[Lincoln73]

I can't figure out why Fitch would be an underdog against Thiago Alves. Besides a loss to GSP, Fitch hasn't lost since 2002! Plus, he already beat Alves by TKO in 2006. I wonder if the line isn't influenced by the public's dislike for him grinding out wrestling wins in non fan friendly fights. Thoughts?

[terpkeg]

Take these into consideration: 1) Fitch has had trouble putting people away. Maybe people think longer fight goes there is a chance he gets rocked like end of Pierce fight. 2) He is usually larger than other WW, not Alves. 3) Despite fact that GSP put Alves on back all day, Koscheck and Matt Hughes could not.

That said, at first glance I would make Fitch the favorite.

[illmatick]

Mike Pierce would have won a 5 round fight against Fitch that night, GSP may have been able to take Alves down at will but he had hell trying to keep him there, no way Alves is going to let Fitch lay on him for 3 rounds, Fitch is a thing of the past, Standup always was and always will be garbage, reminds me of a refined Marcus Davis

[brooks85]

I remember when alves said GSP wouldnt be able to take him down, did not turn out too good for him. Just like how fitch repeatedly took him down. Mike pierce has a huge advantage over alves when it comes to matching up against fitch, years of wrestling; which is the only reason he had the opportunity to stand and strike.

The rematch will go the same way, without the upkick, and if thiago wins a round, it will be the third.

[36mafia]

I can't figure out why Fitch would be an underdog against Thiago Alves. Besides a loss to GSP, Fitch hasn't lost since 2002! Plus, he already beat Alves by TKO in 2006. I wonder if the line isn't influenced by the public's dislike for him grinding out wrestling wins in non fan friendly fights. Thoughts?

might be because he only has decision wins and it seems like thats the only option he has. fitch isnt a closer and i think he's as good as he's going to get. where as thiago has dangerous ko ability and every round starts out standing.

[knownone]

Alves is the deserving favorite, Besides his fight with GSP he's dominated everyone he's fought... You gotta remember Fitch beat Alves when Alves was 22 years old now 4 years later Alves is hitting his prime and fitch seems to be the same one deminsional fighter he was 4 years ago.

[Vrakas]

its going to be a close fight

[RobbReport]

i see Alves getting in a few accurate enough shots to hurt Fitch. yeah he is a grinder, but that won't save him every fight.

[shady610]

i dont think fitch shoule be a dog to anybody not named gsp