Originally Posted by IronMan @ MMAOpinion

It’s easy to talk about the potential of a fighter. It’s easy to talk about the things that a fighter could do if he brings in a new game, a new level of athleticism or a new level of intensity.

Undefeated Cain Velasquez (5-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) will be credited for answering a lot of questions if he defeats Cheick Kongo at UFC 99. People will see it as an advancement into the upper echelon of the UFC heavyweight division. Kongo (19-4-1 MMA, 7-2 UFC) is an undisputed gatekeeper in the weightclass, and Velasquez, with superior wrestling ability and a viscious groundnpound is in a position to put the Frenchman out. He could, perhaps, become the first UFC opponent to finish Kongo (which would be a huge feat).

I’m not as convinced as the rest of the world that this matchup is a done deal, even with Kongo taking the bout on short notice. There have been additions to his ground game that may present a problem for Velasquez, and his still developing wrestling skill will make Cain work if he wants to get the fight on the ground. Of course, the way that Velasquez destroyed Jake O’Brien sent a message to anyone who thinks they can out wrestle him. That message more of a “Try Me” than anything else.