Full Predictions of UFC 102

LETSSS GET READY TO RUMBBBBBBBBLLLLLLEEEE!!!
Alright fight fans here are my predictions for UFC 102. This will be the brief synopsis version, not the longer analysis. I just want to get this on paper to solidfy my stellar reputation as a fight analyst.


1. Randy Couture vs Antonio Rodrigo "Minotauro" Nogueira:
Nog by submission. This could come late or early. For my entire rationale go here





2. Keith Jardine vs Thiago Alves:
Alves by KTFO. Jardine's biggest strength is how incredibly awkward he is. Jittery, jerky. His best success has been against counter punchers who have trouble timeing him. The secret with him is really just throw your punches and kick everything else to the curb. Do it smart, but lead. Let him worry about counter timing you. Thiago is just the kind of fighter to pull this off.

3. Chris Leben vs Jake Rosholt:
Honestly prior to a week ago I would have called this one a complete toss up. But Leben has recently taken his training to Hawaii where he gets a lot of upright coaching from Burton Richardson who is a quality JKD man, who will no doubt be helping Chris sharpen up his striking and ground work. On top of this, Chris is spending his last week at Team Quest in Portland OR where UFC 102 is happening. That puts him in such prestigious company as Matt Lindland, and Dan Henderson (I even believe Burton has said Randy Couture has been there training too). This means Leben has a whole new level of striking sophistication, and new strateigies, plus some excellent inside wrestling at his disposal. Color me converted. Leben has experience, a chin and excellent cornering. My pick?
Leben by KO, probably second round.

4. Nate Marquardt (that isn't a typo) vs Demian Maia:
Is there better Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in the UFC than that brought by Demian Maia? Highly doubtful (though BJ Penn may be as good). His UFC wins, eleven straight, are all by submission. I think this may be the case of one specialty being so good, that it eclipses Nate's well rounded arsenal. Nate has said he isn't scared of Demian's ground game. If so he is braver than he should be.


5. Brandon Vera Vs. Krzysztof Soszynski:
Brandon Vera by knockout. His striking is superior and he is no slouch on the ground. Soszynski is a game guy, comes in in condition, but he is taking this fight short notice, so even that might be a problem. Vera's taken his training to the next level and I expect him to come out looking hungry and looking to win in dramatic fashion.

6. Ed Herman vs Aaron Simpson:
Herman for the win. Basing this completely on the fact he seems to have more experience and an okay record (in 23 outings he has won about 74% of the time). While the other guy has only had five fights. On paper anyway, this looks like experience ought to win.

7. Gabriel Gonzaga Vs. Chris Tuchscherer:
I like Gonzaga for this. He is a big guy, quick, and hits hard. Chris Tuchscherer simply doesn't appear to have the striking sophistication to hang with a craft guy like Gonzaga.
So...Gonzaga by KO.

8. Justin McCully Vs. Mike Russow:
Honestly, I have no idea? One of them by something in a round.

9. Tim Hague Vs. Todd Duffee:
You know what? More of same. One of them by something, in one of the rounds.

10. Nick Catone Vs. Mark Munoz:
Munoz based simply on his great wrestling. Former number three ranked collegiate wrestler, and possesses decent upright skills.
Mark Munoz by ground and pound.

Well whatever the case, we should have a night of good fights.
See you on the mat!
(All photos by the good folks at www.sherdog.com)