UFC 128 Preview: The Prelims

Ricardo Almeida (right) is a world-class jiu-jitsu stylist. | D. Mandel/Sherdog.com

The Matchup: One of the last of the old-school guys still competing at the elite level, Almeida’s debut in the organization was at UFC 31. In his latest run, he has gone 4-2, beating Rob Yundt, Matt Horwich, Kendall Grove and T.J. Grant before being choked out by Matt Hughes. A former middleweight, Almeida has settled down to 170 comfortably, it seems, where his outstanding jiu-jitsu essentially carries the rest of a modest skill set.

Pyle is one of those hard-nosed veterans who has fought a lot of top names with hit-or-miss results. Much of it is due to short-notice bouts and his not having a full camp to prepare. When he is at 100 percent, the form Pyle showed against unbeaten John Hathaway at UFC 120 was emblematic of the potential he displayed in smaller shows, where he has beaten Shonie Carter, Gustavo Machado and Dan Hornbuckle. Pyle has also bested fringe talents in the UFC, like Chris Wilson and Jessie Lennox.

At his best, Pyle is a well-schooled veteran with a good gas tank and the wrestling chops to give guys problems. Almeida is comfortable letting people go into his guard, but in MMA, that can often be a devil’s bargain. It is much easier to resist and defend against submissions, especially when you can punch the guy in the face.

The Pick: Look for Pyle to test the standup waters initially to soften up Almeida, so he can work unfettered on the ground. He will have to be careful because “Big Dog” is a world-class jiu-jitsu stylist. Even so, Pyle’s intensity and tenacity should carry him through to a late stoppage win or decision.

Next Fight: Kurt Pellegrino vs. Gleison Tibau