Strikeforce ‘Overeem vs. Werdum’ Preview

K.J. Noons has dynamite in each hand. | Photo: Dave Mandel

The Matchup: This could and should be a strikers’ delight. Certainly, Noons is no stranger to that kind of fight and has the tools and verve to make one happen against any opponent willing to stand with him. Masdival’s experience and savvy helped carry him to a close but deserved decision win over the previously unbeaten Billy Evangelista in his last outing. With a pair of talented 155-pounders colliding here, a breakout performance could definitely put one of them on the fast track to a shot against Strikeforce lightweight champion Gilbert Melendez.

Noons’ standup is about as scientific as you get in MMA, which often resembles barefooted backyard slugging. He uses feints, bends at the waist and makes odd angles work for him, so much so that he even kept Nick Diaz guessing for five rounds in their rematch. Masdival’s better on the ground and more willing to brawl, but he is a talented standup guy himself. He probably will have to use kicks and nail a takedown or two, especially early, to keep Noons guessing.

If Noons is allowed to get into a striking groove, he is especially hard to get out of that rhythm, much like his teammate, UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz, who uses a lot of the same combos and moves Noons does.

The Pick: The guess here is that Masdival is somewhat effective with kicks and a bit stronger in the tie-ups and on the ground. He takes a razor-this close decision.

Next Fight: Daniel Cormier vs. Jeff Monson