Norifumi “Kid” Yamamoto was a superstar in his native Japan. | Photo: Taro Irei
Bantamweights
Norifumi Yamamoto (18-4, 0-1 UFC) vs. Darren Uyenoyama (6-3, 0-0 UFC)
Falling to tough opposition such as Johnson, Warren and 2009 Sengoku Raiden Championship featherweight grand prix winner Masanori Kanehara is understandable, but a loss against UFC newcomer Uyenoyama would be potentially damaging. As a star in Japan, Yamamoto blended high-quality wrestling with dangerous hands nicely, often finishing fights inside of a round. Johnson’s speed confounded the former K-1 standout at UFC 126, but Yamamoto will not see anything of that caliber very often.
Uyenoyama, who was forced out Dream’s bantamweight grand prix in May with a hand injury, is probably best known for his 2008 battle against Hideo Tokoro at Dream 4, where he lost a spirited unanimous decision. Most recently, he defeated then-Shooto 132-pound champion Shuichiro Katsumura in September 2010.
In his heyday, Yamamoto was known for the quick finish. He will be looking to connect with something significant early against Uyenoyama, so expect the Krazy Bee representative to come out with guns blazing. Uyenoyama will not have much to offer Kid on the feet, so look for him to try to take down his opponent and hunt for a rear-naked choke or other submissions.
The Pick: Yamamoto could be fighting for a spot on the UFC’s upcoming Feb. 26 card in Japan, so he will have plenty of motivation. Because Kid has already dealt with the whirlwind that is Johnson, Uyenoyama will seem slow by comparison. In proving that the downside of his career has not arrived just yet, Yamamoto unleashes the type of assault that built his reputation and finishes Uyenoyama with a first-round knockout or technical knockout.
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