An undefeated heavyweight prospect will meet a wily veteran known for derailing hype trains at UFC 145 in Atlanta when Travis Browne meets Chad Griggs.
Browne has amassed a 12-0-1 record through his career, which includes six KO victories in under a minute. The lone “blemish” on his record came against Cheick Kongo in his second UFC bout.
Physically gifted at 6’7″ and about 250 pounds, Browne has the god-given tools to become a force in the heavyweight division. I’ve met Browne in person, and trust me, he really is that big (he made me feel small, and I’m 6’5″ and 270 pounds).
Besides the natural physical gifts, we see a new and improved Browne each time he steps inside the Octagon.
Griggs, meanwhile, has been floating through different organizations throughout the years and finally found a home in Strikeforce. He’s most known for his victory over Bobby Lashley, in which Griggs beat down the former WWE star both physically and mentally.
The former Strikeforce heavyweight finds himself in a familiar position at UFC 145. Browne is the young, up-and-coming fighter who seems destined to wear a UFC title. Griggs can play the part of spoiler, but it won’t be easy.
Griggs is giving up a lot of height and reach along with a considerable size disadvantage. Griggs normally weighs in around the 230-pound mark, while Browne is much closer to the 265-pound limit.
For Griggs to derail another hype train, he’s going to have to press Browne against the fence or attempt to take the big Hawaiian down to the ground. Browne’s height and reach will be negated in both areas.
I don’t believe Griggs will be able to impose his will in such a way to take out Browne, and I see the heavyweight prospect continuing his undefeated ways. Browne trains with a great camp at Jackson’s MMA, which will have the prospect ready for battle.
Prediction: Browne by TKO
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