Hey MMAF,
Do you need advice for picking the winner of the upcoming card? Are you a newer fan, and don't know much about the fighters competing at UFC 80?
The staff of MMAF got together and have predicted the upcoming UFC 80 Card, from top to bottom. Hopefully you find our picks helpful, and learn something.
This thread is for all predictions of the UFC 80 card. Enjoy!
Overall Thoughts: For the Main Event of the Evening, of Staff are leaning towards two outcomes; the fight going to the scorecards, or BJ submitting Joe at some point in the fight. Both outcomes are very logical and could very well be the case. BJ Penn is the favorite on the forums, and that shows through in the picks, but our Staff did give some love to Joe Daddy. It seems that most of us are questioning BJ's gas tank, and that will be a big factor in this fight.
brownpimp88: The lightweight division is going to be turned upside down with this upcoming showdown between BJ and Joe Daddy. It isn't really an expected ME, but it is what it is. This fight will definitely open up 2008 strong, and I look for a long, back and fourth battle. I see Joe Daddy, shooting early, but not able to get the take down. This will result in BJ punching his face a bit, and scoring some points. In the early rounds, perhaps the second, Joe Daddy will get BJ down, but BJ will quickly secure a submission and work it for the round. BJ may get top position here, and we know when BJ gets top position, it's not a good thing. BJ will tire out in the third, but still work enough to arguably win the round. I see BJ gassing by the fourth, if he doesn't finish the fight by then, and being taken down repeatedly en route to a decision. Who will win the decision? UFC judges love the "top control" so I gotta go with Daddy.
Winner by Split Decision: Joe Stevenson.
Chrisl972: BJ Penn has proven to be one of the best pound for pound in the world when his conditioning is in line. I think this is going to be one of his better showings. I really see BJ controlling the stand up right out of the gate. If Stevenson tries to take it to the ground, I see BJ controlling it there as well. My prediction for this fight is
BJ Penn via Triangle late 2nd round after Joe gets sick of the striking and actually gets a take down on Penn.
CopperShark: Well, I guess I'll be blunt with you all and tell you the truth. I'm stuck. I don't know who is going to win this match, and I wish I did. I know BJ Penn is BJ Penn.. BUT, I have a feeling that Joe Stevenson will take a decision. So, in that respect, I'll give you a very vague answer. If it goes past the 2:30 mark of round two, Joe Stevenson will have weather'd BJ's storm, and will win the match on the scorecards, using effective top postion, and having more heart to win. Remember what they fight for! Joe DADDY Stevenson has a lot to lose.
Outcome: BJ Penn until round two. Then it's all Joe.
Damone: I'm actually going to give it to Joe Stevenson. Now wait, before you call me insane, let me explain why. You see, Joe Stevenson has looked awesome in his last 4 fights and is improving in every aspect. He has good wrestling, solid jitz, solid striking, heart, and has been in there with current Lightweights. B.J. Penn is a great fighter, but he is known to burn out in fights. I think that Stevenson will weather the storm, and then go on to win a split decision. He has all the tools to defeat Penn, and I'm surprised that many don't think so and are counting Joe Daddy out here.Keep in mind that Joe Stevenson took Pellegrino down and Pellegrino is a good wrestler. If he gets a chance to, I think Joe can take B.J. down in the later rounds.
Outcome: Joe Stevenson by split decision.
IronMan: BJ Penn is by far the superior fighter and a long time staple of the sport, both at 170 pounds, and in this 155 pound weightclass. He's a top 3 fighter in the world as a welterweight, and I don't think that anyone will disagree that, as a lightweight, he's a force to be reconned with. While Stevenson has a credible grappling backround and some wrestling skills, all that will do is give him the power to pick his poison in this fight, because Penn is a world champion and genius in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has some of the best standup (if not the best) in the division. Stevenson will probably take this fight where he's comfortable, to the ground, but I see BJ finishing him there.
Result: Penn by Submission (armbar/omoplata), Round 2
kds13: Joe has looked real good recently and has shown improvement in every fight. He's definitely ready to be a top contender in the LW Division, but he isn't ready for BJ Penn. Yet. BJ has better submissions and better striking. I think Penn will wear out Stevenson standing and pound his face quite a bit. Joe will have to search for a takedown, which I believe he will get eventually, probably in the later rounds. But its going to be too little, too late. BJ will control the early rounds, standing or on the ground. When Joe takes control, he'll be too tired to finish it.
Result: BJ Penn by Unanimous Decision in a close one: 47-46.
screenamesuck: I think I'm one of the few that think Joe has a good chance of pulling off the upset. I've gone back and forth on this fight and I know Penn is the favorite to win, but I think Joe can easily get the decision if he can survive the first two rounds. Penn is incredibly hard to get down, but I feel after those legs start getting tired it will be hard for Penn to avoid the takedown. Joe probably knows the best way for him to win is by taking it to the ground and pounding his way to a decision. I hope I don't regret picking against the prodigy.
Outcome: Stevenson via Unanimous Decision
TREY: Penn is far superior to Stevenson in every aspect of fighting, and I'll be shocked if Joe manages to take a fresh BJ down, when Hughes and GSP had all hell trying to. BJ and Stevenson both have notoriously questionable gas tanks. We all know about Joe's devastating guillotines, but will he catch Penn in one? Very unlikely. Since it's a five round championship fight, we'll definitely see one of the two fighters gas at some point. Joe can survive on the ground with BJ (even if it's only for two rounds); Joe can't survive on the feet against BJ, however. Stevenson's grill will be all busted up when this fight is all over. Joe will eventually get a takedown (late in the fight), but even then, BJ is slippery as hell on the mat. I think his skills HEAVILY outweigh Joe's skills at this point. It may be the easy pick, but it's where my money is going.
Outcome: BJ by Submission (RNC) - RD 3
UFCFAN33: Stevenson will come out very aggressively and take Penn down. I can see Penn being calm and patient on the ground and waiting for Stevenson to make a mistake and capitalize on it.
I see Penn winning this fight by submission Round 1.
Consensus Pick: BJ Penn (6 Votes To 3)
vs.
General Thoughts: This fight has been the most closely predicted bout of the fight card by our Staff panel. Three possible outcomes have been discussed; the fight going to the judges scorecards, Lambert finishing with a strong KO, or Goveia putting his opponent away with a submission. Originally scheduled for UFC 76, this is a fight that a lot of us are looking forward too.
brownpimp88: Govvy vs. Lamb-man. A fight that was supposed to happen back at UFC 76, but was canceled due to injury. It is good to see that we will finally get to see these guys battle it out, and the winner will be up there in the LHW ranks. Jason Lambert has that sorta "meat-truck" fighting style, where he will sort just maul you into exhaustion, and then catch your with a strong shot, or an aggressive submission. His style doesn't really have that slickness, it is just sort of in your face. Govvy is a little more technical, and a little more hesitant. I see Lamb-man winning round 1, by sheer aggressiveness and controlling the pace. Round 2, Wilson will start working the leg kicks and Lambert will look to put him on his back. Round 3 more leg kicks from Wilson, Jason gets him on his back, Wilson works for a nice submission, and back up to the feet, where Govvy works some more leg kicks. It will go the distance, and we may see some odd judging here.
Winner by Split Decision: Wilson Gouveia
Chrisl972: I really think this fight is going to be over pretty quickly. I like Wilson, but I'm not sure that he's ready for the kind of fighter that Jason is. Lambert has proven that he can get in with top fighters and look good doing it. Gouveia has a loss to Rory Singer, that's right RORY SINGER. Lambert will use his heavy hands to make this fight end on a bad note for Wilson. My prediction,
Lambert by (T)KO mid 1st round.
CopperShark: This is a hard fight for me to call, cause I don't like either fighter, so the outcome is irrelivent. Although, I do believe that Lambert's big right hand will find it's mark on Wilson's chin. He hasn't been with ATT long enough for it to make too much of a difference, and I doubt I'll question Lambert again after what he did to my man Babalu.
Outcome: Lambert by brutal KO in the second
Damone: Oooh, this will be a good fight, and I think Gouveia will come out the winner. Gouveia has more tools than Lambert, simply put, and he'll pick him apart and finish things in the third. Gouveia's a guy who has all the talent to be a contender, and he now realizes this, and is working on everything. Working with ATT, I think Gouveia will be prepared to go into the later rounds. In the Seth fight, he managed to go to the second and quickly finished things, so that shows that Gouveia is deadly after the first round.
Outcome: Wilson Gouveia by submission in the third round.
IronMan: Lambert is one of the most powerful fighters in the second tier of the 205 pound division. While most agree that he's not on the same level as the big guns in the division like Rampage, Chuck, Silva or even Forrest or Jardine, he's where I draw the line in terms of who's part of the top, and who's in the rest of the pack. As far as Gouviea, I think Gouviea's just another guy in the 205 pound division, and Lambert has the strength and ability to power through him, much as Lambert has done with all of the other no-name fighter's he's fought, and even done to a serious veteran in Babalu Sobral.
Result: Lambert by KO, Round 2
kds13: Gouveia went the distance with Jardine, controlling the first 2 Rounds, IMO. He gassed hard and it weighed on the judges minds when they gave Keith the win. Wilson has learned. He'll be a cardio machine in this fight, coming forward and never letting up the pressure on Lambert. He'll throw those nasty leg kicks and weaken Jason's base. Lambert does have good hands and Wilson will have to worry about his power, but I think he'll be fine. The only way this fight goes to the ground is if Lambert realizes he's getting tooled.
Result: Wilson Gouveia by TKO in Round 3, in a striking battle.
screenamesuck: I don't see this being a very exciting fight. Both fighters have the ability to end the fight either by KO or sub. I think this will spend a lot of time on the ground. Both fighters will probably end up gassing towards the end, but I see Lambert staying active more and scoring points. Outcome:
Lambert via Unanimous Decision.
TREY: Lambert is pretty quiet at 205. When people mention contenders, you never hear his name. He doesn't have big enough win for that though. He got his face pounded by Rashad, and crushed Babalu. He's one of those on/off fighters. It all depends on which Jason shows up. Wilson's got those NASTY leg kicks, and I've seen his boxing, and it's damn nice. Wilson is gonna chop Lambert down with those nasty kicks, and Lambert won't be able to walk normal. Once Gouveia chops him down, Lambert will be pissed and go for the takedown, the fight will hit the mat, where Lambert will get choked out.
Outcome: Wilson by Submission (Guillotine) - RD 2
UFCFAN33: This should be an interesting fight. Gouveia being a great submission fighter and Lambert who is very good at avoiding submissions. Lambert was very impressive at avoiding Babulu's submissions and being able to finish him. But I think Lambert will be in trouble here. I can see Lambert coming out very strong in the first round throwing huge bombs and looking for that big KO. I think Lambert will be dead tired in the 2nd round, and thats when Gouveia will destroy Lambert with his nasty kicks and eventually get Lambert to the Ground and submit him.
I say Gouveia wins by submission Round 2!
Consensus Pick: Wilson Gouveia (5 Votes To 4)
vs.
General Thoughts: Another anticipated fight will take place! The rematch of the two BJJ Wizards, Gabe Gonzaga and Fabricio Werdum. This will be a huge fight for both men, and one our staff has been fairly torn on. The discussed outcomes are; Gabe picking up a UD victory, Werdum finishing the fight in the later rounds or Gonzaga overwhelming the smaller man and finishing the fight by KO. It will be interesting to see how this fight of two seemingly evenly matched fighters unfolds, and whether Gonzaga can avenge this haunting loss, or Werdum can officially claim to have Napao's number.
brownpimp88:This is a rematch that the MMA and Grappling world have been wanting for a while. Their first fight ended with Gonzo winning the fight, but then gassing hardcore, and losing via strikes. I see something similar happening this time too. While I like both fighters, I got to pick Gabe to win this one. This guy has all the tools to beat Werdum. I see them trading early, and Gonzaga rocking Fabricio. Napao will try and finish but Werdum is a tough cookie, and will survive. Round 2 will see Werdum try and take it to the mat, but be unsuccessful. Gonzaga will return the favor and take the fight there himself. I see both guys neutralizing one another on the ground, and probably be a little "boring" for some fans. Round 3 will come out, and I predict Gabe being gassed! Werdum will work inside on the clinch, and trip Gabe down. Werdum will some strikes, and this is the point where one of two things can happen; Werdum can finish him, just like in the first fight...or Gabe can turn the tide, and just maintain top position en route to a decision. I think Gabe will pull it out and win the fight.
Winner by Unanimous Decision: Gabe Gonzaga
Chrisl972: This is one of the better match ups on this card. I really think this will be a back and forth fight with to of the top guys in the HWD. Gonzaga is known to have heavy kicks and has proven what he can do with them against both Cro Cop (RHK KO) and Couture (Broke his arm with a HK). The only thing is that I feel Werdum just got done fighting a better striker (Arlovski) and held his own pretty well in the stand up side of it. Both are GREAT ground fighters, but I think that Werdum has shown the better ground game for MMA. My prediction for this fight is Werdum via
(T)KO early in the 3rd.
Damone: This is hard to predict, both guys have solid jitz, but Gonzaga has the striking aspect. Werdum is a guy who is extremely talented, but doesn't really work on the aspects he needs to work on. In the Arlovski fight, he had a nice flurry and just stopped doing them. That always boggled my mind. He has worked with Chute Box, so let's hope he has improved in the striking aspect. I know, Chute Box is definitely not a great camp, and is basically an anchor for solid fighters, but Werdum needs to let the hands go more. Werdum needs to set-up his takedowns here, and try to get things to the ground. I'm rooting for Werdum here, because he needs this win really bad, or else he's gone. Then again, Gonzaga needs this win, too. I'm going with Werdum here, as I think this will go to the ground.
Outcome: Fabricio Werdum by TKO in the third round.
IronMan: While Gonzaga is coming off of a tough loss, so is Werdum, so psychologically I think both fighters are on the same playing field, even though Gonzaga was beaten in a bloody slaughter and Werdum only dropped an unimpressive decision. They're both trying to break the losing mindset. While it's important to remember that this is a rematch and Werdum won the first fight, the original bout came before Gonzaga had really stepped into the spotlight as a top fighter, and showed his versatility. I think that Werdum is going to have alot of problems with Gonzaga, because Werdum isn't famous for using his takedowns on the BJJ circuit, and Gonzaga has much more experience in that department. Beyond just their background as submission fighters, the last time Gonzaga stepped in with a fellow BJJ blackbelt, he demolished him. (that fight was with Fabiano Scherner) I see this fight going much more like the fight with Scherner, though perhaps being shorter, given that Werdum is much, much smaller than Scherner.
Result: Gonzaga by TKO, Round 2
kds13: Werdum has the better ground game. In fact, he has the best BJJ in the HW Division besides Nogueira. But it won't matter. Gonzaga is big and quick, the two things that will be Fabricio's doom. When Werdum shoots, GG will put his weight on him and sprawl out, choosing to keep the fight standing. Hopefully Chute Boxe is doing wonders for Werdum's striking, because Gonzaga showed good boxing and countering in the Couture fight. I believe he'll keep the fight standing.
Result: Gabriel Gonzaga by Unanimous Decision, in a very exciting fight.
screenamesuck: I believe this has a chance to be a great fight. I highly doubt it will be like Werdum's last fight with Arlovski. Both fighters are very skilled and pretty equal in my opinion. I think Gonzaga only gets better each fight and Werdum has reached his peak. I don't see this fight standing very long. I think Gonzaga will go for an early takedown and just control the fight for all three rounds. I also think Werdum will get off some close submissions, but will be unable to finish Gonzaga.
Outcome: Gonzaga via Unanimous Decision
TREY: Man. Gonzilla is gonna come into this bout pissed off. He already lost to Fab once, he sure as hell doesn't want it to happen again. Gabe knows how dangerous Werdum's BJJ is, so look for him to keep this one standing. If it does go down, I don't think it will last too long down there...but I see Werdum's face getting smashed with elbows. Anyway, if Gabe keeps this fight standing, he'll demolish Fabricio, especially if one of those high kicks lands! I look for Werdum is continually run away from exchanges, and keep doing whatever it takes to pull guard.
Outcome: Gabriel Gonzaga by Decision (Unanimous)
UFCFAN33: Obviously Gonzaga is going to want to keep this fight standing. Werdum will try his hardest to take Gonzaga down but will have no luck. Gonzaga is a much more powerful fighter then he was before. I can see Gonzaga landing some big shots and eventually putting Werdum to sleep.
Gonzaga by KO Round 1!
Consensus Pick: Gabriel Gonzaga (6 Votes To 2)
vs.
General Thoughts: If there is one thing that our staff agreed on, it is that Liaudin vs. Davis will be an exciting fight. Marcus Davis is well on his way up the UFC WW ranks, and Jess Liaudin will be a tough fight for him. Our team has voted heavily in the favor of Davis and have stated that this fight will either end with "The Irish Hand Grenade" scoring a KO or a UD victory.
brownpimp88: Liaudin vs. Davis should be a real good, entertaining fight, just like any Marcus Davis fight of late. Marcus Davis has been getting a lot of hype thanks to his action packed performances in the octagon and the big win streak he has been on. I expect Liaudin to try and "expose" Davis on the ground, but Davis has shown that he has evolved from just a boxer to a Mixed Martial Artist. Davis will be an interesting watch, and it will be good to see him tested against the next level of competition, but unfortunately, Jess Liaudin is not that stage yet.
Winner by (T)KO in Round 1: Marcus Davis
Chrisl972: Well, Jess is going to have a bad night here. Marcus has shown that he's ready to fight every time he steps into the Octagon and I don't expect this to be any different. Marcus has shown fantastic improvements since his loss to Guillard over two years ago and hasn't lost since. That's 10 straight fights he's pulled off a win. I have no reason to believe that this fight is going to break his streak. My prediction is
Marcus Davis via UD.
Damone: I have been impressed by both guys to tell you the truth. Liaudin's jitz looked solid against Dennis Siver at UFC 70, and his striking looked decent against Torres at UFC 74. Davis, however, has looked solid in almost every fight he's had since losing to Melvin Guillard. Davis has solid striking, solid wrestling, solid jitz, solid cardio, and a solid chin. I believe that Marcus Davis just has more tools, and will finish things by TKO in the second round. Marcus Davis is just on fire right now, and will only continue to win fights until Joe Silva has him fight someone like Karo Parisyan.
Outcome: Marcus Davis by TKO in the second round.
IronMan: Marcus Davis a great fighter, and Jess Laudin isn't really on the same level in my opinion. Recently, we've seen that Davis can do more than just box (which is the skillset he came into the sport with) and we know he's an athlete. I don't see Laudin being about to win this fight anywhere, so I'm going to stick with the heavy favorite in Marcus Davis, and I'm thinking he'll win early, either by catching Laudin with a stiff punch, or slipping on the guillotine, which has been the bread and butter of his groundgame recently.
Result: Davis by KO, Round 1
kds13: Liaudin is going to be in trouble, stepping up to fight a legit Top 10 WW after beating Anthony Torres. He will undoubtedly look to get the fight to the ground and work his JJ. Davis has been on an epic win streak and looks to keep it rolling here. His boxing is his strongest aspect, and against the wild style of Jess, he should be able to pick him apart. This has FOTN written all over it. Davis won't be losing until he fights a Top 10.
Result: Marcus Davis by TKO, early Round 3. Fight of the Night right here.
screenamesuck: Davis is a one or two fights away from being the #1 contender in my opinion and I don't think Liaudin is going to change that. Davis has been impressive as of late. He has always had great striking and has improved his submission skills, but I don't think we will get to see much of that lol.
Outcome: Davis via 1st round (T)KO
TREY: If BJ & Joe don't have an EPIC BATTLE, this will be Fight of the Night, watch. "The Irish Hand Grenade" always brings the fun to EVERY FIGHT, and Liaudin is slept on, even though his record is very sub-par. He trains with Team Quest, so you know he's grinding on a daily basis. "The Joker" loves leg locks & those spinning back fists, but his boxing is inferior to Davis'. Yes, Liaudin looked good against Anthony Torres, but c'mon...it was Anthony Torres. Kind of a can fight. Marcus will come out banging, and Jess will bring it in the exchanges as well. This one will hit the mat, with Liaudin looking for subs, and Davis works his ever-improving G-n-P, with those nasty elbows. I look for a three round, back and forth war. This one should be exciting.
Outcome: Marcus Davis by Decision (Unanimous)
UFCFAN33: Both guys will come out very aggressive and will try to get the early KO. Marcus is just to tough for Jess and will be the one to land the big bomb that drops Liaudin.
Davis by KO Round 1!
Consensus Pick: Marcus Davis (8 Votes To 0)
vs.
General Thoughts: Our team has predicted this fight much closer then what would be expected. Everyone agrees that this is a must win for Kendall Grove but it seems he has lost some momentum after the devastating loss to Patrick Cote. One thing our judges can agree on is that this fight will not go to the score cards, as only one expert predicted a decision.
brownpimp88:Coming off the disappointing loss to Patrick Cote, Kendall Grove has got something to prove against MMA Vet, Jorge Rivera. Kendall was a hot prospect in the fairly under-developed 185 weight class before his disappointing loss back at UFC 74. Expect Kendall to come out and look to send a message to the UFC MWs that he is still a top contender. Jorge Rivera has a ton of experience but has been on the losing end of some big fights, and is widely considered a journeyman or gate-keeper. He hasn't fought in nearly a year, the last time being a 14 second KO loss to Terry Martin. I see Kendall coming out strong in this fight, taking Rivera down early, unloading some GNP and finishing with a submission.
Winner by TKO in Round 1: Kendall Grove
Chrisl972: This should turn out to be a pretty good fight. Both of these guys have shown that they like to get in and scrap. I'm actually pretty torn on the outcome of this fight. Grove had shown great improvement in his fighting up until his last fight and we all know how that one turned out. Cote really showed us that he's Kendall still has a lot of room for improvement. Both of these guys have had trouble with bigger name fighters. I think one of the things that stood out to me the most in Groves last fight was the fact that he didn't really like getting hit. Rivera is going to hit him. I don't care about the height difference, Rivera's going to get some shots in. This makes me wonder if Kendall is going to try and stay away from the stand up. If he does that, he'll give up the reach and Rivera's not an easy man to submit. My prediction on this fight is
Rivera via (T)KO early 2nd.
Damone: I like Rivera, I really do; he seems like a nice guy and he's a guy who will bring the fight when needed. He's not great, but he's not total shark bait. Kendall Grove looked solid against Belcher, and was caught against Cote. Grove has all the tools to defeat Rivera, but there's always that chance that Rivera will catch him and put him out. Both guys like to clinch, so I'm expecting both to do so. Grove has many ways to win, but I actually think that he will catch Rivera with a good shot and then pounce on him for the TKO.
Outcome: Kendall Grove by TKO in the second round.
IronMan: I'm one of the few people who thinks that Rivera has a legit shot in this fight, but I don't think it's because Rivera is an underrated fighter. I think Grove gets alot of attention for being really, really tall. That's why I called him out before the fight with Patrick Cote, a fight that ended in him getting completely demolished. I think that Grove is going to have alot of trouble dealing with an experienced, saavy fighter like Rivera, who knows how to work around his reach standing and can avoid Grove's so-so BJJ on the ground. While Grove trains with Punishment, I don't think that the increasingly one-dimensional nature of the camp (which has gotten progressively worse since Dean Lister left) is going to help, given that I don't think Grove is a good enough wrestler to take Rivera down if he needs to, and I don't think that his freakishly high center of gravity will allow for that.
Result: Rivera by Unanimous Decision
kds13: Kendall got caught against Cote and looks to get back on the winning track here. Rivera is no can, but also isn't gonna be much of a problem for Grove. The Spider needs to watch out for Rivera's hands, as he does have power. I think Grove will get it into the clinch, work his knees and eventually knock Rivera down with a right. He'll pounce as Jorge recovers. Grove's top game is pretty solid and I think he'll get a submission victory after scoring a knockdown.
Result: Kendall Grove by Submission, Round 2.
screenamesuck: Rivera is way past his prime and Grove has improved greatly since his time on TUF. Besides getting caught by Cote, Grove has been amazing. His height and reach advantage has always helped him and I think it will a pretty easy fight for him. I think Grove will pick Rivera apart for much of the 1st round and end it in the 2nd.
Outcome: Grove via 2nd round (T)KO
TREY: I honestly...think Kendall Grove is somewhat overrated. He's never OVERLY-impressed me ever since coming into the UFC. Rivera is a weathered veteran, and he's been around the block more than once. Only thing that scares me about him is, it seems like it's REALLY easy to knock him out. He's been involved in a lot of knock out finishes in his career. Anyway, back to this fight. Kendall, in my honest opinion, doesn't like getting hit. I saw it versus Belcher, and I saw it during the Cote fight. Rivera will come in and scrap, and Kendall will back away and throw body kicks. This is a hard one to pick. Both guys could get KO'ed actually, so it's like a 50/50 for me. I'll flip a coin!
Outcome: Rivera by (T)KO - RD 3
UFCFAN33: I think Rivera will have his hands full with Grove. The only way Rivera will have a shot at winning is if he lands a big bomb. Grove will be smart and take this fight to the ground as soon as he can. Grove will dominate on the ground and end up submitting Rivera.
Grove by submission Round 2!
Consensus Pick: Kendall Grove (5 Votes To 3)
vs.
General Thoughts: The bout between Octagon newcomer Per Eklund, and well known veteran Sam Stout has brought up some interesting points from our panel. As a matter of fact, this is one of two bouts on the card where our judges have been split, with 4 votes going to each fighter. However, the judges do agree that if Sam Stout is going to win this fight, it will most likely be by KO, and if Per Eklund will get the nod, it will be by way of submission!
brownpimp88:Although many of you do not know him, Per Eklund is actually one of those guys I have had my eye on for a while. He has been fairly successful in the international scene and is someone I have been looking forward to seeing more of. Sam Stout is a strong striker, with a rock solid chin and decent ground work. Most people are expecting Stout to pick up the win, but just like I have been telling anyone who has asked me, I see Eklund making a big impact and finishing his opponent in the first, with a Rear Naked Choke.
Winner by Submission in Round 1: Per Eklund
Chrisl972: Sam Stout can take a punch. Per Eklund can't really throw power. Per Eklund knows submissions. Sam Stout knows how to stay out of submissions. Seems like a pretty easy call to me. My prediction is
Sam Stout via UD.
Damone: Eklund's a submission fighter, who isn't a complete tard standing up. Sam Stout is a solid striking, who is a total tard on the ground; look for Eklund to get the submission in the first round. I like Sam Stout, I think he has a ton of potential and will someday be a well-rounded fighter, but he needs to get away from Shawn Thompkins and go train at other camps. He's just clueless on the ground, and Eklund is solid on the ground, so Stout will be tapping in the first, once this thing hits the ground. Poor Stout, so much talent, so little ground game.
Outcome: Per Eklund by submission in the first round.
IronMan: I like Sam Stout. While I think that his groundgame is suspect, I respect his Muay Thai skills alot, and I think that they present a serious problem for Eklund. I see Stout keeping this fight on the feet by keeping Eklund at range, and I don't see Stout having any trouble finishing without using the thai-clinch, which it's definitely in his best interest to avoid. This fight could go the difference if neither fighter wants to push the pace (Stout will keep it slow so he doesn't get caught, and Eklund may fall into that rhythm too), but I think that Eklund will get worn down, get stupid and get knocked out.
Result: Stout by (T)KO, Round 3
kds13: Sam's standup is no joke. He should be able to take it in that aspect. The problem is, he has no ground game. Eklund is a well rounded dude, fighting out of Sweden. He has yet to face top competition and I'm afraid the UFC lights may shine too bright for him in his debut. He'll show the jitters early, getting picked apart in the 1st Round. But, his well-roundedness will come into play. This fight will hit the mats and Stout will look like a fish out of water. In the upset of the night, I'm going with the newcomer.
Result: Per Eklund by Submission, late in Round 2.
screenamesuck: I don't know much about Eklund except his fights normally just stop by submission or decision. Stout on the other hand can end the fight standing in a second and even though he isn't great on the ground he can finish it there. Stout has also shown that he can take a punch. As long as he can keep the fight standing and avoid the submissions I don't see him losing this fight.
Outcome: Stout via 2nd round (T)KO
TREY: While Stout has impressive striking, his ground game is very sub-par. His clinch game and wrestling probably have improved by leaps-n-bounds already by working with XTreme Couture, but what about his non-exsistent submission game? Hmmmmm...I have questions. Stout's submission defense is BAD, as we all witnessed in the Florian fight. I know Per has great submissions, and if he gets Stout done, which I think he will (I mean sh*t...Stout basically has no sprawl), he'll quickly put an end to Sammy's night with a tap-tap-tap.
Outcome: Eklund via Submission (RNC) - RD 1
UFCFAN33: Stout knows that Eklund will want to take this fight to the ground. Stout will come out very explosive and land a furry of blows to Eklunds skull that will drop him like a sack of rocks!
Stout by KO Round 1!
Consensus Pick: Split (4 Votes To 4)
vs.
General Thoughts: "Big C" vs. Hardonk is a fight that our panel is not too excited for, to say the least. Despite being split on the votes, our Staff is not too intrigued with this match up. The common consensus is that if Antoni Hardonk were to win this fight, it would be by using his kick boxing skills to score a knock out, and "Big C" will need to get his opponent to the mat in order to secure a win.
brownpimp88: This is a fight of two fighters who aren't very liked on these forums. While Antoni Hardonk does have great stand up, he is very prone to submission and needs to get a Jui-Jitsu coach....NOW! "Big C" is sort of odd and not likable, but he does look like the more well rounded fighter. I have seen much more of Hardonk, and I must say, he doesn't look too explosive with his striking, and I think he will be taken down, pounded on, and then submitted after a while.
Winner by Submission in Round 2: Colin Robinson
Chrisl972: Much like others are saying, I'm not really feeling this fight. I don't really know too much about Robinson, but I do know that Hardonk can throw bombs. I'm going to have to say that Hardonk needs to get his name out there if he really wants to get some respect in the UFC. I believe that he's going to come in to this fight with the mindset of taking Robinson's head clean off with a highlight reel knockout. My prediction is
Hardonk via 1st rd (T)KO.
Damone: I actually think that Hardonk will get to show off his striking skills, since Robinson doesn't mind banging. This will, however, hit the ground, and when it does, look for Robinson to be in Hardonk's guard, dropping pitter patter shots until the ref stamds them back up. Rinse and repeat until Robinson totally gasses, and Hardonk whomps him.
Outcome: Antoni Hardonk by KO in the third round.
IronMan: I think Antoni Hardonk is one of the more underrated fighters in a division populated by seriously overrated sacks of crap. He's got a kickboxing background under Ernesto Hoost (one of the greatest kickboxers in history) and he's been training BJJ with Rickson Gracie, who gave him a bluebelt. I think that his Dutch kickboxing will be what takes this fight home, though, and he'll finish Robinson in similar style to his finish of Pendergarst in his first fight. I really hope this ends up on the pay-per-view, because people forget how much damage Hardonk can do with leg kicks, and they forget how devastating his hands are. I don't think Hardonk is as serious a force as a couple of the other great kickboxers in this division, but he's a helluva lot better than Robinson.
Result: Hardonk by KO, Round 1
kds13: In a fight that only the two combatants parents and families will want to watch, Colin Robinson will win a wrestling/hugging battle. Hardonk has yet to impress me as a fighter, showing no skills against Justin McCully. Robinson isn't much better, going down at the hands of the Manic Hispanic, Eddie Sanchez. In a borefest, Robinson will take it.
Result: Colin Robinson by Unanimous Decision.
screenamesuck: This is another fight that I don't expect to much out of. I don't really have much to say about this fight cause neither fighter really belongs in the UFC in my opinion.
Outcome: Robinson via Unanimous Decision
TREY: I could care less about this fight. Two tall, out of shape guys going in there and just looking bad. Yes, Hardonk will throw his kicks, it's all he knows how to do. Robinson will try and take the fight to the mat, where he can smother Antoni. This fight is gonna suck, plain and simple. If my wish gets granted, this fight will end early...spare us all the misery.
Outcome: HOPEFULLY Colin Robinson via Submission - RD 1
UFCFAN33: Both fighters will come out and exchange punches with Hardonk causing the most damage in the 1st round. As soon as the 2nd round starts, Hardonk will take Robinson to the ground and land some nasty elbows that slice up Robinson's face.
Hardonk by tko in the 2nd round!
Consensus Vote: Split (4 Votes To 4)
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General Thoughts: Despite having a 6-0 record, MMAF's staff has given Paul Kelly no chance in his debut against exciting Paul Taylor. All judges agree that Taylor will cut Kelly's debut short, with the majority feeling that Taylor will finish this fight with strikes and some feeling Kelly will push Taylor to a a decision.
brownpimp88: I haven't been as up to date on the U.K. scene as I would like, but Paul Kelly and Paul Taylor are two guys being mentioned a lot. Taylor was recently submitted by Marcus Davis in a FOTN performance, and Kelly is 6-0, and has finished every fight. I've only seen one of Kelly's fights, and he looked pretty impressive, regardless of the weak opposition. I am hoping this fight is shown, as it should be a fun one. I see both guys bringing the fight, but I have got to go with the favorite, Taylor.
Winner by UD: Paul Taylor
Chrisl972: Taylor is by far the heavy favorite in this match up. Taylor looked really good when he lost to Crocota, and I don't think that Kelly is going to be too much of a task for him. Taylor should come out with tons of confidence and swing for the fences. I don't see this being a long fight at all, as Taylor should overwhelm Kelly right out of the gate. My prediction is
Taylor via 1st rd (T)KO.
Damone: I've dug Paul Taylor ever since I saw him make Crocota even uglier. He's a solid kickboxer, who is somewhat decent on the ground. Paul Kelly has some submission wins, but let's get real here, this is not going to the ground. Look for Taylor to light dude up, sprawl, and then light him up some more. Paul Taylor, of course, will make this all exciting, with combination after combination.
Outcome:Paul Taylor by TKO in the second round.
IronMan: Even in defeat, I was impressed with Paul Taylor, though I will admit that I think his ground game could use a little work. I think that he's going to be a good example for the way the British fighters are going to have to transform from their more-or-less pure kickboxing backgrounds into a more balanced style of fighting. That said, I think he's learned alot from his fight with Davis, and I think he knows that Kelly isn't going to present the same issues that Davis did in terms of a well rounded opponent with a high quality of striking ability. Paul Taylor did some serious damage to Davis in their fight, and I see him inflicting similar damage on Kelly, though I don't see Kelly fairing as well as Davis did, and I see him going to sleep early.
Result: Taylor by TKO, Round 1
kds13: Paul Taylor really impressed me against Marcus Davis. His standup was solid and that high kick was impressive. Unfortunately for him, Davis has the heart of a lion. Taylor has faced solid competition, including Davis, Zelg Galesic, and Jess Liaudin...beating the last 2. Paul Kelly is coming down from the MW Division for this fight, but is still unproven. He fits the bill as the English dude on a card in England.
Result: Paul Taylor by TKO in Round 2. This is the fight you'll want to look up online the morning after.
screenamesuck: I predict that this will be FOTN. I think both fighters will give it their all both standing and on the ground. It should go back and forth. Taylor put up a great fight in his debut against Davis and Kelly is still undefeated. I wouldn't be surprised if this went to decision, but I also think Taylor may end it before then. In the end I'll have to go with my gut feeling.
Outcome: Taylor via Split Decision
TREY: To be totally honest, I've never seen Paul Kelly fight. His record is impressive, but I mean, what caliber of fighters has he been competing with? Pretty sure no one on Marcus Davis' level. Taylor on the other hand, almost finished Davis. That alone has to say something for the guys over game. I think Taylor's stand up skills dictate this entire fight, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him land another giant head kick on Kelly.
Outcome: Paul Taylor via TKO - RD 3
UFCFAN33: Taylor will come out very aggressive and confident. Kelly will throw some punches that don't even phase Taylor. Taylor will wait for Kelly to throw a sloppy punch and counter him with a beauty that drops him.
Taylor by KO round 1!
Consensus Pick: Paul Taylor (8 Votes To 0)
vs.
General Thoughts: Our staff is in agreement that UFC Newcomer, but PRIDE & KOTC Veteran James Lee will make his debut in the octagon an impressive one, by finishing Alessio Sakara by submission. Damone is by himself on the Sakara side of things, but this should be an interesting fight.
brownpimp88: Alessio Sakara is one fight away from being officially deemed gate-keeper status(if he wasn't already). James Lee has been on a tear recently, most notably subbing MMA Vet Travis Wiuff at PRIDE's(!!!!!) 33rd event and ripping through the competition in KOTC. As a matter of fact, browsing through his record, he has submitted last 10 opponents, all in the first round, with only one lasting more then 2 minutes. That is pretty darn impressive. Alessio Sakara has been exposed on the ground far too much, and I see him being another victim.
Winner by Submission in the first round: James Lee
Chrisl972: This is going to be a fun fight. You have Sakara, who has lightning fast hands, and you have Lee, who never had a fight go to a decision. First off Lee is a local boy here in the Detroit Area and seems to be a serious threat as a fighter. Sakara's no joke either and I think that these two mixing it up is going to be a lot of fun. Lee has never been knocked out in a fight and I'm hoping that means he's not going to be afraid to trade with Sakara. I believe that Lee will make it through the stand up long enough to get Sakara down and get the fight stopped early. Out of 15 fights, Lee's only had one make it out of the first round. I really see Lee taking it to Sakara quick and hard. My prediction is
Lee via 1st rd Submission (RNC)
Damone: Alessio Sakara is a guy with a lot of talent, but the problem is, that he doesn't even use it, and often loses in embarrassing fashion. Lee's a solid sub guy, who will probably take it to the ground. Sakara, I think, will avoid the subs, and GnP Lee until the ref jumps on him. Alessio Sakara is like Joe Riggs, in that he comes back looking solid after losing in embarrassing fashion.
Outcome: Alessio Sakara by TKO in the second.
IronMan: As has been alluded to, Alessio Sakara is a great boxer with a sh*tty submission game. While I see him having the advantage standing up, I don't think that his boxing background grants him the clinch skills or the lower body attacks (leg kicks, knees, etc) necessary to really keep his opponent at decent range. I see this fight hitting the ground early and Sakara doing something stupid, like leaving an arm out or sticking his neck in a guillotine.
Result: Lee by Submission, Round 1
kds13: Sakara is one of those on again, off again types. He's moved to ATT in an attempt to invigorate his ground game and train with some better dudes. I think it will definitely help his career, but not as much as a move to MW would. He seriously needs to drop to 185. James Lee has fought good competition and has a great ground game. I honestly think this is another upset, with James Lee getting through Sakara's punches, getting it to the mat and submitting Legionarius.
Result: James Lee by Submission, Round 2.
screenamesuck: I don't think Sakara was ever ready to enter the mma game. Lee on the other hand is much more well rounded and is a KOTC champion. Sakara's only chance is to get the KO, but Lee has never been knocked out. I think this will be a quick fight.
Outcome: Lee via 1st round submission.
TREY: It has got to be do or die at this point for Sakara. His boxing may be very dynamic, but I am pretty confident when I say that I bet he can't spell "grapple" or "submission." Joining ATT might help for the future, but not this fight. He'll come out early, dance around like he does, throw a few punches, Lee will bullrush him. From there, this fight is pretty much academic. Lee will smother Alessio on the mat, eventually Sakara's will gets broken (and it will happen), and Lee will sub him out. Alessio has the mindset, as well as the skill set to be a pure boxer, not an MMA fighter.
Outcome: James Lee via Submission (Arm Triangle) - RD 2
UFCFAN33: I think that Lee will come out and work for the take down right away. It wouldn't be smart for him to stand and trade with Sakara. Once Lee gets Sakara to the ground, he will ground and pound Sakara and submit him.
Lee by submission Round 1
Consensus Pick: James Lee (7 Votes To 1)
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The staff has spoken. Now it's your turn. Feel free to post you own picks for UFC 80 in this thread.
All other prediction threads will be merged here.
MMA Forum Speaks: UFC 80
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