The Ultimate Fighting championship will close out 2011 with the UFC 141 fight card. Here are my predictions for the UFC 141 fight card, set for Dec. 30, at the MGM Garden Arena in Las Vegas, NV:
Brock Lesnar versus Alistair Overeem
This is a very intriguing matchup between two former title holders. Overeem clearly has the striking advantage, while Lesnar is the better wrestler. Lesnar hasn’t been inside the Octagon for over a year, and I’m not sure he’ll be sharp enough to handle Overeem. Overeem has the tools needed to keep the fight off the ground (2005 ADCC champion), and I expect him to become the number one contender in the UFC’s heavyweight division. Overeem wins via TKO.
Nate Diaz versus Donald Cerrone
The best fight on the entire UFC 141 fight card, this bout has the potential for some serious fireworks. Diaz displayed his improved boxing skills against Takanori Gomi at UFC 135, and I’m sure Cerrone won’t might trading blows with him. Cerrone remains undefeated in the UFC, but he’ll be in for his toughest test in the promotion when he faces Diaz. Given Diaz’ superior BJJ, he’ll have the advantage if the fight goes to the ground. Diaz wins by submission.
Jon Fitch versus Johny Hendricks
Fitch feels he’s been slighted by the UFC, and he’ll try to take his frustration out on Hendricks when the two meet inside the Octagon. While his fighting style isn’t the most entertaining in the world, Fitch is still one of the best welterweights in the UFC, and I just don’t see Hendricks pulling off the upset. Fitch wins by decision.
Vladimir Matyushenko versus Alexander Gustafsson
Many think this will be an easy fight for Gustafsson, but I doubt that will be the case. Matyushenko has been in the cage with some of the best light-heavyweights in the world, and his wrestling will cause problems for Gustafsson. Matyushenko wins via TKO.
Nam Phan versus Jimy Hettes
Hettes’ undefeated record will be put to the test when he faces Nam Phan at UFC 141. Hettes certainly has a lot of potential, but I don’t think he’s ready for a crafty veteran like Nam. Phan wins via KO.
Undercard:
Junior Assunção defeats Ross Pearson
Anthony Njokuani defeats Danny Castillo
Dong Hyun Kim defeats Sean Pierson
Jacob Volkmann defeats Efrain Escudero
Luis Ramos defeats Matt Riddle
Diego Nunes defeats Manvel Gamburyan
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