Tag: Prediction

So the time has finally come. The biggest event of the year, in UFC history is just right around the corner. As in next weekend. This weekend however is a bit of a primer for what’s to come at UFC 205 on November 12. While it may not sport the craziest line up out there, UFC Fight Night 98 features a compelling lightweight main event as former champion Rafael dos Anjos attempts to get back to his winning ways against the streaking Tony Ferguson.

Rafael dos Anjos was being touted as the most fearsome lightweight in the UFC when he was matched up against Eddie Alvarez this past July. Many picked Rafael to dominate, but was instead met with a vicious looping right hand that put him on roller skates and out of the fight. If Rafael wants to get back on track he’ll have to tangle with Tony Ferguson who is a difficult style match up for most everyone in the division. If Rafael dos Anjos hopes to get back to his winning ways he’ll have to employ a low kicking game as well as get the fight into the pocket. Ferguson’s come forward style will also leave him open for the takedown. When the fight hits the ground Rafael will have to deal with scrambles and will need to explode to stay on top. The best chance for victory would be for the former champion to pressure him up against the cage and beat up Ferguson’s legs and body.

On the other side of the equation, Tony Ferguson will want to keep his usually high paced style to confound dos Anjos. Ferguson utilizes his length well when he resorts to using his front kicks like a jab. As he pushes forward though he often finds himself with his back against the cage which could lead to a well timed takedown from the former champion. Ferguson’s ability to create chaos is a key factor in this match up as his high pace and funky techniques could force dos Anjos to get wild. The more wild the fight becomes, the more it favors Ferguson and it’ll be up to his opponent to either counter or suffer falling prey to a well timed cross or a scrambling submission.

All in all this is a pretty fun fight with no clear winner. Both are pressure fighters but employ their methods in different ways, dos Anjos being the patient stalker and Ferguson the wild ball of energy. Ultimately the wild pace that Ferguson puts on dos Anjos will prove to be the former champion’s undoing. Look for Tony Ferguson to secure a fight ending submission in the fourth round.

Who do you think will be victorious?

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Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.

 

The post UFC Fight Night 98 Prediction: Rafael dos Anjos vs Tony Ferguson appeared first on Cagepotato.