UFC Fight Night 39 Preview
Dollaway vs. Ferreira
Cezar Ferreira will enter the cage on a three-fight winning
streak. | Photo: Gleidson Venga/Sherdog.com
Middleweights
C.B. Dollaway (13-5, 7-5 UFC) vs. Cezar Ferreira (7-2, 3-0 UFC)The Matchup: The winner of “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” Season 1, Ferreira is an imposing middleweight with good size and strength. The Vitor Belfort protégé has captured victories over Sergio Moraes, Thiago Santos and Daniel Sarafian during his brief UFC tenure. While “Mutante” is known for his aggression and finishing instinct, he relied on his takedowns and top game to capture a split verdict over Sarafian in his most recent appearance at UFC Fight Night 32.
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Despite his success with takedowns in his last fight, it is difficult to imagine Ferreira outwrestling Dollaway, who was an NCAA All-American at Arizona State University. Dollaway has been hittable throughout his career, and while he does a decent job of blending striking with takedowns, he often leaves his hands low in exchanges. Ferreira should take advantage of this flaw by countering. The Brazilian does not have much of a jab, but he has a good straight left and left hook. In addition, he is capable of landing kicks to the body and head. If Dollaway is forced to absorb a few kicks to the body in succession, it will change the course of the fight.
While Dollaway should have the advantage in clinches and takedowns, he also tends to leave his neck and limbs exposed for submissions. Ferreira will need to be aware of these openings when Dollaway attempts to shoot; he could also capitalize if “The Doberman” becomes careless with his offense from top position.
The Pick: Dollaway is more experienced against UFC competition. However, he is often inconsistent, and it feels like the best for Ferreira has yet to come. “Mutante” hurts the Arizonan on the feet and then pounces to win via TKO or submission in round two or three.
Next Fight » Norman Parke vs. Leonardo Santos
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