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Injuries have slowed the ascent of Erik Koch. | Photo: D. Mandel/Sherdog.com

Featherweights

Erik Koch (13-1, 2-0 UFC) vs. Ricardo Lamas (12-2, 3-0 UFC)

The Matchup: It has been 16 months since we last saw Koch, long enough for many to forget what made the 24-year-old Roufusport product such an intriguing prospect in the first place. Koch was supposed to challenge Jose Aldo for his title at UFC 149 and then UFC 153, but injuries to both parties put those plans on hold. With more talent emerging at featherweight, Koch is no longer a given as a No. 1 contender with a win. Instead, he should probably be given more fights to build his brand and establish a following.

Coming off a loss to Iuri Alcantara in his final WEC bout, Lamas flew under the radar as he made the transition to the UFC. That is no longer the case, as the Top Notch Fitness representative has authored a three-fight winning streak that includes victories over notable contenders Cub Swanson and Hatsu Hioki. With aggressive standup, solid wrestling and an active submission game, Lamas is comfortable anywhere the fight goes. Against Hioki, Lamas attacked his foe’s lead leg with kicks and had success landing his left hook. When the Japanese fighter shot for takedowns, the Chicagoan answered with guillotine attempts.

Koch has proven to be an explosive and aggressive striker during his career to date. He mixes up his kicks well and lands crisp combinations on the feet, and he also has a knack for finding openings for submissions on the mat. Most importantly, he thwarted the wrestling of Jonathan Brookins in his last outing, successfully defending all but one of his opponent’s 20 takedown attempts. Thus far, only Chad Mendes has been able to neutralize Koch with a top-heavy game.

As a former Div. III All-American wrestler, Lamas is more than competent in that area, and forcing the fight to the floor allows the Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt to threaten with submissions. Controlling distance will be critical for Koch, as Lamas is not afraid to engage in a firefight, where he has been known to land high kicks or flying knees of his own. The southpaw Koch is the more dynamic striker, however, and Lamas will be best served by making this a grinding affair. Lamas must close the range, force tie-ups and wear down Koch. He must be intelligent if he winds up in top position, as Koch has an active guard.

The Pick: Koch is more likely to win via knockout, but the longer the fight goes, the more it favors Lamas. One of the division’s unsung stars, Lamas further establishes himself with a hard-fought decision win.

Last Fights » The Prelims