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NGANNOU VS FERREIRA

UFC Live 3 Preview

Jason ProbstMar 02, 2011
Rousimar Palhares (top) is a huge favorite against Dave Branch. | Dave Mandel/Sherdog.com


Middleweights
Dave Branch vs. Rousimar Palhares

The Matchup: After his scrappy, decision loss debut to Dan Henderson at UFC 88 in Atlanta, Palhares looked like a future star in the 185-pound division. The Brazilian has terrific submissions, is built like a brick wall and has decent takedowns and standup, as well. Branch, a Renzo Gracie disciple, has rebounded nicely from his highlight-reel slam defeat to Gerald Harris at UFC 116 in July.

Both are fairly athletic and have proven they are talented grapplers. Each needs a win to stay relevant in the division.

Palhares, while feared on the mat, is much more than a jiu-jitsu artist. One does not spend three rounds shooting takedowns on Henderson, getting most of them stuffed, without a serious pair of cajones. Branch will not be able to overwhelm him on the ground and will be at a deficit standing. Palhares is also excellent at hitting submissions and sweeps in scrambles and transitions, using his powerful frame to cause problems, whether he is twisting a limb or tossing guys sideways.

The Pick: Palhares by second-round submission.

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