UFC 129 Preview: The Prelims

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Welterweights
Jake Ellenberger vs. Sean Pierson

The Matchup: Pierson did well in winning his UFC debut in December, as he earned a decision decision over Matt Riddle.

Pierson’s fighting on his home turf, which, for a perennial underdog like him, could propel him to new heights. Ellenberger is one of the best welterweights currently in the UFC that has never fought in a title bout; his hard-nosed wrestling and aggression are imposing tools.

Ellenberger has the better standup and probably the better conditioning, as Pierson looked a tad tired down the stretch in his fight with Riddle. Do not be thrown by Ellenberger’s tightrope-style performance against Carlos Eduardo Rocha on Feb. 5, when the submission-savvy Brazilian gave him fits. This is not that type of match, and Ellenberger still showed lots of smarts in nailing late-round takedowns to seal that split decision.

The Pick: Ellenberger should be too much for Pierson and will win via third-round knockout.

Continue Reading » Next Fight: Pablo Garza vs. Yves Jabouin