These “Quick Breaks” are short breakdowns of upcoming fights. In a summed up focus of strengths, weaknesses and variables, this article will analyze what could happen in the fight, and ends with this writer’s prediction.
On Saturday, the UFC will return to Chicago for its second event on FOX. Headlining the card is a light heavyweight showdown between Rashad Evans and Phil Davis. Both men are hungry for their shot at the title, especially Evans—who has been in the top contender spot before, but injury has kept him just out of reach.
His ticket back into the spot he has become familiar with is a win over Phil Davis. Davis is a collegiate wrestler who not only can put you on your back, but can finish the fight wherever it goes. Truly a well-rounded fighter, he is not afraid to use his hands, or go to the ground and work. His submissions are great, and he uses them in an impressive fashion. He does have power in his hands, but his wrestling is his foundation for victory.
Davis is undefeated in the UFC and in his MMA career. He is currently 9-0, and now will be facing his toughest challenge in the Octagon yet. Threatening his win streak and shot at the title is the versatile Rashad Evans. Evans himself has a good wrestling background, and has a well-rounded style as well.
While not undefeated, Evans only has one blemish on his record—a loss to former champ Lyoto Machida. Currently he is 16-1-1. Rashad is looking to get back to the title shot, to hopefully face his former training partner-turned-rival, Jon Jones. It has been made clear that if Evans wins and comes out with little wear and tear, he will get the next title shot.
Dan Henderson, however, is waiting on the sideline. He will surely be rooting for Davis to win, providing a smooth path for Hendo to jump right in and get his shot at the LHW title. Evans must first get past Davis, and in good standing for the Jones vs. Evans to take place, but Davis will be looking to make his own statement for a shot. Davis has not fought in almost a year due to a knee issue, and how Davis’ recovery has gone might affect his ability to wrestle against Evans effectively.
Evans possesses the same abilities that Davis has, minus a history of submissions. The submission advantage goes to Davis, but the knockout power goes to Evans. Both fighters are exciting and have great strength, making this fight intriguing far beyond just the title implications.
Prediction: Phil Davis wins via TKO about two minutes into the second round or submission within the first four minutes of round one.
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