Mohamed is a scary prospect that specializes in high-altitude slams and brutal ground-and-pound. “Xandinho” is a straight BJJ exponent, albeit an extremely good one. Neither fighter is known for their cardio so if this goes the distance then it will probably end as a decision for Mohamed.
That said, I know how good “Xandinho” is and he’s more than good enough to score the upset. I’ll pick the UK-based Brazilian for a submission towards the end of the second round.
In another fight that should be higher up, rising UK MMA sensation Paul “Semtex” Daley (6-3-2) takes on another Ian Freeman (Pictures)-trained wrestler, Hassan Muridi (Pictures) (5-2). Muridi is strong and tough but his cardio has really been found wanting. If he shows up in as poor shape as he did against Phil Norman (Pictures) at CR 12 then this will be short and sweet. I think Muridi learns his lesson and avoids the knockout, but Daley still takes the decision.
Mark Bucannon makes his debut versus perennial Cage Rage whipping boy Kuljit Degun (Pictures) (1-6) in the opener. Degun used to have a pretty cool entrance, coming in accompanied by a bunch of traditional Indian drummer/dancer types but he doesn’t do it anymore. Either way, Degun’s been whooped by everyone he’s fought recently and his only win, against and out-of-shape Del Edwards a year and a half ago, was hardly inspiring. I’m going with the new guy.