Quarter-finals have arrived, and now the competition gets serious. Like any other Ultimate Fighter season, the quarter-fianls is when I give my prediction for each fight, and now is as good a time as any to give my two cents. My total past TUF predictions are just over 72%, so let’s see if I can keep up the success.
Collin Hart vs. Kelvin Gastelum
Both fighters won their fights by beating their opponent on the ground. Hart was able to stifle any submission attempts from Kevin Casey, but Casey seemed content in attacking off his back, where Gastelum will look to be the one in top position. Also, Casey’s only real offense was his Jiu-Jitsu, while Bubba McDaniel was much bigger threat to Gastelum on the feet. McDaniel was seen as one of the more experienced and talented guys in the competition, so it seems to me like Gastelum was able to overcome more adversity than Hart. When it comes down to it, I see Gastelum outworking Hart wherever the fight goes. The wrestling may be close, but Gastelum is just dying to showcase his knockout power.
Pick : Kelvin Gastelum
Dylan Andrews vs. Luck Barnatt
The first pick of the season vs. the last pick of the season, who do you think I’ll pick? Like Chael Sonnen said, Barnatt outworked everyone. This guy can strike with you, take you down, and sweep you when he’s taken down. As the tallest fighter, he has one hell of a reach advantage, and quite honestly, I don’t know how Andrews could possibly come out the victor. Zak Cummings was lighting him up on the feet, and even had him in some bad positions. Andrews eventually reversed the position, and Cummings didn’t have an answer. Against Barnatt, I don’t see the fight playing out the same at all. Barnatt will defend all takedown attempts, and if his takes Andrews down, He’ll keep him down.
Pick : Luke Barnatt
Still two more quarter-final match ups to go, and two more days to see if the fights turn out anything like I predicted. Hopefully bragging rights will be in order. As always, welcome to your comments pertaining to the fights, regardless whether you agree or not.
– Ryan “Fight Freek” Poli
@FightFreek