UFC 128 Preview: The Prelims

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Lightweights
Kurt Pellegrino vs. Gleison Tibau

The Matchup: Ground stylists comprise this matchup, with Pellegrino and Tibau both at a place where a definitive win here would move them up a couple notches in the divisional hierarchy.

Neither of them has an especially threatening standup game and, as such, usually look to take foes to the mat. However, since both excel at canceling out offensive grappling attempts, expect a lot of time spent in guard and half guard, with limited striking, as both are effective at denying opponents opportunities to posture and rain down blows.

Tibau may be physically stronger, but Pellegrino is a tad better technically, given his experience on the submission wrestling circuit. Pellegrino might have a bit more stamina, too, something that can factor significantly into in a grappling-heavy match. Both are likely to negate one another, so it will come down to a few meaningful strikes and flashes of momentum.

The Pick: Pellegrino should be able to control positions and strike enough in good spots to secure a decision in a fairly uneventful match.

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