way through round 2.

Simpson TKO round 2

Francis Carmont vs. Karlos Vemola-

Vemola holds a big edge in the strength department in this fight but has looked horrible on his feet and vs mid-level talent in the UFC. Carmont on the other hand thrives in stand-up and while he has faced some good competition outside of the UFC those matches have resulted in losses. If Carmont can keep this fight standing he should be able to pick Vemola apart and finish him early in the 2nd round.

Carmont via TKO round 2

T.J. Dillashaw vs. Vaughan Lee-

This fight plays right into Dillashaw's strengths, Dillashaw is highly skilled on the ground and Lee lacks submission defense. This basic fact should make for an early stoppage here and Dillashaw will get lee to the ground early in the first. From there it will only be a matter of time before he sinks in a choke and finishes the fight late in round 1.

Dillashaw via Sub round 1

Rafael dos Anjos vs. Anthony Njokuani-

This is an interesting fight because Njokuani struggles when taken to the ground, but his love for throwing kicks make him susceptible to being take down and Dos Anjos possesses the BJJ game to finish it if the fight ends up there. However, if the fight remains standing Njokuani should be able to pick apart Dos Anjos. I am leaning towards Njokuani here to impose his will and pull out a decision.

Njokuani via Decision

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook)

Alex Caceres vs. Damacio Page-

I am not a fan of either fighter in this one and will not be sad one bit when the loser finds himself no longer with the UFC. However in a match where I must pick a winner I am giving the edge to Damcio Page. Page is a slight underdog and has struggled since coming back from injury. However, those losses have come against Demetrious Johnson, Brian Bowles and Brad Pickett. I feel that all these fighters are way better that Caceres, who has struggled vs lesser competition.

Page via Decision

Chris Cariaso vs. Josh Ferguson-

I am surprised that this fight is nearly a pick em. Cariaso should be able to impose his will in this fight throughout. He has only lost to 2 contenders over the past 4 years and looked really good in his last fight vs. Mizugaki. Now with the drop into his correct weight class he should excel and be a major contender in the near future. Ferguson has horrible stand up and the only real way he can win this fight is by getting it to the ground. I do not see this happening and Cariaso should win by UD

Cariaso via Decision

Andrew Craig vs. Rafael Natal-

Craig looked good vs Noke on short notice last time out but Natal's skill set are a whole different animal for him to deal with. Natal has the advantage in every aspect of this fight and should be able to impose his will enough to earn judge's decision.

Natal via Decision

Marcelo Guimaraes vs. Dan Stittgen-

Guimaraes is the jungle fight champion but has not looked especially dominant in his previous fights. Stittgen on the other hand has been in the cage with higher level talent but hasn't had much success with that talent. I look for Guimaraes to hold the strength advantage and the skill set to impose his will in this fight en route to a decision victory.

Guimaraes via Decision

Raphael Assuncao vs. Issei Tamura-

Assuncao has not looked particularly good in his past few fights but he should have the skill set to deal with Tamura. I see Assuncao grinding out a decision victory here in a lackluster fight.

Assuncao via Decision

UFC 148: Silva vs. Sonnen II

Date: Jul 07, 2012

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Venue: MGM Grand Garden Arena

Broadcast: Pay-per-view, FX and Facebook 

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view)

Champ Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen (for middleweight title)-

I have been going back and forth on this fight, every time I think about it I see a different outcome happening in my head. This can really only go one of two way; either Sonnen will come out, control the fight and win a decision or Silva will come out firing looking for the KO and finish the fight relatively early. I had almost come to the decision that Silva would finish this fight by KO but I am now thinking this fight will go in Sonnen's favor. Sonnen will be able to close the distance and take Silva down but while on the ground he needs to get into half guard to avoid Silva's slick submission game so he can grind out a decision victory.

Sonnen via Decision

Forrest Griffin vs. Tito Ortiz-

For nostalgia purposes I want to see Tito win this one and ride into the sunset, however that will be easier said than done. Both of their first 2 fights went to split decision and this one has a good shot at doing the same. Forest has been off for almost a year, so he will be fighting off ring rust as well as a hungry fighter who will be looking to put a stamp on his hall of fame career. If Tito wants to win he will try to put Forest on his back after a minute or two of feeling out the stand up. Forest does not have the greatest takedown defense and if Tito can impose his will I see him getting the nod from the judges

Tito via Decision

Patrick Cote vs. Cung Le-

Cung Le has a great and exciting stand up game but often leaves himself open for big shots from his opponent and lacks the chin to handle that flaw effectively. Cote is the type of fighter that waits for those holes and picks his spot to attack. Cote will try to cut off the ring, close the distance and push Cung agaist the cage. Cung will try to keep his distance use his kicks and try to stay away showing a superior standing skill set. I think this type of match will favor Cung and he will be able to outpoint Cote to earn his first victory in the UFC.

Cung via Decision

Dong Hyun Kim vs. Demian Maia-

Maia dropped weight for this fight and cuts down to welterweight for the first time in his career. The UFC in turn rewarded him with a hard uphill battle that will either put Maia immediately in the title picture or make him into the division's gatekeeper. Maia has not been in good form lately and this fight should end up being a long night for him. Kim has the skills to take advantage of this fight on the feet and negative most of Maia's offense on the ground. Look for Kim to keep the fight standing where he will dominate for 15 minutes.

Kim via Decision

Chad Mendes vs. Cody McKenzie-

I do not know why the UFC would put these 2 men together at this point in their career. McKenzie is a fan favorite who looks to be a prospect for the future whereas Mendes just fought for the title in his last fight. This fight should be easy for Mendes, all he really has to do is stay away from the guillotine choke because he outclasses McKenzie in every aspect of this fight. This seems like the type of fight in which Mendes would be able to finish the fight early but I see a lopsided decision victory for him.

Mendes via Decision

Mike Easton vs. Ivan Menjivar-

This fight should be action packed and can really go either way. Easton is taking this fight on semi-short notice but he has had enough time to prepare so that should not be an issue. Easton will likely come out throwing bombs while looking to clinch up, use his knees and take the fight down to impose his will. Menjivar will likely be looking for the same thing. I see Menjivar imposing his will on the fight more effectively and pulling out a decision here in a fast paced scrap.

Menjivar via Decision

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX)

Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Gleison Tibau-

Despite a 17-0 record Khabib has not really faced true competition, even his last fight with Shalorus he fought a fighter who seemed to be in there more for a paycheck than a desire to win. He will not get such easy competition with Tibau. Tibau will be able to win the war of strength in the clinches and be able to take Khabib down and submit him in round 2

Tibau via sub round 2

Fabricio Camoes vs. Melvin Guillard-

Melvin claims that he is a more patient fight but that is something I will have to see before I can believe it. Somewhat lucky for him he is facing a ground specialist that Melvin will be able to pick apart of the feet. That could be a good thing for Melvin or not depending on how aggressive he is in closing in for the kill. Melvin has had a problem in the past rushing in and gutting caught in a submission. So the key to this fight is all Melvin, it is his fight to win or lose. I think he will KO Camoes in round 1.

Guillard via KO round 1

Riki Fukuda vs. Constantinos Philippou-

Philippou should be able to keep this fight standing where he will use his far superior boxing skills to out point Fukuda. I think he might be able to get the KO but Fukuda has shown to be tough so I think it will go the distance.

Philippou via Decision

John Alessio vs. Shane Roller-

I  don't know what has been going on with Roller lately but he hasn't been the same type of fighter he was in the WEC. Knowing that this is a must-win fight for him I look for him to bring some of that thunder back and really look to put a stamp on this one to show he belongs. Alessio is a seasoned vet but has many holes in his game that Roller should be able to exploit.

Roller via Sub round 2

PRELIMINARY CARD (Facebook)

Yoislandy Izquierdo vs. Rafaello Oliveira-

I do not see this fight lasting past the 1st round, Izquierdo will come out hungry and look to finish Oliveira early. Unfortunately for Oliveira he will not be able to handle the early onslaught. He will find him knocked out of this fight and the UFC by the time the first round's bell rings.

Izquierdo Via KO round 1