UFC Middleweight bout: Alessio Sakara vs. Chris Weidman
Odds: (+200 Sakara /-260 Weidman )
Betting Pick: Weidman
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In the third bout, undefeated Matt Serra student Chris Weidman makes his UFC debut against heavy-handed Italian veteran Alessio Sakara. Weidman has looked very solid and well-rounded going undefeated in his first four fights, but Sakara is a dangerous veteran who represents a big step up in competition for him. Will Weidman’s well-rounded game allow him to step up successfully, or will Sakara’s dynamic striking prove more than he can handle?
Weidman, undefeated so far in his 4 fight career, has looked very good so far, showing a complete offensive skill set. A Matt Serra student, Weidman clearly has effective submissions, but he has actually won more of his fights with his dangerous and powerful striking. Clearly he has the offensive tools to go far as a fighter, but he has yet to face any legitimate top-level competition, so the question is whether he will be able to handle the increased pressure and competition in the big show.
Sakara, a skilled veteran who trains out of American Top Team, is a very dangerous and effective striker. He doesn’t have much in the way of offensive grappling or wrestling, but his takedown and submission defense are serviceable. What he does have is great punches and kicks, great handspeed and accuracy, and a lot of power. He is also very tough and can absorb shots and keep coming forward.
This is a winnable fight for Weidman, if he can handle the pressure of his UFC debut well. He is going to be vastly superior to Sakara on the ground, and can probably hold his own in the standup too. I don’t think he will win the striking exchanges, but he is more than competent enough to keep himself in the fight, set up takedowns, and control this fight on the ground. Weidman by decision.
Prediction: Chris Weidman via Unanimous Decision.
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