May 10
7
UFC 113 Picks
Keeping this one short because I’m seriously busy today, but below are my picks for the main card of UFC 113.
Mauricio “Shogun” Rua vs. Lyoto Machida: I’m going with Shogun, partly because I know my girlfriend will root for the karate fighter, but also partly because I believe Shogun will right the wrong that was committed in their last fight. He’ll get the belt by close decision, and we’ll end up looking forward to a rubber match between these two outstanding fighters.
Jeremy Stephens vs. Sam Stout: This is a real “Sophie’s Choice.” I really enjoyed interviewing Jeremy Stephens for FightPastor.com. I love that he’s a family man, and that he’s training hard to put on a good show with Sam Stout. Either way this fight goes, I’m anticipating a Fight of the Night with these two. When you go after Stephens, he comes back at you with the entire arsenal. That said, I think Stout’s power can’t be ignored. Put me down for a knockout from Stout, but in my heart, I’m going to be cheering for the “Li’l Heathen.”
Josh Koscheck vs. Paul Daley: Koscheck is great, but Daley has the knockout power. For all Koscheck’s boasting about keeping this fight standing, he’ll take down Daley and grind out a decision at the first sign of trouble. So unless Daley knocks him out with the first few punches that land (which is always a possibility with “Semtex”), it’ll be Koscheck by decision, earning him a position as coach for The Ultimate Fighter Season 12, and a title shot against rival coach Georges “Rush” St. Pierre.
Kimbo Slice vs. Matt Mitrione: This is going to be an ugly fight, especially after the weigh-ins, when Mitrione comes in 30lbs. heavier. Mitrione should take Kimbo down and keep him there. Unless Kimbo’s wrestling and escapes are greatly improved, Mitrione should win this fight. Mitrione by decision. I hate saying that, because I really like Kimbo a lot. He interacts with his fans regularly, and genuinely loves this sport that he’s been thrust into. I really want him to win, but I don’t think he’s got it in him to overcome 30lbs.
Patrick Coté vs. Alan Belcher: This is a tough fight to call. In any normal circumstances, I think you’d give this fight to Coté in a walk. However, coming off a long layoff, cage rust is going to be an issue, and Belcher is too dangerous to give any advantages to … provided he can keep you at distance. I think for his first fight back from a layoff, Coté will look to exploit that with a tight clinch game and grind out a victory.
If you’re in the Seattle area, come watch the fight with FightPastor.com and meet Demico Rogers! We’ll have food, giveaways, and a couple hundred rowdy fans to enjoy the fights on 4 HD screens with! You’ve got to be there!