UFC 216: Ferguson vs Lee (Preview & Predictions)

Heavyweights throw down on the UFC Fight Pass prelims.

Preliminary Card (UFC Fight Pass):

#1 Walt Harris vs Mark Godbeer

Walt Harris and Mark Godbeer are stereotypical Heavyweight sluggers, who fight with reckless abandon showing little to no care about their defense.

Although either fighter can spark the other out with a glancing blow, I see Harris being the more technical brawler and catching Godbeer while the latter’s coming into range.

Prediction: Walt Harris def. Mark Godbeer via KO

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#2 John Moraga vs Magomed Bibulatov

Magomed Bibulatov has a great record on the surface, but only recently has he started facing legitimate MMA competition.

Moraga is as legit as a Mike Tyson uppercut, and this fight would most definitely be Bibulatov’s biggest test to date. I see Moraga schooling Magomed on the feet as well as the mat, picking up a clear decision win.

Prediction: John Moraga def. Magomed Bibulatov via Decision

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#3 Thales Leites vs Brad Tavares

Thales Leites is an excellent BJJ fighter and has vastly improved his striking game as well, whereas Tavares still hasn’t filled up the defensive holes in his standup.

I see this basically as a pick ‘em fight, with Leites barely outpointing Tavares on the feet, and winning every grappling exchange decisively.

Prediction: Thales Leites def. Brad Tavares via Decision

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#4 Matt Schnell vs Marco Beltran

Matt Schnell has decent striking and a grappling style which is a tad rough around the edges.

On the other hand, Beltran is much of the same, but has a rather stinging jab as an added advantage in his arsenal. Regardless, I see Schnell entering the clinch repeatedly and grinding out a win across the scorecards.

Prediction: Matt Schnell def. Marco Beltran via Decision

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