[JIBBBY]

OK Paper.. Work on building those bet points up buddy... It's always fun betting points with other SBR PRO's... I'm always game for a friendly wager among SBR friends...

[PaperTrail07]

100% I'll make it happen...

OK Paper.. Work on building those bet points up buddy... It's always fun betting points with other SBR PRO's... I'm always game for a friendly wager among SBR friends...

[JIBBBY]

I like Waterson also... I feel way more technical

I'm thinking Rose will be more busy though.. Karate hottie is tough and this is actually a decent chick fight.. A couple of small chicks I've seen fight many times... Leaning Rose myself and maybe by decision...

FOX Main Card



Rose
Namajunas
"Thug"
vs
Michelle
Waterson
"The Karate Hottie"

USA
Country
USA

6-3-0
Record
14-4-0

0%
KO/TKO
21%

83%
SUB
64%

17%
DEC
14%

65 in
Height
63 in

115 lbs
Weight
115 lbs

65 in
Reach
62 in

39 in
Leg Reach
35 in

[JIBBBY]

MMA MANIA prelims -




205 lbs.: Devin Clark vs. Jake Collier
Like so many of his “Lookin’ for a Fight” compatriots, Devin Clark (7-1) stumbled out of UFC’s gate with a knockout loss to Alex Nicholson in July 2016. Returning to Light Heavyweight, he took on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 23 veteran Josh Stansbury and soundly outworked him for a decision win.

In addition to his four professional stoppages, Clark went 5-0 (5 KO) as an amateur.
Jake Collier (10-3) earned seven finishes in his first nine fights — six of them in the first round — to earn a shot in the world’s largest fight promotion. “The Prototype” has since gone 2-2, alternating losses and wins, and most recently knocked out Brazilian grinder Alberto “Uda” at UFC Fight Night 88.
This will be his first fight in almost 11 months.
With all due respect to Collier, this is a showcase fight for Clark. Collier has spent his entire UFC career at Middleweight and looked decidedly mediocre there, while Clark is easily at or above the level of Vitor Miranda or Dongi Yang, both of whom knocked Collier silly.
It’s an awful stylistic match up for Collier as well, since he’ll likely struggle to get the takedown and has few answers for Clark’s boxing on the feet. Expect “Brown Bear” to dominate wherever the fight goes. The only real question is whether he’ll get the finish.
Prediction: Clark via unanimous decision

185 lbs.: Anthony Smith vs. Andrew Sanchez
Seven consecutive wins, including a revenge knockout of Josh Neer, brought Anthony Smith (26-12) back to UFC after his initial winless (0-2) run. “Lionheart” has done much better this time around, going 2-1 so far and recently obliterating Elvis Mutapcic in a bonus-winning effort.

All but three of his wins have come by knockout or submission.
Andrew Sanchez (9-2) carried Team Claudia Gadelha’s flag all the way to TUF 23 Finale, where he dominated Khalil Rountree for a unanimous decision win. He then took on gritty veteran Trevor Smith and took home a decision for his fourth consecutive professional win.
He will give up three inches of height to the 6’4” Smith.
Smith honestly looks like he’s still improving after nearly 40 professional fights. His striking looked sharper than ever against Mutapcic and he proved that he can fight through early adversity. That said, his takedown defense failed him badly against Cezar “Mutante” and Sanchez is a very effective grappler.
That might be all it takes to decide it. Smith’s go-for-broke bruising lends itself to exploitation by heavy hitters and opportunistic takedown artists, both roles that Sanchez can comfortably fill. Expect “El Dirte” to disrupt his rhythm and drain his gas tank with regular takedowns, ultimately pounding him out midway through.
Prediction: Sanchez via second-round technical knockout

135 lbs.: Aljamain Sterlingvs. Augusto Mendes
Aljamain Sterling (12-2) staked his claim as one of the Bantamweight division’s best prospects with four straight UFC wins, including impressive submissions of Takeya Mizugaki and Johnny Eduardo. Unfortunately, “The Funkmaster” will enter Saturday night’s fight on the heels of split decision losses to Bryan Caraway and Raphael Assuncao.

He will have a six-inch reach advantage come fight night.
Augusto Mendes’ (6-1)impeccable Brazilian jiu-jitsu credentials weren’t enough to save him in his late-notice UFC debut against Cody Garbrandt. They weren’t much needed in his next bout, which saw him outstrike gritty veteran Frankie Saenz for a Fight of the Night-winning split decision.
“Tanquinho” owns four wins by submission and one by (technical) knockout.
Sterling has to win this decisively. His prowess on the ground is unquestionable, but his heart and cardio looked shaky against Caraway and the Assuncao was just a stinker all around. Mendes’ ground game is enough of a deterrent to force Sterling to strike and “Tanquinho” is plenty dangerous there.
Still, I do think Sterling can win this. Even if he doesn’t engage on the ground, he can keep Mendes on his toes with occasional takedowns and his long-range kicking ought to pay dividends against the Brazilian’s straightforward onslaught. I could see this going either way, but I’m leaning toward Sterling’s length and experience.
Prediction: Sterling via unanimous decision

170 lbs.: Zak Cummings vs. Nathan Coy
Though he fell short on TUF 17, Zak Cummings (20-5) quickly carved out a place for himself in UFC’s Welterweight division with five wins in seven fights. Most recently, he bounced back from a decision loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio with an impressive straight armbar against Russian veteran Alexander Yakovlev.

He has submitted ten professional opponents and knocked out another five.
Nathan Coy (15-6) lost his first fight in TUF 21’s house, but came up big with a clutch decision over Valdir Araujo for 100 points. He’s gone 1-1 in UFC proper, falling to Danny Roberts before taking a decision over Jonavin Webb in Feb. 2016.
He will give up two inches of height to the 6’0” Cummings.
I just don’t think Coy has enough left in the tank at this point. He’s pushing 40 and was soundly finished in two of his last three pro fights. Add the layoff and Cummings’ sheer size and you have a recipe for disaster.
Coy might be able to grind his way to a decision, but Cummings’ strength, superior striking and sneaky submissions present the sort of physically taxing challenge that Coy’s no longer equipped to handle. Cummings rocks him early and proceeds to tap him.
Prediction: Cummings via first-round submission

135 lbs.: Ashlee Evans-Smith vs. Ketlen Vieira
Ashlee Evans-Smith (5-1) suffered the first loss of her professional career in her UFC debut when Raquel Pennington put her to sleep with a vicious bulldog choke. She scraped past Marion Reneau in her next fight, then pounded out Venezuelan prospect Veronica Macedo for her first stoppage win since 2014.

Three of her five wins have come by form of knockout.
Ketlen Vieira (7-0) opened her professional career with five consecutive finishes, three of them in the first round. In her Octagon debut, she leaned on her wrestling to take a competitive decision over Kelly Faszholz at UFC Fight Night 96.
She owns three wins by submission and two via (technical) knockout.
Evans-Smith remains fairly one-dimensional, but that dimension is perfect for Vieira. The Brazilian lacks the striking nuance to overpower Evans-Smith on the feet and, as the less-credentialed wrestler, will run into trouble if she tries to repeat her efforts against Faszholz.
Though Evans-Smith won’t be a title challenger until she can put together a competent striking game and blend it with her takedowns, fighting her demands takedown defense that I’m not sure Vieira possesses. Evans-Smith stops her late.
Prediction: Evans-Smith via third-round technical knockout

[ufcmma36]

Taking Rose for sure

[firekillex]

forgot Al JO was on this card, hoping he bounces back with a nice win

[Ty$]

Kinda like Anthony Smoth and Smolka both @+230 on bovada

[RussianMike]

I don't think you are giving Whittaker enough respect.. His take down defense is very good, and he can knock people out..

RW looked good against Brunson in his last fight. He's on a 6 fight win streak as well.http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Robert-Whittaker-45132

Whittaker too unpolished and raw. Not on the same level as Souza. Oh and BTW, never add Brunson to a KO comp. That's just plain gratuitous. Why is that dude even in the UFC. Souza's Brunson KO better anyway, cause he KO'd the dude probably 3 times in a 5 second span.

[RussianMike]

Anyone else here looking at how much Wilson's improved wrestling gonna cut into any speed advantage DJ may have? Is it time to worry?

[SEKTAUR]

Rose I think is the call and maybe by decision.. The Karate hottie I think gets out worked in this scrap..

UFC on FOX 24 - Strawweight 3 rounds - Sprint Center - Kansas City, Missouri - FOX

Sat 4/15		1101 Michelle Waterson		+115	o2½ -175
9:00PM		1102 Rose Namajunas		-135	u2½ +145

I was leaning Rose too. She does have the age, height, reach and leg reach advantage but fukk Water is just so hot. and also her kicking game is on point.

[Ty$]

I was leaning Rose too. She does have the age, height, reach and leg reach advantage but fukk Water is just so hot. and also her kicking game is on point.

I really feel like you're reading this fight wrong Waterson is more experienced better grappler better fight I Q she should win... this was for Jibbs

[Fight4m]

Speaking of Santa Claus... I mean Roy Nelson ,do you think he has a chance of beating Volkov? No chance my friends,he's old,he's just 6 ft tall lol,I don't see how Santa Claus can beat an 6'7 animal like Volkov.

[PaperTrail07]

Nelson will roll Volkov....

Speaking of Santa Claus... I mean Roy Nelson ,do you think he has a chance of beating Volkov? No chance my friends,he's old,he's just 6 ft tall lol,I don't see how Santa Claus can beat an 6'7 animal like Volkov.

[JIBBBY]

Anyone else here looking at how much Wilson's improved wrestling gonna cut into any speed advantage DJ may have? Is it time to worry?

Not wise to bet against Mighty Mouse ever.. The only question should be is how does DJ win, decision, KO or Sub?

11 fight win streak and counting.. Looking as good as ever - http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Demetrious-Johnson-45452

[JIBBBY]

I was leaning Rose too. She does have the age, height, reach and leg reach advantage but fukk Water is just so hot. and also her kicking game is on point.

Even though I am slightly leaning Rose, I may just end up taking the Over in this fight, odds are decent for the over considering and I don't think Rose will slap a sub on Hottie.... Both fighters are durable..

We've seen Rose get beat up before by Karolina K and Karate hottie does have twice as many fights and the experience going in her favor..... So I'm not super confident taking Rose.. I just think she'll press and be more active...

Sat 4/15		1101 Michelle Waterson		+115	o2½ -175
9:00PM		1102 Rose Namajunas		-135	u2½ +145

[Fight4m]

Nelson will roll Volkov....

Keep hoping Santa lands a powerful right,Volkov advantages will overcome everything Nelson has,exactly as Rumble fans ,they kept praying for a Lucky punch and never happened, this is no different, his only chance is a Lucky punch.

[PaperTrail07]

It would be the best win of Volkov's career.....and a nothing win for Nelson....simply another on his list...

Keep hoping Santa lands a powerful right,Volkov advantages will overcome everything Nelson has,exactly as Rumble fans ,they kept praying for a Lucky punch and never happened, this is no different, his only chance is a Lucky punch.

[PaperTrail07]

Nelson ...if I had to guess----if gonna come in HEAVY and push him all over the cage....last time around I had to convince people into Glover over Jarred "Alaskan proven" Cannonier...this is almost the same.....loads of top experience and skills VS min experience and skills that aren't as good....Volkov's boxing is sloppy and he thinks he can trade punches w people....Nelson could easily put him to sleep....TJ caught him and almost did...Volkov was lucky to escape with a split dec... Nelson by twice the skills and experience...

[PaperTrail07]

I also highly highly rec betting this

Sat 4/15		1801 Jake Collier		+115	o1½ -120
5:30PM		1802 Devin Clark		-145	u1½ -110

[PaperTrail07]

Clark is a wrestler and is a fav here....while I don't think -Juice is the play.....it means the TD is somewhat expected....he could literally sleep away a round of the 1.5......

[JIBBBY]

MMA Mania -




Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Middleweight contenders Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza and Robert Whittaker will duel this Saturday (April 15, 2017) at UFC on FOX 24 inside Sprint Center in Kansas City, Missouri.
Has Souza earned a title shot? Definitely. Will he ever receive one? Not if the powers that be ever have anything to say about it! Fresh off two first round stoppages that didn’t really need to happen, “Jacare” will attempt to earn another opposite a top young talent. In fairness to the matchmaking, Whittaker has definitely earned his chance to step up opposite a Top 5-ranked athlete. Fresh off his first main event slot, the Australian striker has won six straight at 185 pounds ... and looked damn good doing it.
Let’s take a look at the keys to victory for both men:
Ronaldo Souza
Record: 23-5 (1)
Key Wins: Gegard Mousasi (UFC Fight Night 50), Yushin Okami (UFC Fight Night 28), Francis Carmont (UFC Fight Night 36), Tim Boetsch (UFC 208)
Key Losses: Yoel Romero (UFC 194), Luke Rockhold (Strikeforce: Barnett vs Kharitonov)
Keys to Victory: Having recently secured his 17th submission win, Souza is perhaps the sport’s premiere submission specialist. He’s also a powerful striker with some strong takedowns, aided by his formidable athleticism.
In this bout, the strategy for both men is clear but fraught with danger. In Souza’s case, he must methodically cut off the cage and drive his foe to the fence. If he’s able to pin Whittaker, his chances of scoring the takedown go up dramatically.
Once on top, Souza will be in complete control.
It all sounds simple. Unfortunately, Whittaker is an excellent striker who controls range well and will counter any impatient attempts to close the distance, much like he did opposite Derek Brunson. To avoid that fate, Souza needs to stay smart. Rather than follow Whittaker, it’s imperative that Souza side steps and blocks Whittaker from circling. At some point, Whittaker will stand his ground and fire — it’s his nature — which is Souza’s moment to change levels and go.
VS.

Robert Whittaker
Record: 17-4
Key Wins: Derek Brunson (UFC Fight Night 101), Brad Tavares (UFC Fight Night 65), Uriah Hall (UFC 193), Rafael Natal (UFC 197)
Key Losses: Stephen Thompson (UFC 170), Court McGee (UFC Fight Night 27)
Keys to Victory: Whittaker is an expert striker, possessing a background in Karate and boxing. At Middleweight, his speed has proven to be a serious attribute, as Whittaker has been able to land more consistently due to his quickness.
Once again, it will be Whittaker’s speed and kickboxing skill opposite his opponent’s strength and grappling expertise.
For Whittaker, the obvious priority is to keep his back off the fence. To do so, it’s important that Whittaker earns Souza’s respect early, as Souza will simply try to bully him otherwise. Moving forward may increase the risk of a reactive shot, but it will at times be necessary to keep his foe honest. In addition to landing something hard early, Whittaker’s left hook could once again play a major factor. Souza has a habit of reaching with his right hand, which could provide the perfect opening for the left to slip through.
Bottom Line: This is a pivotal match up at 185 pounds.
There are three men at Middleweight who have earned a title shot: Yoel Romero, Gegard Mousasi, and the winner of this fight ... particularly in Souza’s case. If Souza wins again here, he becomes even harder to deny, even if Georges St-Pierre and Michael Bisping are holding up everything. On the other hand, a loss would be devastating for “Jacare.” Each of these extra fights he’s forced to take carry the same risk, as a single loss will eliminate much of the momentum that he’s built up.
Meanwhile, Whittaker has a chance to insert his name into the elite group at the top of the division. He’s not likely to earn a title shot with a win due to the divisional logjam, but he’s quite close and now established as a potential title contender moving forward. Alternatively, there’s not much to lose for Whittaker. It’s still pretty early in his career, so there will definitely be future chances for Whittaker to take this step.
At UFC on FOX 24, Ronaldo Souza and Robert Whittaker will compete to climb further up the Middleweight ladder. Which man will have his hand raised?

[SEKTAUR]

Jibby that over sounds like a pretty solid play.

[JIBBBY]

Jibby that over sounds like a pretty solid play.

Most of these small chicks at the higher UFC levels do go the distance.. It becomes a point contest..

Rose has had a bunch of submission finishes on her record (to lesser opponents though).. I think that alone drove down the odds on the O2.5.. Waterson is solid on the ground and I don't see Rose locking in anything or even taking her down.. Rose has proven also to take a beating standing as well.. She's tough and not easily finished..

Chances are this one goes the distance..

Over in my mind is a solid play.. That's why I mentioned it.. Odds are -170 and I never like to bet at those odds but this bet I still might...

[JIBBBY]

MMA MANIA prelims -




205 lbs.: Devin Clark vs. Jake Collier
Like so many of his “Lookin’ for a Fight” compatriots, Devin Clark (7-1) stumbled out of UFC’s gate with a knockout loss to Alex Nicholson in July 2016. Returning to Light Heavyweight, he took on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 23 veteran Josh Stansbury and soundly outworked him for a decision win.

In addition to his four professional stoppages, Clark went 5-0 (5 KO) as an amateur.
Jake Collier (10-3) earned seven finishes in his first nine fights — six of them in the first round — to earn a shot in the world’s largest fight promotion. “The Prototype” has since gone 2-2, alternating losses and wins, and most recently knocked out Brazilian grinder Alberto “Uda” at UFC Fight Night 88.
This will be his first fight in almost 11 months.
With all due respect to Collier, this is a showcase fight for Clark. Collier has spent his entire UFC career at Middleweight and looked decidedly mediocre there, while Clark is easily at or above the level of Vitor Miranda or Dongi Yang, both of whom knocked Collier silly.
It’s an awful stylistic match up for Collier as well, since he’ll likely struggle to get the takedown and has few answers for Clark’s boxing on the feet. Expect “Brown Bear” to dominate wherever the fight goes. The only real question is whether he’ll get the finish.
Prediction: Clark via unanimous decision

185 lbs.: Anthony Smith vs. Andrew Sanchez
Seven consecutive wins, including a revenge knockout of Josh Neer, brought Anthony Smith (26-12) back to UFC after his initial winless (0-2) run. “Lionheart” has done much better this time around, going 2-1 so far and recently obliterating Elvis Mutapcic in a bonus-winning effort.

All but three of his wins have come by knockout or submission.
Andrew Sanchez (9-2) carried Team Claudia Gadelha’s flag all the way to TUF 23 Finale, where he dominated Khalil Rountree for a unanimous decision win. He then took on gritty veteran Trevor Smith and took home a decision for his fourth consecutive professional win.
He will give up three inches of height to the 6’4” Smith.
Smith honestly looks like he’s still improving after nearly 40 professional fights. His striking looked sharper than ever against Mutapcic and he proved that he can fight through early adversity. That said, his takedown defense failed him badly against Cezar “Mutante” and Sanchez is a very effective grappler.
That might be all it takes to decide it. Smith’s go-for-broke bruising lends itself to exploitation by heavy hitters and opportunistic takedown artists, both roles that Sanchez can comfortably fill. Expect “El Dirte” to disrupt his rhythm and drain his gas tank with regular takedowns, ultimately pounding him out midway through.
Prediction: Sanchez via second-round technical knockout

135 lbs.: Aljamain Sterlingvs. Augusto Mendes
Aljamain Sterling (12-2) staked his claim as one of the Bantamweight division’s best prospects with four straight UFC wins, including impressive submissions of Takeya Mizugaki and Johnny Eduardo. Unfortunately, “The Funkmaster” will enter Saturday night’s fight on the heels of split decision losses to Bryan Caraway and Raphael Assuncao.

He will have a six-inch reach advantage come fight night.
Augusto Mendes’ (6-1)impeccable Brazilian jiu-jitsu credentials weren’t enough to save him in his late-notice UFC debut against Cody Garbrandt. They weren’t much needed in his next bout, which saw him outstrike gritty veteran Frankie Saenz for a Fight of the Night-winning split decision.
“Tanquinho” owns four wins by submission and one by (technical) knockout.
Sterling has to win this decisively. His prowess on the ground is unquestionable, but his heart and cardio looked shaky against Caraway and the Assuncao was just a stinker all around. Mendes’ ground game is enough of a deterrent to force Sterling to strike and “Tanquinho” is plenty dangerous there.
Still, I do think Sterling can win this. Even if he doesn’t engage on the ground, he can keep Mendes on his toes with occasional takedowns and his long-range kicking ought to pay dividends against the Brazilian’s straightforward onslaught. I could see this going either way, but I’m leaning toward Sterling’s length and experience.
Prediction: Sterling via unanimous decision

170 lbs.: Zak Cummings vs. Nathan Coy
Though he fell short on TUF 17, Zak Cummings (20-5) quickly carved out a place for himself in UFC’s Welterweight division with five wins in seven fights. Most recently, he bounced back from a decision loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio with an impressive straight armbar against Russian veteran Alexander Yakovlev.

He has submitted ten professional opponents and knocked out another five.
Nathan Coy (15-6) lost his first fight in TUF 21’s house, but came up big with a clutch decision over Valdir Araujo for 100 points. He’s gone 1-1 in UFC proper, falling to Danny Roberts before taking a decision over Jonavin Webb in Feb. 2016.
He will give up two inches of height to the 6’0” Cummings.
I just don’t think Coy has enough left in the tank at this point. He’s pushing 40 and was soundly finished in two of his last three pro fights. Add the layoff and Cummings’ sheer size and you have a recipe for disaster.
Coy might be able to grind his way to a decision, but Cummings’ strength, superior striking and sneaky submissions present the sort of physically taxing challenge that Coy’s no longer equipped to handle. Cummings rocks him early and proceeds to tap him.
Prediction: Cummings via first-round submission

135 lbs.: Ashlee Evans-Smith vs. Ketlen Vieira
Ashlee Evans-Smith (5-1) suffered the first loss of her professional career in her UFC debut when Raquel Pennington put her to sleep with a vicious bulldog choke. She scraped past Marion Reneau in her next fight, then pounded out Venezuelan prospect Veronica Macedo for her first stoppage win since 2014.

Three of her five wins have come by form of knockout.
Ketlen Vieira (7-0) opened her professional career with five consecutive finishes, three of them in the first round. In her Octagon debut, she leaned on her wrestling to take a competitive decision over Kelly Faszholz at UFC Fight Night 96.
She owns three wins by submission and two via (technical) knockout.
Evans-Smith remains fairly one-dimensional, but that dimension is perfect for Vieira. The Brazilian lacks the striking nuance to overpower Evans-Smith on the feet and, as the less-credentialed wrestler, will run into trouble if she tries to repeat her efforts against Faszholz.
Though Evans-Smith won’t be a title challenger until she can put together a competent striking game and blend it with her takedowns, fighting her demands takedown defense that I’m not sure Vieira possesses. Evans-Smith stops her late.
Prediction: Evans-Smith via third-round technical knockout

MMA MANIA Part 2 -


265 lbs.: Alexander Volkov vs. Roy Nelson

Immediately following the end of his nine-fight Bellator MMA run, Alexander Volkov (27-6) submitted prospect Denis Smoldarev for the M-1 Heavyweight title and defended it with a knockout of Attila Vegh. This earned him a shot in UFC, where he scraped past Timothy Johnson in his Nov. 2016 debut.
Eighteen of his professional wins have come by form of knockout.
One of the Heavyweight division’s premier collectors of post-fight bonuses, Roy Nelson (22-13) currently finds himself in a 3-6 slump. His last fight saw him knock out Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva and subsequently kick referee John McCarthy, getting him in hot water with the Brazilian commission.
“Big Country” will give up a full seven inches of height to “Drago.”
Roy Nelson is, at best, the same Roy Nelson as always. He’s only looked decent in one of his last six fights: The aforementioned Silva knockout. Volkov has a boatload of height and reach on him and isn’t as bad at using it as the likes of Stefan Struve. And considering Nelson’s ever-diminishing ability to consistently land that killer blow, that’s bad news.
Nelson might actually be better served trying to exploit Volkov’s shaky takedown defense, but he showed in the Derrick Lewis fight that he doesn’t have the gas tank to pull that off. More likely, he fruitlessly chases Volkov around the cage for the full 15 minutes, eating plenty of punishment along the way.
Prediction: Volkov via unanimous decision

135 lbs.: Patrick Williams vs. Tom Duquesnoy

Patrick Williams (8-4) — another Arizona State University wrestling alum — got off to a rough UFC start courtesy of a beautiful Chris Beal flying knee. After dealing with some injuries, “The Animal” rebounded in impressive fashion with a 23-second submission of Alejandro Perez.
This will be his first fight in 22 months and just his second in almost three years.
Considered by many to be the best prospect on the planet, Tom Duquesnoy (14-1) enters UFC with a trail of destruction in his wake. His current 11-fight unbeaten streak has seen him win both the BAMMA Featherweight and Bantamweight titles, stopping eight opponents in the process.
Overall, “Fire Kid” has knocked out seven opponents and submitted another four.
Duquesnoy basically has everything going for him but size. A combat sambo veteran with tons of martial arts experience, he’s an aggressive, effective switch-hitter with vicious knees and elbows. He’s also got a strong wrestling game to back it up.
And he’s only 23.
Williams’ inactivity makes it hard to get a bead on him, but what I saw in his two UFC fights was a quick, athletic fighter who couldn’t quite blend his wrestling with his movement-heavy striking style. This issue will likely produce quite a few clinches, where Duquesnoy’s a veritable blender. “Fire Kid” decks him on the inside for a dramatic finish.
Prediction: Duquesnoy via first-round technical knockout

155 lbs.: Bobby Green vs. Rashid Magomedov

Bobby Green (23-7) — whose Tapology page is a truly fascinating wasteland of canceled or rescheduled fights — won his first four UFC fights to earn himself a place in the rankings. “King” has since lost two straight, dropping a decision to Edson Barboza and suffering a brutal knockout from Dustin Poirier.
This will be his first fight in 10 months and second since Nov. 2014.
Rashid Magomedov (19-2) also started his UFC career with four consecutive wins to establish himself as a prospect to watch. Injuries kept him out of action for nearly a year following his dominant win over Gilbert Burns, after which Beneil Dariush ended his 12-fight win streak in Mexico.
He has knocked out eight opponents, though just one since 2011.
There’s a very, very good chance that this fight sucks. Both of these men are extremely talented strikers, but fight with little urgency even when it’s called for. Though a split decision either way wouldn’t surprise me, I’m leaning toward Magomedov.
Dariush showed that aggression and a strong clinch can nullify Magomedov’s footwork and long-range striking. Green doesn’t have that level of infighting prowess or frantic offense, which will leave him at the mercy of the Dagestani’s more fluid arsenal. Magomedov outworks him at range for a narrow victory.
Prediction: Magomedov by unanimous decision

125 lbs.: Louis Smolka vs. Tim Elliott

Undaunted by his decision loss to Chris Cariaso, Louis Smolka (11-3)rattled off four straight impressive wins to earn himself a spot in the Flyweight Top 10. A stunning upset loss to Brandon Moreno knocked him back down the rankings and a subsequent decision loss to Ray Borg left him sitting at No. 12.
His nine stoppage wins include five by submission.
Tim Elliott’s (13-7-1) entertaining-if-mostly-unsuccessful UFC run gave way to a two-fight reign as the Titan FC champion. A strong performance on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 24 earned him a shot at Demetrious Johnson, whom he pushed to the limit in a losing effort.
At 5’7,” he is two inches shorter than his foe.
Elliott thrives when he can use his size, strength and aggression to force unfavorable scrambles. The issue is that, if opponents can stay composed, they can take advantage of the many openings he leaves in the process. Unfortunately for him, Smolka has the same sort of fluidity and opportunistic submissions that Zach Makovsky and Joseph Benavidez used to fell him.
Smolka is still a great young talent despite his recent losses. He outworks Elliott on the mat for either a late submission or clear decision.
Prediction: Smolka via second-round submission




Patrick Stumberg -

Current UFC "Prelims" Prediction Record for 2017: 42-18

[rsynweap84]

Boy....5 Dimes takin' their sweet ass time with these prop odds...any day now pls!?!

[rsynweap84]

Nelson ...if I had to guess----if gonna come in HEAVY and push him all over the cage....last time around I had to convince people into Glover over Jarred "Alaskan proven" Cannonier...this is almost the same.....loads of top experience and skills VS min experience and skills that aren't as good....Volkov's boxing is sloppy and he thinks he can trade punches w people....Nelson could easily put him to sleep....TJ caught him and almost did...Volkov was lucky to escape with a split dec... Nelson by twice the skills and experience...

Yea I don't really know how Nelson is a +120 dog here...He ate the best D. Lewis could throw, and Tim Johnson had this guy rocked multiple times as Volky kept droppin' his hands when at close range and in the clinch. He looked pretty fuckin' awful for an experienced fighter, especially having to go up against an even more experienced fighter like Nelson. Couple that with the fact this fight happened only 4ish months ago? I'm not expecting any drastic improvement from Volky. God forbid Nelson gets him down and on top, he ain't about to get his fat-ass off of him...I gotta toss a parlay or two on him just in case but only luck can win it for Volky here, this is Nelson's fight to lose.

[PaperTrail07]

100%.....IF it goes grapple and Nelson pulls a TD.....there is no getting up unless the ref breaks it LOL

Yea I don't really know how Nelson is a +120 dog here...He ate the best D. Lewis could throw, and Tim Johnson had this guy rocked multiple times as Volky kept droppin' his hands when at close range and in the clinch. He looked pretty fuckin' awful for an experienced fighter, especially having to go up against an even more experienced fighter like Nelson. Couple that with the fact this fight happened only 4ish months ago? I'm not expecting any drastic improvement from Volky. God forbid Nelson gets him down and on top, he ain't about to get his fat-ass off of him...I gotta toss a parlay or two on him just in case but only luck can win it for Volky here, this is Nelson's fight to lose.

[Hugo de Naranja]

100%.....IF it goes grapple and Nelson pulls a TD.....there is no getting up unless the ref breaks it LOL

That did happen a lot versus Derrick Lewis though. Nelson was successful with his TDs but did NOTHING on top. Do you know who's reffing that fight?

[PaperTrail07]

Nope---And I totally agree....the ref can change the game----

That did happen a lot versus Derrick Lewis though. Nelson was successful with his TDs but did NOTHING on top. Do you know who's reffing that fight?

[PaperTrail07]

It will prob be Nelson +3.5 -160 right?

[MMANick]

Nelson will need to get a TD to win this scrap. It'll either be Nelson scoring a couple TD's and winning via decision or Volkov keeping his distance and landing shots while Nelson gets tired chasing him, which would be a Volkov decision.

Or that's how I see it going.

[JIBBBY]

Boy....5 Dimes takin' their sweet ass time with these prop odds...any day now pls!?!

Saw that.. .. They will probably pop up later today if I had to guess...

[JIBBBY]

Tomorrow night Bellator again... Liking the favorites..

Bellator 177 - Bantamweight 3 rounds - Budapest Sports Arena - Budapest, Hungary

Fri 4/14		3001 Leandro Higo		+175	o2½ -230
5:30PM		3002 Eduardo Dantas		-245	u2½ +170
Bellator 177 - Featherweight 3 rounds - Budapest Sports Arena - Budapest, Hungary
Fri 4/14		3101 Daniel Weichel		-180	o2½ -230
5:00PM		3102 John Teixeira		+140	u2½ +170
Bellator 177 - Featherweight 3 rounds - Budapest Sports Arena - Budapest, Hungary
Fri 4/14		3201 Anthony Taylor		+260	o1½ -135
4:30PM		3202 Adam Borics		-380	u1½ -105
Bellator 177 - Flyweight 3 rounds - Budapest Sports Arena - Budapest, Hungary
Fri 4/14		3301 Helen Harper		+130	o2½ -210
4:00PM		3302 Lena Ovchynnikova		-170	u2½ +160

[ufcmma36]

Most of these small chicks at the higher UFC levels do go the distance.. It becomes a point contest..

Rose has had a bunch of submission finishes on her record (to lesser opponents though).. I think that alone drove down the odds on the O2.5.. Waterson is solid on the ground and I don't see Rose locking in anything or even taking her down.. Rose has proven also to take a beating standing as well.. She's tough and not easily finished..

Chances are this one goes the distance..

Over in my mind is a solid play.. That's why I mentioned it.. Odds are -170 and I never like to bet at those odds but this bet I still might...

I seen on FB live this morning, Rose doing a Q/A. Someone asked which round.. She predicted 1st rd. Then asked which she preferred KO or Sub.? Said she has too many subs would like a KO. Of course she wants the KO.But Im not so sure on that. Seen she is rock climbing, thats a huge grappling advantage!I wouldnt be surprised if there is an early sub.. Hurt her early then quick sub! Rose looks good.

[JIBBBY]

I seen on FB live this morning, Rose doing a Q/A. Someone asked which round.. She predicted 1st rd. Then asked which she preferred KO or Sub.? Said she has too many subs would like a KO. Of course she wants the KO.But Im not so sure on that. Seen she is rock climbing, thats a huge grappling advantage!I wouldnt be surprised if there is an early sub.. Hurt her early then quick sub! Rose looks good.

Karate hottie has fought some tuff opponents in the past few years.. She was only sub'd recently in the 3rd round and that was 3 years ago.. I think her ground game will hold up against Rose for 2.5 rounds.. http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Michelle-Waterson-23091

Oh and I highly doubt Rose gets the knock out either.. Rose has never stopped an opponent by KO so far..http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Rose-Namajunas-69083

Karate Hottie has been training at Jackson/Wink, alot of wrestlers and ground specialists have her trained up at this point on the ground.. If anything I'm more worried about Waterson getting top control if it goes to the ground and pounding on Rose and then getting the sub win herself....

I still lean slightly Rose by volume and points standing to win by decision..