With all of the hype on UFC 148 and Hector Lombard's failed attempt at making a big splash in the UFC, I am left feeling flat about 185 pounds. Anderson Silva is the champ and no one can beat him. I guess part of me was hoping for Chael to put something together or Lombard to instill belief in me that there was a 185 pound man on this planet that could defeat "The Spider." So, what now? – Will from San Francisco
So what are we left with? The answers are Chris Weidman and Tim Boetsch. Who deserves it more? I like Boetsch.
"The Barbarian" is 4-0 since moving to 185. Maybe the current stock on him isn't that high based on a lackluster fight with Lombard, but, let's not forget his incredible comeback against Yushin Okami. Boetsch has put his time in at the UFC and has overcome odds to improbably establish himself as a middleweight threat. Does he beat Anderson Silva? No, probably not, but Silva's takedown defense is questionable and Boetsch strength is undeniable. Can you really say that you wouldn't like to see Boetsch try to ragdoll Anderson like he did David Heath?
Weidman is a sexy pick. Honestly, I think the Serra-Longo trained fighter probably has the best chance of beating Silva, but, he isn't quite there yet. Let Weidman savor his win over Munoz a bit and continue to build his skills. I don't think that if Silva-Weidman happened now it would be a case of too much too soon, but with new contenders emerging, Weidman can mature a bit more before trying to claim the top spot.
If you're feeling as wiped out as you’re coming across in your email, then take a deep breath and relax. Things could always be worse. Think about it: you could be Joe Silva and actually have to make the decision on what's going to happen.
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