The Ultimate Fighter Finale: The Wait is Over
Josh Rafferty vs Alex Karalexis
Apr 6, 2005
Josh Rafferty:
Judo/Wrestling/Meat Truck Inc. • 6’0• 185 lbs. • 6-3
Career Against Noteworthy Opponents: None
History on Ultimate Fighter: 0-1
Lost to Diego Sanchez via strikes in Episode 8
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Alex Karalexis: Wrestling/Jiu-Jitsu/South Shore Sport Fighting • 5’8 • 180 lbs. • 4-0
Career Against Noteworthy Opponents: None
History on Ultimate Fighter: 0-1
Lost to Diego Sanchez by submission in Episode 4
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The Better Striker: Likely Karalexis. The other fighters on the show seemed to feel Alex had developed very good hands. On screen, Rafferty didn’t exhibit the same development in his stand-up game.
The Better Grappler: Tough call. Both fighters have wrestled but Rafferty seemed fearful of going to the ground with Florian and Josh looked lost against Sanchez. Alex was training jiu-jitsu prior to the show and may have the edge if the bout goes to the mat. At the same time, Rafferty has five wins using a legitimate submission on his verifiable fight record.
And The Winner Is: Karalexis. Both fighters are living in the A.D. (After Diego) period of their careers. Both have something to prove but Alex seemed to be hungrier and better prepared to fight at this level. I think he will stop Josh with strikes in the opening round.
Career Against Noteworthy Opponents: None
History on Ultimate Fighter: 0-1
Lost to Diego Sanchez via strikes in Episode 8
--------------------------------
Alex Karalexis: Wrestling/Jiu-Jitsu/South Shore Sport Fighting • 5’8 • 180 lbs. • 4-0
Career Against Noteworthy Opponents: None
History on Ultimate Fighter: 0-1
Lost to Diego Sanchez by submission in Episode 4
--------------------------------
The Better Striker: Likely Karalexis. The other fighters on the show seemed to feel Alex had developed very good hands. On screen, Rafferty didn’t exhibit the same development in his stand-up game.
The Better Grappler: Tough call. Both fighters have wrestled but Rafferty seemed fearful of going to the ground with Florian and Josh looked lost against Sanchez. Alex was training jiu-jitsu prior to the show and may have the edge if the bout goes to the mat. At the same time, Rafferty has five wins using a legitimate submission on his verifiable fight record.
And The Winner Is: Karalexis. Both fighters are living in the A.D. (After Diego) period of their careers. Both have something to prove but Alex seemed to be hungrier and better prepared to fight at this level. I think he will stop Josh with strikes in the opening round.
