While UFC 149 has been somewhat marred by high-profile fighters dropping out of the event (Jose Aldo, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira and Michael Bisping, to name a few), the main event between Urijah Faber and Renan Barao should be a thrilling encounter.
Faber is the big name of the two, but Barao boasts a 30-1 record (with 18 wins in a row) and is deadly on his feet. As the popular saying goes, “Styles make fights,” and this one is certainly a compelling clash of styles between the two fighters.
So how will this one play out?
Faber will want to take the fight to the mat as quickly and often as possible, while Barao will look to keep him at bay with his solid kicking.
That will be easier said than done. Faber is experienced, lightning-quick and creative in his approach to securing a takedown, and he’s adept enough standing up that he need not sloppily rush into his attempts. No, he can’t hang with Barao if the majority of the fight stays off the mat, but he can certainly hang on his feet during flurries of action.
If the fight does go to the mat, Faber’s ground-and-pound and submission game will be too much for Barao to consistently overcome.
But let us not underestimate Barao either. He is very good at staying on his feet, has excellent speed himself and has finished off his fair share of opponents either by knockout or submission.
And it’s not as though he’s some sitting duck if Faber manages to take him down. He’s fully capable of working out of a takedown or turning the tables on Faber once on the mat.
Whichever fighter gains the early advantage should win the fight late. If Faber continues to take Barao down, he’ll wear him out and either out-point him or finish him via submission. But if Barao stays on his feet, he’ll frustrate Faber and should win an exciting decision.
In the end, Faber’s big-fight experience, versatility and speed will win the decision in a very close fight. The card for UFC 149 might leave a bit to be desired, but the main event should be a doozy.
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