Scott Coppleman scans his expert eye over a very strong UFC card as it returns to the OCTAGON and Fox
UFC on FOX is scheduled for January 28 2012 (U.S time). Although we have already seen UFC on FOX (Velasquez vs. Dos Santos) this is the first official card on FOX in a huge seven year deal signed between the two giants in 2011. The event has three matches due to be broadcast and all matches are huge in the context of the respective divisions.
The main event in the Light Heavyweight (205lbs/93kg) division sees the former champion “Suga” Rashad Evans (16-1-1) due to face hot prospect Phil “Mr Wonderful” Davis (9-0).
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This match has been scheduled and postponed numerous occasions due to injuries to both fighters (Evans thumb, Davis hand) and the winner looks set to be given the daunting task of facing the red hot champ Jonny “Bones” Jones. Both Evans and Davis had outstanding NCAA wrestling careers and received All American honours throughout.
With both fighters returning after long layoffs due to their respective injuries I expect this bout to begin slowly as both fighters work themselves back into the octagon. With both Evans and Davis outstanding wrestlers I believe this will be a predominately stand up fight in the early stages.
Evans with proven knockout power in both hands and legs has several highlight reel finishes (most notably Chuck Liddell) will be looking to find his range and end it early. He will begin the feeling out process with his renowned stiff jabs and look to set up for the big finish. If he is unsuccessful in this, look for Evans to clinch and work Davis to the cage where he can utilize his excellent “dirty boxing” and Muay Thai skills.
After settling I believe Davis, who arguably has the most explosive takedowns in the division, will look to get this to the mat and impose his will on Evans. Davis is very unorthodox on the ground and along with his vicious ground and pound (some of the best in the entire UFC) he has some of the most remarkable submissions in his arsenal, the most notable of these was a remarkable modified kimoura which saw him submit Tim Boetsch at UFC 123; a submission which the likes of had never been seen before in the UFC.
With “Mr Wonderful’s” superior strength it will be extremely difficult for Evans to counter this as the fight goes further in and fatigue becomes a factor. This is by far Davis’ greatest test of his career and he must be at his best. With that said my prediction is “Mr Wonderful” by second round stoppage. Presently he is $2.32 on BETASPORT
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