UFC 216: Ferguson vs Lee (Preview & Predictions)

Lando Vannata looks to make a statement against Bobby Green.

Preliminary Card (FX):

#1 Tom Duquesnoy vs Cody Stamann

Ton Duquesnoy is the definition of the complete MMA fighter—he can strike, grapple and transition smooth as though his game is butter on boiling hot curry.

I’m tempted to go with a stoppage victory for Duqeusnoy over Stamann, but have to refrain from doing that as we have to respect Cody’s resilience and ability to endure punishment. Tom by a shutout decision!

Prediction: Tom Duquesnoy def. Cody Stamann via Decision

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#2 Will Brooks vs Nik Lentz

Will Brooks came into the UFC with a ton of hype however a few bad showings seem to have relegated him to divisional purgatory…for now.

Although the UFC’s resident poet, Nik Lentz, may be great at penning down his thoughts and intentions of bashing rivals’ heads into the canvas, he is likely to fall short against the crafty and deceptive Brooks.

Brooks will work him on the feet, look to avoid the ground, and walk away with the win in this competitive matchup.

Prediction: Will Brooks def. Nik Lentz via Decision

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#3 Bobby Green vs Lando Vannata

Bobby Green could have been UFC Champion had he stayed away from running with shady customers outside the Octagon.

Green’s personal life now seems to have adversely affected his professional life as well, and when up against someone with as much killer instinct as Vannata, it spells doom.

Vannata counters Green on the feet en route to a stoppage victory after a heavy dosage of Ground & Pound.

Prediction: Lando Vannata def. Bobby Green via TKO

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#4 Pearl Gonzalez vs Poliana Botelho

Poliana Botelho is an extremely dangerous fight for Pearl, and come fight night, it’ll show. She’s game and considerably athletic, more so than Gonzalez.

I see Botelho out-striking Gonzalez and then tapping her out on the ground.

Prediction: Poliana Botelho def. Pearl Gonzalez via Submission