Strikeforce/M-1 Global 'Fedor vs. Rogers' Preview

Antonio Silva vs. Fabricio Werdum

The Breakdown: Werdum remains the more well-regarded of the two, having spent years as a top heavyweight contender with an unfortunate habit of timing his losses poorly. Meanwhile, Silva, a huge guy with some skill, basically receives way more credit than he should for being a huge guy with some skill.

The difference in size will not be particularly pronounced, as Werdum will only give up some weight to Silva, who has to worry about his foe’s all-universe jiu-jitsu. While Silva’s striking may be considered an advantage, Werdum has made strides with his own muay Thai, and he has effectively navigated his way to wins over supposedly superior strikers before. Unless Silva can keep this fight upright and bully around Werdum, set your timer to tapout because it will not take long for the UFC veteran to expose Silva.

The X-Factor: The deciding factor in this fight will likely be Silva’s takedown defense, which has proven surprisingly weak for a guy who should be able to smother anyone looking to outmuscle him. Werdum’s wrestling can hardly be described as an asset, but he only needs a single takedown to completely outclass Silva. How the wrestling clash plays out will be the variable on which this fight hinges.

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The Bottom Line: Title eliminators are supposed to be competitive, but this fight will show just how short Strikeforce remains on quality heavyweights, as Werdum makes Silva look like a rank amateur. A few early fireworks on the feet will end abruptly, as Werdum snags an easy single-leg and promptly cinches a submission on Silva.