UFC Fight Night 32 Preview
Ferreira vs. Sarafian
Seven of Daniel Sarafian’s eight wins have come by submission. |
Photo: G. Venga/Sherdog.com
Middleweights
Cezar Ferreira (6-2, 2-0 UFC) vs. Daniel Sarafian (8-3, 1-1 UFC)The Matchup: It took some time, but Ferreira and Sarafian -- who were originally expected to meet in “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” Season 1 final -- will finally face one another in their home country.
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Sarafian, meanwhile, was unable to compete in “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 1” final due to injury. He lost a hard-fought split decision to C.B. Dollaway in his promotional debut but put forth a good showing in the process. The Sao Paulo native dropped Dollaway with power punches in the opening round and was later able to sweep and transition to threaten for a choke on the mat against the former NCAA All-American wrestler. However, Sarafian faded down the stretch, and Dollaway was able to take control with a pair of third-round takedowns. The Brazilian received a less daunting foe in his sophomore effort, and he capitalized by submitting Octagon newcomer Eddie Mendez with an arm-triangle choke inside of a round at UFC 163. Sarafian has decent power in his hands and is also capable of attacking with various kicks, but the Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt would be better served taking his opponent to the floor. Sarafian is adept at working to advance position to secure submissions from the top; on his back, he is capable of sweeping and reversing.
The 6-foot-1 Ferreira has a five-and-half-inch reach advantage and will be the more powerful fighter overall. His aggression can be used against him if Sarafian is able to land a counter, but prolonged exchanges favor “Mutante.”
The Pick: Ferreira has a good finishing instinct when he sees his opponent is hurt. He will use his superior size and strength to dictate the location of the fight, winning via TKO or submission in round two.
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