These “Quick Breaks” are short breakdowns of upcoming fights. In a summed up focus of strengths, weaknesses and variables; this will analyze what could happen in the fight, and end with this writer’s prediction.
After all the injuries, switching and no-showing; the epic welterweight showdown between Georges St. Pierre and Nick Diaz is finally upon us. A fight that has been anticipated since Diaz was holding his own in Strikeforce, the two have finally lined up to find out who is the top welterweight in the UFC.
In the blue corner, you have Nick Diaz. A phenomenal jiu-jitsu practitioner, Diaz has shown his ferocity on the ground but is also known for his striking prowess.
He brings a well-rounded challenge to any opponent, as well as the mental fortitude and attitude to exude confidence in his fights. His trash-talking and brash ways are weapons themselves, and if there was any doubt of that, they have resulted in getting GSP fired up to a point we rarely see from the champ.
In the red corner, you have Georges St. Pierre. “Rush” has dominated the welterweight division for years, using his superior wrestling, technical skills and game planning to outclass many of his opponents.
GSP has a strong presence on the ground and a forte in takedowns, but this has built a double-edged sword in his reputation. He is highly criticized for his alleged lack of “Wanting to finish the fight” but has shown acknowledgment of that fact and the desire to capitalize on more opportunities.
This is a very interesting style matchup for both men.
GSP is a fighter you can count on to take it to the ground at some point, but the danger lies in the submission game of Diaz. With Diaz so strong on the ground, GSP may want to keep this standing; also giving him the better chance of finishing Diaz.
Diaz’s boxing is revered by others but is sloppy when compared to GSP’s. This could be a plus or a minus for Diaz.
Such an unorthodox style could cause GSP to be frustrated and throw him off his game due to the lack of technicality. To compare it, it is similar to when a novice video-gamer gets the best of a pro due to his drastically different style and lack of the typical style of competition the pro is used to.
At the end of the night, we will see a very technical fight, with GSP on the feet or Diaz on the ground. GSP’s technical and smart game planning will help him be prepared for this fight, but he will want to use his quick strikes to hurt Diaz and then look for opportunities to finish.
Even though GSP could walk away with a TKO, history favors another unanimous decision from the Canadian superstar.
Prediction: GSP wins via decision
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