UFC 133 Preview: The Prelims
Hendricks vs. Pierce
Johny Hendricks (pictured) may have a slight wrestling edge over
Mike Pierce. | Photo: Dave Mandel
Welterweights
Johny Hendricks (10-1, 5-1 UFC) vs. Mike Pierce (12-3, 4-1 UFC)
The Matchup: When two wrestling-based fighters collide, their core skills can neutralize one another, resulting in a standup brawl, i.e. Mark Munoz-Aaron Simpson at UFC 123. It can also go the other way, devolving into a boring grapple-fest in which the two cancel one another out and the guy who scores more takedowns gets the decision. A lot depends on standup ability and the willingness to risk themselves to inflict damage.
On that score, Hendricks should be good to go. A two-time NCAA wrestling champion at Oklahoma State University, he has become increasingly comfortable on the feet. In addition, Pierce has become more exciting in recent bouts, including finishes in his last two. He may be a bit more developed now, but Hendricks could have the better upside.
The Pick: Look for some frenetic jockeying to dictate top position on the ground by both of these welterweights. It seems doubtful either man can dominate in a three-round grappling match, but Hendricks should have the edge there and enough of one to take a close decision.
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