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UFC on Fox 7 kicks off this Saturday night, which features some compelling fights from top to bottom. Headlining the card is a lightweight championship that has the makings to be Fight-Of-The-Year, where current champ Ben Henderson will challenge former Strikeforce champ Gilbert Melendez. It’s a dynamic lightweight bout and both fighters possess well rounded games. Let’s now take a look at the rest of the card and make some predictions.
Matt Brown vs. Jordan Mein: This welterweight bout should end quickly as both fighters are known for their striking abilities. Mein looked sensational in his UFC debut against Dan Miller, where Mein was able to put on a striking clinic. Brown is always as durable as they come and has a lot of momentum heading into this bout. Even though Brown has looked impressive as of late, Mein is just the more technical striker. He will pick Brown apart and get an early finish; much like his bout with Miller. Final Prediction: Jordan Mein wins via TKO in the first round.
Nate Diaz vs. Josh Thompson: This lightweight bout could steal the show as both fighters are known for putting on some barn-burner fights. Diaz is the superior submission artist in this bout and he will look to rebound off his tough title fight loss to Henderson. Also, Diaz possesses the superior reach advantage, which will serve him well against Thompson. Thompson will be game in the earlier rounds, but will find once Diaz has established his range and starts peppering him to the body. Final Prediction: Nate Diaz wins via submission in round two.
Daniel Cormier vs. Frank Mir: Daniel comes into this fight with the momentum, the superior wrestling and it doesn’t hurt when you train with Cain Velasquez on a daily basis, who is the current heavyweight champion. Sure, Cormier doesn’t have as much experience as Mir, but he has consistently improved with each fight; mainly in the stand up department. Mir is dangerous on the ground, but is vulnerable on the feet, which is clearly evident in his fights with Shane Carwin and Junior Dos Santos. All Cormier has to do is be mindful when on the ground and he should earn his first victory inside the octagon. Final Prediction: Daniel Cormier wins via TKO in the first round.
Ben Henderson vs. Gilbert Melendez: Both of these fighters are the best in the lightweight division. Melendez comes over to the UFC after dominating his competition over the years under the Strikeforce banner. However, Henderson is on a completely different level and is one of the most athletic guys in the division. Melendez has competent striking and great wrestling, but Henderson may just be too big for him. Henderson will dominate the grappling exchanges and will take over the fight in the later rounds. Final Prediction: Ben Henderson wins via unanimous decision.
