UFC 160 ‘Velasquez vs. Silva 2’ Preview

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Lightweights

Donald Cerrone (19-5, 6-2 UFC) vs. K.J. Noons (11-6, 0-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Twice Cerrone has been on the verge of challenging for the lightweight title in the UFC, and both times he has come up short in high-profile bouts. His last loss was especially painful, as Anthony Pettis became the first person to knock out “Cowboy” with a perfectly placed liver kick at UFC on Fox 6. Cerrone recently hired a sports psychologist, an acknowledgment that his shortcomings are as much mental as they are physical.

Noons, meanwhile, was brought over by the UFC despite having lost four of his last five fights, although a split decision defeat to Ryan Couture at Strikeforce “Marquardt vs. Saffiedeine” was controversial. Noons’ value to the promotion lies in his ability to engage in fan-friendly striking battles, and pairing him with Cerrone, a former muay Thai world champion, could produce fireworks.

Noons’ most memorable victory remains a doctor stoppage triumph over Nick Diaz at EliteXC “Renegade” in 2007, and although his last five fights have gone the distance, “King” has plenty of knockout power, as evidenced by his eight career KO or TKO wins. The Arena representative is at his best when he can get comfortable and establish a rhythm in the pocket. His boxing technique is among the best in the sport, as he uses feints and movement and fires off combinations at odd angles.

Where Noons has struggled is against opponents who can either keep him off balance with versatile striking attacks or grind him down with heavy top games. Even Couture, an average athlete, had his moments landing kicks on the outside against Noons. Cerrone, who has a three-inch reach advantage, is far more proficient than Couture when it comes to kicking. The Jackson’s Mixed Martial Arts product takes pleasure in attacking all levels with his feet, and he is also adept at punctuating punching combinations with whipping low kicks. Factor in Cerrone’s knees to the body and chest, and Noons suddenly has an entire toolbox of techniques for which to prepare.

Cerrone is also the better wrestler and grappler, but the Coloradoan may very well eschew the ground game altogether to engage in a striking battle with a like-minded foe. It is a strategy that can work for the World Extreme Cagefighting veteran as long as he does not allow Noons to establish a rhythm.

The Pick: Cerrone is able to fight tactically, picking his spots and landing kicks from the outside. A couple takedowns late in rounds seal the victory, as “Cowboy” wins via decision.

Last Fights » The Prelims