Knocked out by Yoshihiro Nakao in his last fight, York most likely will not get that counter punch through, as Thompson’s barrage will find purchase late in the first round for the technical knockout win.
Ryo Kawamura vs. Muhammed "King Mo" Lawal
Lawal (3-0) said he wants to be involved in every Sengoku event possible. Fresh on the heels of his first-round technical knockout of Yukiya Naito in January, the budding star has been placed in the main event of the Japanese promotion’s inaugural 2009 show. While largely unknown in the West, Kawamura, the current light heavyweight King of Pancrase, should prove a solid test for the ever-improving “King Mo.” A competent striker who can string together combinations and work jabs, body punches and counters, Kawamura will likely look to stalk Lawal on the feet.
Lawal’s still-developing stand-up could prove a defensive liability should Kawamura (9-3-2) land a few low kicks and punches. Luckily for Lawal, his power evens the playing field. Kawamura can be knocked out if he’s not careful, and given Lawal’s fast and powerful punches, the KO threat is enhanced. Should Lawal not decapitate Kawamura, however, expect the Japanese fighter to push for the takedown, which “King Mo” will foil with ease; he’ll take the fight down to the mat on his terms.
From there, expect Lawal to blitz Kawamura with punishing punches from above, forcing the King of Pancrase to turn over and surrender his back. This is exactly what Lawal wants. Provided the referee does not jump in to save Kawamura, Lawal will finally get his much-sought-after first submission win, sinking the rear-naked choke midway through the second round.