UFC on Fuel TV 4 ‘Munoz vs. Weidman’ Preview
Dillashaw vs. Lee
Bantamweights
T.J. Dillashaw (5-1, 1-1 UFC) vs. Vaughan Lee (12-7-1, 1-1 UFC)
The Matchup: Dillashaw played the role of dominant Team Alpha Male wrestler perfectly at UFC on Fuel 2 in February, earning a lopsided unanimous decision over Walel Watson that included two 30-25 scorecards. “The Ultimate Fighter 14” finalist was relentless in landing 154 total strikes over the course of the three-round affair, including a whopping 85-to-11 advantage in significant strikes. It was a nice return to form for Dillashaw after his knockout loss to John Dodson at the “The Ultimate Fighter 14” Finale.
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Dillashaw sets up his takedowns with a solid right hand, but he is not afraid to get creative, as he showed in landing a Superman punch in the first round against Watson. The 26-year-old has a good gas tank, sets a rapid pace and is capable of overwhelming Lee if the Birmingham, England, native comes out of the gates slowly. Dillashaw persistently pursues single- and double-leg takedowns, and once he drives his opposition to the mat, he makes diligent use of ground-and-pound while constantly looking to advance position. Once he senses an opening, Dillashaw is adept at moving to his opponent’s back and attacking from there as he hunts for a rear-naked choke finish.
Lee can absorb some punishment, and he will occasionally take risks on the feet in the form of flying knee attacks. On the mat, he deftly transitions from one submission to another, but that could be limited if he is taking a beating from Dillashaw. It is also not encouraging that Lee allowed Chris Cariaso, who is now fighting at flyweight, to achieve full mount twice in their UFC 138 meeting.
The Pick: Dillashaw is not going to allow Lee to get off, as he will be in the Englishman’s face from the opening bell. Unless Lee can pull off a submission from his back, Dillashaw takes this by first-round TKO.
Next Fight » Rafael dos Anjos vs. Anthony Njokuani
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