Ht/Wt: 6’0/170 lbs.
Age: 26
Hometown: Nottingham, England
Fighting out of: Nottingham, England
Record: 20-6 (1 NC)
The breakdown: After using the power of his red rooster Mohawk to notch a split decision over Akihiro Gono, Hardy’s return to the Octagon comes against another talented striker in Rory Markham. A banger par excellence, Markham’s rugged style is something Hardy needs to avoid matching, as he favors a more long-distance approach that emphasizes his strong kicks and lengthy reach. Keeping Markham on the end of his strikes and avoiding an out-and-out brawl will be the two things Hardy needs to notch a win for his hometown crowd.
The X factor: Despite looking like a cyberpunk extra on the set of “Bladerunner,” Hardy’s striking style is overtly refined and technical. However, hearing his countrymen calling for a brawl with an opponent who will be all too willing may knock him off course. Keeping the crowd out of his mind will be the first step to Hardy notching another W under the UFC banner.
Rory Markham Scouting Report
Ht/Wt: 5’11/170 lbs.
Age: 26
Hometown: Chicago
Fighting out of: Bettendorf, Iowa
Record: 16-4
The breakdown: After sending Brodie Farber on a one-way trip to vintage KO town, Markham now gets a main card spot albeit against much stiffer opposition. That opposition comes in the form of Hardy, whose long reach and arsenal of kicks makes him a difficult opponent for anyone, especially a brawler like Markham who prefers close-quarters combat. Successfully navigating the pocket and keeping Hardy within reach will be key for Markham, who could easily score an upset if he can force Hardy out of his comfort zone.
The X factor: Markham has had trouble with being at a reach disadvantage, and it will be a pronounced disadvantage against Hardy. Unless Markham comes out willing to close the pocket and take his licks in doing so, you can forget about him adding another insta-classic KO to his ledger.
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The bottom line: You’re looking at the odds-on favorite for “Fight of the Night” honors. Markham will look to turn this into a brawl while Hardy tries to pick him apart from afar. Look for Hardy to grab an early advantage and hold onto it throughout, as his reach and superior striking versatility will land him a late KO victory. I just hope the subsequent English euphoria doesn’t lead to the advent of the MMA hooligan.