UFCThe Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is a U.S.-based mixed martial arts organization, recognized as the largest MMA promotion in the world. The UFC is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada and is owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC. This promotion is responsible for solidifying the sport's postion in the history-books.
UFC is currently undergoing a remarkable surge in popularity, along with greater mainstream media coverage. UFC programming can now be seen on Spike TV in the United States, as well as in 35 other countries worldwide.
Silva vs Irvin should be fun while it lasts. James Irvin's pretty underrated, and could use his top notch wrestling to take Anderson down. The main problem with Irvin is that his striking is so good, that he doesn't need to use his wrestling. He'll need to use it here.
Franca vs Edgar should be a blast to watch. I'm thinking Frankie by close decision.
I think Vera's going to handle Andy with ease. Reese isn't a bad fighter by any means, but his stand-up isn't on Vera's level and good luck trying to get Vera down.
I can see why people would think this may go to decision, but I completely disagree for a couple of reasons. First, what I think the assumption of some is, is that because of the styles it will be a more cautious fight. Irving knows what he's up against, so he'll pick his battles. The reason that's not going to happen is because of Silva's aggression. He's constantly circling his opponent, throwing jabs and staying out of reach, which doubles as a take-down defense because of how far out he keeps his hips while he jabs. I'm almost positive the fight will go one of these two ways: Silva will circle around Irving and catch him with a couple of good jabs. If Irving tries to shoot (which I think he might) Anderson will just do what he has been doing, he'll move backwards and drop down punches. Irving will get dazed pretty early in the fight and then Silva will finish it by catching him with some heavy blows once he gets dazed. The only flaw in my analysis is if Irving's wrestling is a lot better than I'm expecting. And if Hendo's wasn't good enough, I don't believe Irvings will be. Anyways, that's my prediction. I agree with the rest of the card looking bad as well.
Keep in mind that Rampage has said that James Irvin was one of the hardest hitters he's ever sparred with. Rampage's chin is pretty damn solid, and that was in a sparring session. Imagine what the trademarked Superman punch would do to Anderson Silva.