Josh Thomson file photo: Dave Mandel/Sherdog.com
This was originally supposed to be the fight that introduced Lyle Beerbohm to casual fans, but after he had to bow out due to injury, the hot rumor was that Gesias “JZ” Cavalcante would make his Strikeforce debut against Thomson. Instead, Healy gets a call-up from the Challengers series to test his mettle against the top contender in Strikeforce’s lightweight class.
While he’s hardly out of his depth against Thomson, Healy is essentially facing a better version of himself. A quality, well-rounded fighter, Healy lacks Thomson’s athleticism, speed and, perhaps most importantly, his wrestling ability. Beating Thomson requires the ability to force a fight on him he doesn’t want, and Healy doesn’t have any one skill he can impose.
That leaves a scenario where Healy ends up losing exchanges on the feet and getting stifled on the mat. The only way Healy is going to crack this Rubik’s cube of pain is by closing the pocket on “The Punk” and turning this bout into a grinder that renders Thomson’s athleticism all but useless. Getting inside on him will be challenging, however, as Thomson has solid footwork and the diversity of strikes to keep Healy guessing.
This is going to be one of those fights where the difference between a good fighter and a serious contender is plain for all to see. A blowout would be surprising. Healy has enough game to keep the rounds close and maybe even steal one, but he stands little chance of scoring a stoppage or having the judges smile on him. Bank on Thomson soundly outpointing him on the feet and mixing in some ground-and-pound for a well-appointed decision win.