Liddell-Jackson II Headlines UFC 71 Card

Din Thomas (Pictures) vs. Jeremy Stephens

With the UFC's increasing emphasis on loading up the lightweight division with young talent, Din Thomas (Pictures) stands out as one of the few members of the old guard who has managed to remain relevant in the modern MMA world. However, MMA fans have a short memory and Thomas, 30, is fully aware that winning is the only way he'll keep getting his ticket punched by the UFC.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is 20-year-old Jeremy Stephens, a new recruit to the UFC who is faced with the prospect of taking on a far more experienced fighter in his UFC debut.

Hailing from the MMA factory that is Iowa, Stephens comes in with the prerequisite wrestling background that seems to be the calling card of so many Midwest MMA fighters. But thanks to his training at the Des Moines Mixed Martial Arts Academy, Stephens has developed into more than your standard issue converted wrestler.

Never content to ride out decisions, Stephens (8-1-0) is known for using his surprising striking power, whether standing or on the ground, to take control of his fights. That and a solid knowledge of submissions has gone a long way towards establishing Stephens as one of Iowa's top lightweight prospects, as evidenced by his run of success through the Midwest MMA scene.

Against an opponent like Thomas, local accolades and hype won't do much. What really makes this a tough debut for Stephens is the fact that Thomas' style is tailor made for frustrating overanxious youngsters.

Although Thomas (19-6-0) trains with the American Top Team, he does not conform to the Southern Florida-based academy's mold of Brazilian jiu-jitsu based fighters. Instead, Thomas compliments his excellent takedown defense with a long reach and disciplined boxing style, which allows him to rack up points and force opponents to fight on his terms.

It is that patient, disciplined approach to MMA that has left many a wrestler on the receiving end of Thomas's almost impossibly long jab.

While Stephens will come in looking to take Thomas out of his comfort zone by planting him on his back, the veteran lightweight will no doubt anticipate this approach, which will make his job even easier. Stephens should know that he is no match for Thomas on the feet and that any illusions of trading blows should remain illusions. The problem for Stephens lies in the fact that in committing himself to taking down Thomas, he is merely allowing Thomas to work his game plan.

Expect a frustrating night for the UFC newcomer, as he spends the night on the receiving end of jabs for three rounds. Thomas takes this one via unanimous decision, but not for lack of effort on Stephens' part.