Chuck Liddell vs. Rich Franklin – This could be an exciting fight, but not quite relevant. Liddell is the more powerful puncher, but age has caught up to him. Amidst his losses, Franklin still fights the same way he did 2 years ago, it’s just that he has been fighting better opponents. Franklin can win this on the stand-up and on the ground. Liddell has a solid takedown defense, so the majority of the fight will stay standing. Franklin will out-punch Liddell and win by KO.
Franklin by KO – Rd. 2
Mirko Crocop vs. Pat Barry – This is a great opportunity for Barry to make a name for himself. Both fighters are kickboxers, so this fight will not go to the ground. Barry is the younger, and more aggressive fighter. On the other hand, Crocop has more experience, but his recent fights weren’t too impressive. Speed will be the key in this fight. Barry will out-strike Crocop, and win by TKO via body shots.
Barry by TKO – Rd. 3
Paulo Thiago vs. Martin Kampmann – Thiago is the only guy who has a TKO win over Josh Koscheck, in his UFC debut. Kampmann is a seasoned fighter, having beaten top contenders like Thales Leites, his experience will be the key in the fight. Thiago is fast, and will throw punches from different angles, and his BJJ is also amazing. But, I feel that Kampmann is experienced enough to deal with Thiago. Thiago might be quicker, but Kampmann is more technical. Thiago will stand toe to toe with Kampmann and will pay the price.
Kampmann by TKO – Rd. 2
Ben Rothwell vs. Gilbert Yvel – Big Ben has a solid chin, but isn’t the fastest striker around. On the other end, Yvel is a solid kickboxer, but isn’t as technical as he should be. He’s like a kangaroo in the cage, he will hop around and try to go for a KO. But, Ben will capitalize on this, and land a solid counter punch that will end the fight.
Rothwell by KO – Rd. 2
Carlos Condit vs. Rory MacDonald – I’ll go against the grain on this one and say that MacDonald will upset Condit. Condit is an impressive fighter, especially in the WEC. His debut in the UFC was disappointed by Martin Kampmann. But, MacDonald seems like the type of fighter that can pull upsets, his record isn’t as impressive as Condit’s (24-5), but MacDonald is undefeated at 10-0.
MacDonald by TKO – Rd. 3
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