UFC 113 Breakdowns and Predictions

The UFC 113 main card gives die-hard MMA fans several interesting match-ups, along with the rematch of possibly the most controversial fight of 2009. MachidaShogun 2 looks to be a tactical battle again, and Heavy Hands man Paul Simtex Daley is fighting against UFC veteran Josh Koscheck. You can’t forget Kimbo Slice and Matt Mitrione, a potential heaving hitting, stand-up brawl.

Taking a look the Machida/ Shogun 2 fight, this one is a tacticians dream. It puts the elusive and accurate Light Heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida against the hard hitting and relentless Maricio Shogun Rua. If this fight is anything like the first one, look for Shogun to use his Louisville Slugger legs on every part of Machida’s body, but mainly on his shins and thighs. It makes sense; no legs equals no power to punch, kick or stand (see the recent Aldo/ Faber fight for a 101). But we know Machida is not going to sit there and take it. Not only is Machida fast and accurate with his strikes, he has the endurance to go the distance, having won nearly half of his fights by decision. If I were to choose a winner…after a long deliberation, I’m going with Shogun on this one.

The Koscheck/ Daley fight puts ex-Ultimate Fighter and UFC veteran Josh Koscheck against eye-opening newcomer Paul Daley. Both seem to be equally matched in ground fighting, having colorful belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, however I have a feeling they are? not going to the mat. Koscheck and Daley like to stand, which will allow MMA fans a varied display of American versus Muai Thai Kickboxing, respectively. This fight has potential to be hard hitting and may not go the distance, based on both fighters histories. I have to go with Daley in this one, I believe there’s a reason why he’s moving up so fast, and it will be displayed at 113.

I’ll leave the Kimbo/ Mitrione fight up in the air…all I know is that this one will be a slugfest.

~Ghetto