Rashad Evans has remained among one of the more consistent fighters in the light heavyweight division for the past few years.
Despite being on the losing end of one of the most vicious knockouts in UFC history, Evans has worked his way back up to regain a light heavyweight title shot, and his chance couldn’t have come at a better time.
Slated to face Phil Davis, Evans was originally supposed to meet the 27-year-old prospect last summer before a knee injury postponed the bout, keeping a future title shot all but in reach for the 32-year-old.
But with both competitors seemingly healthy, the time to settle their difference is fitting for a television network debut when they headline UFC on FOX 2.
While he was praised for his speed and wrestling ability earlier on in his career, Evans has continued to evolve and adapt in the sport, while continuously finding ways to beat his opponents. “Suga” might have found his match in Davis, based on pure wrestling ability, but that won’t prevent the former light heavyweight champion from finding a way to earn the victory.
Davis’ striking is not fully developed, as he prefers to utilize his wresting to gain an advantage over his opponents, so look for Evans to try to expose Davis’ lack of strike defense.
“Suga” will want to keep his distance as often as he can so he can find his range and use his speed to get inside of Davis and land clean shots. It is unknown how Davis will react to getting hit. Evans will want to use his speed and boxing skills to put pressure on his opponent and test his heart.
Evans will want to beat Davis to the punch as much as possible. Being the faster, more aggressive fighter, Evans will put “Mr.Wonderful” in uncomfortable situations he’s not used to being in, neutralizing his wrestling and keeping him on the defense for a majority of the bout.
Should Evans capitalize on Davis’ striking inability and inexperience, he will have the necessary tools to carry out the win via unanimous decision, setting up a highly anticipated grudge match between him and Jones.
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