UFC Bout: Vitor Belfort vs. Luke Rockhold
Odds: ( -105 Belfort / -125 Rockhold )
Betting Pick: Rockhold
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In the main event of UFC on FX 8, devastating striker Vitor “The Phenom” Belfort will square off against Strikeforce veteran Luke Rockhold in a featured Middleweight bout. This is not just a meeting of two world-class Middleweights, it is in many ways a classic, old-school striker vs. grappler matchup. There is no question that Belfort is the superior striker of the two, but Rockhold’s dominant wrestling and ability to control position make him a dangerous style matchup for the long-time veteran.
Vitor Belfort was once considered one of the most exciting young prospects in the sport. In his recent fights, he has shown that fabled “Old Vitor” potential coupled with the added experience and wisdom that only come with age. Belfort is a special fighter, in that every single time he throws a punch it has fight-ending potential. He has devastating technique and hand speed and some of the most explosive punching power in the Middleweight division. On the ground, Belfort is actually quite underrated, but I don’t fancy his chances in a grappling match with Rockhold. If Belfort wins this fight, it will be by denying the takedown and punishing Rockhold on the feet.
Luke Rockhold was one of Strikeforce’s most exciting up and coming young stars before being brought into the UFC fold. Rockhold is the physical prototype of a fighter, a durable and athletic powerhouse who can physically dominate opponents for a 25-minute fight. His striking is actually pretty good, but I don’t think anyone expects him to survive an extended standup fight with Belfort. Rockhold’s key to success is his superior wrestling and the fact that he is much more equipped to take this fight into the “championship rounds” than Belfort.
There is no question that, at this point, Vitor has a more impressive track record than Rockhold. Vitor has fought and beaten better fighters than Rockhold has, and Vitor represents arguably the toughest opponent Rockhold has ever faced. That said, I think Rockhold’s superior physicality and ability to wear Vitor down with wrestling, clinches, and cage control are going to present big problems for Vitor. I think Rockhold will have to weather an early storm, but eventually he’ll take control of this fight and do enough to earn a unanimous decision victory in his UFC debut.
Prediction: Luke Rockhold by Unanimous Decision.
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