UFC Fight Night 32 Preview

Rafael Cavalcante has one win since capturing Strikeforce gold in August 2010. | Photo: G. Venga/Sherdog.com

Light Heavyweights

Rafael Cavalcante (11-4, 0-1 UFC) vs. Igor Pokrajac (25-10, 4-5 UFC)

The Matchup: Cavalacante’s faulty gas tank took center stage at UFC on Fuel TV 10, where he quickly faded after a furious initial salvo against Thiago Silva and lost via TKO in the opening frame. For an all-too brief period, “Feijao” was a sight to behold, landing combinations, body shots and even a spinning back kick against his Brazilian rival. When the finish did not arrive, Cavalacante’s pace slowed significantly and Silva capitalized with an uppercut and follow-up strikes to get the win. The former Strikeforce champion is a dangerous finisher with a well-rounded skill set, but it will be hard for him to make progress in the light heavyweight division until his cardio issues are resolved.

Pokrajac enters the bout winless in his last three outings, having been neutralized in the clinch in recent bouts against Joey Beltran and Ryan Jimmo. His slump could be worse were it not for some questionable judging that gave him a unanimous verdict over Fabio Maldonado in May 2012; he was out-landed by 62 significant strikes in a UFC on Fuel TV 3 victory over the former pro boxer.

Pokrajac’s propensity for slugfests in the clinch could be a recipe for disaster. Calvacante prefers to press the action, and his knees in close quarters are especially damaging. Pokrajac will move forward regardless of the risk, however. This will lead to the Croat eating punches, knees and kicks from yet another opponent who holds the edge in speed and athleticism. Additionally, Cavalcante has stout takedown defense, meaning Pokrajac could waste energy looking to get the fight to the ground. Even if he does get the Brazilian down, Pokrajac is not adept at maintaining position.

Pokrajac’s best chance is to hope he survives his opponent’s barrage and then Cavalcante gasses, allowing him a chance to land some heavy shots.

The Pick: The heart and will are there for Pokrajac, but the skill is not. Cavalcante has enough stamina to bring this to a close via KO or TKO late in round one.

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