UFC Heavyweight bout: Roy Nelson vs. Cheick Kongo
Odds: (-230 Nelson /+180 Kongo )
Betting Pick: Nelson
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In a featured Heavyweight matchup, two skilled strikers will go at it as Roy “Big Country” Nelson faces French kickboxer Cheick Kongo. Both of these guys have solid chins and dangerous punching power, which means that this should be an exciting fight. Not only that, both of these guys have very underrated wrestling and top control, which means that they are very evenly matched.
Cheick Kongo is a very dangerous offensive fighter who combines great technical striking, solid punching power, underrated wrestling, and destructive ground and pound. He has the ability to end fights standing or from top position and every strike he throws has fight-ending potential. Where Kongo struggles is in dealing with opponents who won’t let him dictate the pace and position of the fight. When put in a disadvantageous position, Kongo tends to struggle.
Roy Nelson doesn’t look the part of a world-class fighter, but judging a book by its cover is never a good idea. Nelson has a granite chin and a surplus of punching power. In addition, he is a very solid wrestler with great jiu-jitsu who has mastered using his bulk to control opponents from top position. Against Kongo, it is very possible that he could win a striking match, but I think his ability to put Kongo on his back and control how the fight plays out is his best weapon.
This is a close matchup, but I give the edge to Nelson pretty much however this fight plays out. I think on the feet Nelson’s bullying style will prevent Kongo from taking control, and I think that Nelson has the added safety valve of being able to secure a takedown whenever he needs to. Ultimately, I don’t think Kongo will be able to mount enough offense, and Nelson will walk away with the unanimous decision victory.
Prediction: Roy Nelson by Unanimous Decision.
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