Middleweights
Karlos Vemola (9-2, 2-2 UFC) vs. Francis Carmont (18-7, 2-0 UFC)
Carmont will take on an equally imposing adversary in Vemola, who seems to have found a home in the middleweight division. Originally a heavyweight, the London Shootfighters representative was overpowered by the larger Jon Madsen in his UFC debut. A move to 205 pounds followed, but after a knockout victory over Seth Petruzelli, “The Terminator” struggled to get off his back in a decision loss to Ronny Markes at UFC Live 5. Vemola was able to assert himself against Mike Massenzio in his initial 185-pound appearance, scoring a takedown and taking his opponent’s back for the rear-naked choke finish.
While both men would like to dictate the location of the fight through takedowns and their considerable ground-and-pound, Carmont has the tools to better implement this strategy -- or adjust should it fail.
Vemola has big-time aggression and heavy hands, but he often misses wildly with haymakers that will leave him susceptible to counters and takedowns. Carmont, meanwhile, is a much more accurate striker with a varied attack. “Limitless” mixes punches and kicks well, an important edge against a foe that he will not simply be able to muscle to the mat. Carmont can also do damage in the clinch with knees.
Vemola should be encouraged by parts of Carmont’s victory over Cedenblad, as the Frenchman gave up full mount and nearly submitted to a rear-naked choke in the opening frame. That hold is a favorite of the Czech fighter, with five of his nine victories coming by way of the maneuver.
The Pick: Vemola will need to land first, hurt Carmont and work his top game. That is no guarantee with his less-than-technical striking. Carmont’s more precise and balanced attack allows him to take a decision.
Next Fight » T.J. Dillashaw vs. Vaughan Lee