Mauricio Rua has not won back-to-back UFC fights since 2009. | Photo: J. Sherwood
Sherdog.com staff and contributors put their reputations on the line with bold predictions for the UFC 139 “Shogun vs. Hendo” main card on Saturday at the HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif. The event airs live on pay-per-view at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT:
Light Heavyweights
Mauricio “Shogun” Rua vs. Dan Henderson
Todd Martin: Henderson has thrived the past few years with his powerful hands and granite chin. Unfortunately for him, Shogun just isn’t a fighter that formula will work very well against. Shogun is one of the most dangerous offensive fighters in the game, and he can take a shot, as well. When Shogun loses, it’s usually because he fades, but that shouldn’t be an issue here. Shogun fought recently and should be in solid shape, while Henderson is now 41. You can never count Hendo out, but I think Shogun batters him with punches, kicks and knees leading to a merciful referee stoppage.
Freddie DeFreitas: A quick look at the tale of the tape, and all signs would point to Shogun as the best choice in this fight. Coming into this bout at the age of 41, Henderson gives up more than 10 years to Shogun. The American also finds himself on the wrong end of both the height and reach advantage, which heavily favors a pure striker like Rua. On the ground, again, it’s advantage Rua, as the Brazilian possesses the superior submission game. Having said all of that, I still live in fear of the Henderson right hand and can’t possibly pick against him: Henderson by KO in the second round.
Brian Knapp: Henderson will always have that howitzer of a right hand in his back pocket. However, at 41, one has to wonder how his body will handle the rigors of a five-round fight. No outcome would surprise me in this one, but I look for Shogun to attack with kicks to Henderson’s body and legs and perhaps score with a trip takedown or two en route to a decision.
Source:http://sherdogblog.craveonline.com/blog/2011-11-19#37316
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