UFC 132 Preview: The Main Card
Wiman vs. Siver
Jason Probst Jun 29, 2011
Matt
Wiman (top) has proven to be a durable fighter. | Photo: D.
Mandel
Lightweights
Matt Wiman (13-5, 7-3 UFC) vs. Dennis Siver (18-7, 7-4 UFC)
The Matchup: A resurgent Wiman was impressive in his last performance, as he outpointed American Top Team’s Cole Miller at UFC “Fight for the Troops 2” in January. Meanwhile, Siver posted his third consecutive victory in an upset George Sotiropoulos at UFC 127. In this one, Siver’s dynamic standup and excellent kicking match up against Wiman, who will need to get the fight down -- and likely keep it there -- to win.
Siver’s takedown defense and timing of his strikes were splendid against Sotiropoulos, as he picked apart the Aussie and dictated the entire fight. Wiman has to close the distance, as Siver has an excellent chin, as well as solid upper-body strength that serves him well in tie-ups, where he will also explode with knees. Wiman’s pretty durable himself, and while he may be able to score a takedown or two, one has to wonder if he can hold Siver on the mat long enough to counter the blows he will take standing.
The Pick: Siver by unanimous decision.
Jason Probst can be reached at [email protected] or twitter.com/jasonprobst.
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