UFC 155: Dos Santos vs. Velasquez
December 29, 2012
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada
December 29, 2012
MGM Grand Garden Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada
Main Card Bouts (PPV):
Junior dos Santos (15-1) vs. Cain Velasquez (10-1) [Rematch] Throw the 1st meeting out when the man called Cain had a bad knee injury and JDS now claims impairment as well. Black House meets AKA again as the JDS power boxing clashes with Velasquez’ elite wrestling prowess. Cain butchered “Bigfoot” last out in a blood bath while Junior crumbled the fading Frank Mir at the same event. I worry that Cain is hittable but when have we seen JDS grounded for a significant amount of time? When the former champion gets his ground game going its hard to think of someone with better G&P at Heavyweight than the now retired Fedor Emelianenko whom he reminds me of. Cain also has KO power to threaten with even if he doesn't have the accuracy of the current Champion. If, I say IF, Cain's healthy knee can mix up the attack and stop JDS from finding a comfortable range, I expect the MexiCAN to test the Brazilian to match his pace and varied attack. Of course it only takes one from JDS I always favor a well rounded game to a singular style any day. An early takedown is crucial but I'm out on the limb looking to set up a trilogy between the best two Heavyweights in the biz today.
Upset Pick WINNER-Cain Velasquez by Rd.4 TKO
Jim Miller (21-4) vs. Joe Lauzon (22-7) The smaller Miller brother has only lost to Nate Diaz, Benson Henderson, Gray Maynard, and Frankie Edgar which is an absolute murderers row. “J-Lau” is more of a middling fighter who gets near the conversation but never in it. Though Jim needs to find more offense in his game he none the less has smothering wrestling and a pace that could give the notoriously cardio challenged Lauzon fits. Joe really tends to lose if he sees the 2nd and especially the 3rd round and Decision winning is what Jim does well. Miller is no stranger to the submission game either which is Joe’s only real shot as Jim has won 12 times with the tap himself. The percentages lean toward Jimmy in all facets as he frustrates Lauzon showing who is the elite artist heading toward that elusive title shot yet again.
WINNER-Jim Miller by Decision
Tim Boetsch (16-4) vs. Costa Philippou (11-2) When Chris Weidman fell out due to injury, I have no idea why Alan Belcher wasn’t bumped up into this bout making it a top contender bout. Anywho, I have oft found the “Barbarian” to be overrated as he got a gift against Hector Lombard, narrowly came back from near death against Yushin Okami, while defeating lackluster mid to low level fighters at Middleweight. The Serra/Longo striker is a surprise at 185 winning 4 straight while turning heads with boxing level striking and general toughness. Still, Tim knows his game gaining top control and punishing his adversary’s while Costa has not proven himself on said mat area. This isn’t going to be very pretty but unless Costa has out of this world takedown defense, he’s going hit the floor eventually and fearing the takedown while standing.
WINNER-Tim Boetsch by Decision
Yushin Okami (27-7) vs. Alan Belcher (18-6) [Rematch] Interestingly enough, it was way back in ’06 when the “Talent” got his 1st UFC bout on short notice against the “Thunder” warrior. Since Alan has gone 9-3 dropping a few but growing vastly as a fighter and have most of his woes against the injury bug. Okami since the 1st meeting has gone 10-4 losing only to the best of the division notably getting thrashed by Anderson Silva and blowing a big lead recently to Tim Boetsch. While Belcher seems to be improving Yushin seems to be waining in his career searching for confidence and a groove. Its the story of catching a guy at the right time for Belcher who is finding his way using his stellar kickboxing to his advantage while ready with the submissions if/when Okami takes him down. “Thunder” isn’t going to make it easy but Alan adds enough power when needed while not feeling threatened on the feet putting together the biggest win of his career thus far!
Upset Pick WINNER-Alan Belcher by Decision
Chris Leben (22-8) vs. Derek Brunson (9-2) The “Crippler” is back for his 92nd chance to redeem himself after a DUI arrest, steroid use, and most recently getting popped for Oxycontin among his normal doucheness and yet another year long suspension. Brunson gets to be the 1st call up from Strikeforce at their final imminent demise to fill in for Karlos Vemola and showcase his “Hurricane” striking. Leben has the ability to get hurt in a fight, then going into Zombie mode and landing a KO left hand with eyes glazed. This is a nightmare match up for Derek who got lamped only 0:41 into his last bout and taking a giant leap in competition. Wrestling is the key for Brunson but sooner or later that killing blow will connect and Derek’s lights will go out.
WINNER-Chris Leben by Rd.2 KO
Junior dos Santos (15-1) vs. Cain Velasquez (10-1) [Rematch] Throw the 1st meeting out when the man called Cain had a bad knee injury and JDS now claims impairment as well. Black House meets AKA again as the JDS power boxing clashes with Velasquez’ elite wrestling prowess. Cain butchered “Bigfoot” last out in a blood bath while Junior crumbled the fading Frank Mir at the same event. I worry that Cain is hittable but when have we seen JDS grounded for a significant amount of time? When the former champion gets his ground game going its hard to think of someone with better G&P at Heavyweight than the now retired Fedor Emelianenko whom he reminds me of. Cain also has KO power to threaten with even if he doesn't have the accuracy of the current Champion. If, I say IF, Cain's healthy knee can mix up the attack and stop JDS from finding a comfortable range, I expect the MexiCAN to test the Brazilian to match his pace and varied attack. Of course it only takes one from JDS I always favor a well rounded game to a singular style any day. An early takedown is crucial but I'm out on the limb looking to set up a trilogy between the best two Heavyweights in the biz today.
Upset Pick WINNER-Cain Velasquez by Rd.4 TKO
Jim Miller (21-4) vs. Joe Lauzon (22-7) The smaller Miller brother has only lost to Nate Diaz, Benson Henderson, Gray Maynard, and Frankie Edgar which is an absolute murderers row. “J-Lau” is more of a middling fighter who gets near the conversation but never in it. Though Jim needs to find more offense in his game he none the less has smothering wrestling and a pace that could give the notoriously cardio challenged Lauzon fits. Joe really tends to lose if he sees the 2nd and especially the 3rd round and Decision winning is what Jim does well. Miller is no stranger to the submission game either which is Joe’s only real shot as Jim has won 12 times with the tap himself. The percentages lean toward Jimmy in all facets as he frustrates Lauzon showing who is the elite artist heading toward that elusive title shot yet again.
WINNER-Jim Miller by Decision
Tim Boetsch (16-4) vs. Costa Philippou (11-2) When Chris Weidman fell out due to injury, I have no idea why Alan Belcher wasn’t bumped up into this bout making it a top contender bout. Anywho, I have oft found the “Barbarian” to be overrated as he got a gift against Hector Lombard, narrowly came back from near death against Yushin Okami, while defeating lackluster mid to low level fighters at Middleweight. The Serra/Longo striker is a surprise at 185 winning 4 straight while turning heads with boxing level striking and general toughness. Still, Tim knows his game gaining top control and punishing his adversary’s while Costa has not proven himself on said mat area. This isn’t going to be very pretty but unless Costa has out of this world takedown defense, he’s going hit the floor eventually and fearing the takedown while standing.
WINNER-Tim Boetsch by Decision
Yushin Okami (27-7) vs. Alan Belcher (18-6) [Rematch] Interestingly enough, it was way back in ’06 when the “Talent” got his 1st UFC bout on short notice against the “Thunder” warrior. Since Alan has gone 9-3 dropping a few but growing vastly as a fighter and have most of his woes against the injury bug. Okami since the 1st meeting has gone 10-4 losing only to the best of the division notably getting thrashed by Anderson Silva and blowing a big lead recently to Tim Boetsch. While Belcher seems to be improving Yushin seems to be waining in his career searching for confidence and a groove. Its the story of catching a guy at the right time for Belcher who is finding his way using his stellar kickboxing to his advantage while ready with the submissions if/when Okami takes him down. “Thunder” isn’t going to make it easy but Alan adds enough power when needed while not feeling threatened on the feet putting together the biggest win of his career thus far!
Upset Pick WINNER-Alan Belcher by Decision
Chris Leben (22-8) vs. Derek Brunson (9-2) The “Crippler” is back for his 92nd chance to redeem himself after a DUI arrest, steroid use, and most recently getting popped for Oxycontin among his normal doucheness and yet another year long suspension. Brunson gets to be the 1st call up from Strikeforce at their final imminent demise to fill in for Karlos Vemola and showcase his “Hurricane” striking. Leben has the ability to get hurt in a fight, then going into Zombie mode and landing a KO left hand with eyes glazed. This is a nightmare match up for Derek who got lamped only 0:41 into his last bout and taking a giant leap in competition. Wrestling is the key for Brunson but sooner or later that killing blow will connect and Derek’s lights will go out.
WINNER-Chris Leben by Rd.2 KO
Prelims (FX):
Brad Pickett (22-6) vs. Eddie Wineland (19-8-1) This bout deserves to be on the main card but that is all I will say on that issue. “One Punch” is knocking on the door of a title shot but Ed has been there and done it all as a former contender and former Champion. Eddie is sneaky powerful and versatile losing a couple decisions to “Alpha Males” (see what I did there?). In pretty even fight, Wineland will have a significant reach advantage while Pickett possesses those submissions that Ed used to succumb to early in his career. The ATT Brit (wha?) has been rolling more recently and has lightning quick transitions that can confuse anyone on the mat. Its going to be back and forth in exciting fashion but I like Pickett to eat some shots but use his mixed attack to earn the judges favor in the end.
WINNER-Brad Pickett by Decision
Erik Perez (12-4) vs. Byron Bloodworth (6-2) “El Goyito” has looked strong winning 7 straight including his 2 UFC bouts. Byron is alright but a bit green for my tastes as the Jackson/Winkeljohn fighter works game against a guy who just sat on the shelf for over a year which is never good unless you are Georges St. Pierre. Perez is getting some press for wearing a Lucha Libre mask to the Octagon but its not really an issue of any importance save for aesthetics.
WINNER-Erik Perez by Decision
Melvin Guillard (30-11-2) vs. Jamie Varner (20-7-1) Ooh this is gonna be a fun grudge match! After Varner got sick at the TUF 16 Finale weigh ins, the bout was cancelled and Melvin began saying Jaime was “scared to fight” him thus halting their scheduled meeting. Melvin is known to shit the bed in the big bouts but he will always possess that sick power and good speed. Varner isn’t afraid to that big mistake either but he is more well rounded fighter but this fight could easily go either way. When in a real war I have to lean toward the former WEC Lightweight Champion who can grapple and look for submissions that seem to be the “Not So Young Assassin’s” Achilles heel. I won’t be surprised either way but ya gotta roll the dice for the underdog sometimes.
Upset Pick WINNER-Jamie Varner by Decision
Michael Johnson (12-6) vs. Myles Jury (10-0) The “0” must go. The Blackzilian may not have the pretty record but he has fought better and improved more with an ability to showcase more skills while the undefeated Jury needs to wrestle to win. “Fury” has only competed once in the big dance while Johnson has become a young veteran who isn’t afraid to put out a video called “Fist In A Box” showing he cannot sing but he doesn’t care.
WINNER-Michael Johnson by Decision
Brad Pickett (22-6) vs. Eddie Wineland (19-8-1) This bout deserves to be on the main card but that is all I will say on that issue. “One Punch” is knocking on the door of a title shot but Ed has been there and done it all as a former contender and former Champion. Eddie is sneaky powerful and versatile losing a couple decisions to “Alpha Males” (see what I did there?). In pretty even fight, Wineland will have a significant reach advantage while Pickett possesses those submissions that Ed used to succumb to early in his career. The ATT Brit (wha?) has been rolling more recently and has lightning quick transitions that can confuse anyone on the mat. Its going to be back and forth in exciting fashion but I like Pickett to eat some shots but use his mixed attack to earn the judges favor in the end.
WINNER-Brad Pickett by Decision
Erik Perez (12-4) vs. Byron Bloodworth (6-2) “El Goyito” has looked strong winning 7 straight including his 2 UFC bouts. Byron is alright but a bit green for my tastes as the Jackson/Winkeljohn fighter works game against a guy who just sat on the shelf for over a year which is never good unless you are Georges St. Pierre. Perez is getting some press for wearing a Lucha Libre mask to the Octagon but its not really an issue of any importance save for aesthetics.
WINNER-Erik Perez by Decision
Melvin Guillard (30-11-2) vs. Jamie Varner (20-7-1) Ooh this is gonna be a fun grudge match! After Varner got sick at the TUF 16 Finale weigh ins, the bout was cancelled and Melvin began saying Jaime was “scared to fight” him thus halting their scheduled meeting. Melvin is known to shit the bed in the big bouts but he will always possess that sick power and good speed. Varner isn’t afraid to that big mistake either but he is more well rounded fighter but this fight could easily go either way. When in a real war I have to lean toward the former WEC Lightweight Champion who can grapple and look for submissions that seem to be the “Not So Young Assassin’s” Achilles heel. I won’t be surprised either way but ya gotta roll the dice for the underdog sometimes.
Upset Pick WINNER-Jamie Varner by Decision
Michael Johnson (12-6) vs. Myles Jury (10-0) The “0” must go. The Blackzilian may not have the pretty record but he has fought better and improved more with an ability to showcase more skills while the undefeated Jury needs to wrestle to win. “Fury” has only competed once in the big dance while Johnson has become a young veteran who isn’t afraid to put out a video called “Fist In A Box” showing he cannot sing but he doesn’t care.
WINNER-Michael Johnson by Decision
Prelims (Facebook):
Phil DeFries (9-1) vs. Todd Duffee (7-2) The “Duff Man” is back in the big time after getting blown up by Alistair Overeem in K-1 and then besting journeyman Neil Grove to get the replacement slot. Phil is going to want to grapple but he’s only a few halted takedown attempts from being clubbed to death by the powerful specimen. Todd does the right things backed by the intelligence of AKA and plays it just safe enough to get his big punch in and lamp DeFries.
WINNER-Todd Duffee by Rd.1 KO
Leonard Garcia (15-9-1) vs. Max Holloway (6-1) “Blessed” opened my eyes a bit when he systematically took apart Justin Lawrence in his last bout with outstanding striking while the veteran Garcia is on a 3 fight losing streak backed by his windmill hay makers and favorable judging. Leonard’s days were numbered a long time ago and coming up against a much younger (youngest on the UFC roster I believe) and far more sound fellow striker with a reach advantage that serves him well. Holloway possesses that Hawaii strong heart and out duels the bomb thrower in a fun growing experience.
WINNER-Max Holloway by Decision
Chris Cariaso (14-3) vs. John Moraga (12-1) The MMA Laber has reeled off 6 straight wins while Moraga has only won 3. John has started to make its name but “Kamikaze” has been solid amassing a quiet 4-1 record for Zuffa with the lone loss coming to #1 contender Michael McDonald in which he hung well. Moraga’s power and boldness will help him out point his opponent in an interesting close fight.
WINNER-John Moraga by Decision
Phil DeFries (9-1) vs. Todd Duffee (7-2) The “Duff Man” is back in the big time after getting blown up by Alistair Overeem in K-1 and then besting journeyman Neil Grove to get the replacement slot. Phil is going to want to grapple but he’s only a few halted takedown attempts from being clubbed to death by the powerful specimen. Todd does the right things backed by the intelligence of AKA and plays it just safe enough to get his big punch in and lamp DeFries.
WINNER-Todd Duffee by Rd.1 KO
Leonard Garcia (15-9-1) vs. Max Holloway (6-1) “Blessed” opened my eyes a bit when he systematically took apart Justin Lawrence in his last bout with outstanding striking while the veteran Garcia is on a 3 fight losing streak backed by his windmill hay makers and favorable judging. Leonard’s days were numbered a long time ago and coming up against a much younger (youngest on the UFC roster I believe) and far more sound fellow striker with a reach advantage that serves him well. Holloway possesses that Hawaii strong heart and out duels the bomb thrower in a fun growing experience.
WINNER-Max Holloway by Decision
Chris Cariaso (14-3) vs. John Moraga (12-1) The MMA Laber has reeled off 6 straight wins while Moraga has only won 3. John has started to make its name but “Kamikaze” has been solid amassing a quiet 4-1 record for Zuffa with the lone loss coming to #1 contender Michael McDonald in which he hung well. Moraga’s power and boldness will help him out point his opponent in an interesting close fight.
WINNER-John Moraga by Decision
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