UFC 133 Preview: The Prelims

Ivan Menjivar (facing) has surprising power for his size. | Photo: Stephen Martinez

The Matchup: Once one of the top lighter weight fighters in the world, Menjivar scored a resounding technical knockout of Charlie Valencia in April. With a crushing elbow delivered in the clinch, it was the kind of instant-carnage highlight that turns heads. Pace, an athletically gifted prospect, is coming off a successful Octagon debut in submitting Will Campuzano at “The Ultimate Fighter 12” Finale in December; he dropped a decision at WEC 51 to Demetrious Johnson, now the No. 1 contender at 135 pounds.

Pace has youth, speed and the upside of a young fighter looking to pull off the most significant win of his career. Menjivar has the nasty savvy of a proven veteran, and he has probably forgotten more MMA than a lot of guys currently fighting know. This one may come down to Menjivar’s ability to physically dominate Pace and neutralize his speed and transitions between standing and grappling.

One has to think Menjivar is still a little too tough and wily to lose to a gifted but inexperienced foe with a mere seven fights under his belt. If not, we have a definite young talent to watch in the featherweight division.

The Pick: Menjivar by decision.

Next Fight: Johny Hendricks vs. Mike Pierce