Before Jon Jones defends his light heavyweight title against Vitor Belfort in the main event of UFC 152, there are a number of great fights to keep fans excited.
People that do not want to spend money on the pay-per-view will be more than satisfied with the preliminary card on FX. There are four bouts across four weight classes that have competitors looking for their big break.
While there are no titles on the line in these matches, the fighters will work hard to add a win to their records.
Igor Pokrajac vs. Vinny Magalhaes
Each of these fighters could be contenders in the light heavyweight division. They have both shown that they can stay with top talent, and with the right game plan, they can come out victorious.
Magalhaes has especially been on a hot streak lately, winning his last five bouts. He is a submission specialist, with seven of his nine victories coming by tap out. Pokrajac has had impressive wins over Fabio Maldonado and Krzysztof Soszynski over the past year, but it will be difficult to defend his opponent’s tough holds.
Prediction: Magalhaes wins by submission
T.J. Grant vs. Evan Dunham
Grant has only recently started competing in the lightweight division has fared well with a 2-0 record. He has shown he has the endurance to go the distance if necessary, but his inability to finish off opponents could hurt in this competitive bout.
Dunham is a Jiu-Jitsu specialist who is solid both on his feet and on the mat. He has been more consistent in his career and should be able to use his experience to come out victorious.
Prediction: Dunham wins by decision
Sean Pierson vs. Lance Benoist
This is a classic matchup between youth and experience. Pierson has been competing in the sport since 1999 and has had various success. Conversely, Benoist has only competed in six MMA events, only two of which were in the UFC.
Still, the youngster has shown plenty of potential in his young career. He is coming off his first career loss against Seth Baczynski, but it was a close bout that ended in a split decision.
If he learns from his mistakes, Benoist could be one of the better competitors throughout UFC.
Prediction: Benoist wins by decision
Jimy Hettes vs. Marcus Brimage
Hettes is new to UFC, but he is on the path towards being a contender in the featherweight division. He is undefeated in his 10-bout career and won his first nine by submission.
His only weakness is his inexperience, but Brimage does not have enough to counter. Hettes should be able to continue his domination of the sport as he uses this match as a stepping-stone to greater things.
Prediction: Hettes wins by submission
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