TUF 9 Finale Preview: The Prelims

Brad Blackburn vs. Edgar Garcia

The Breakdown: This is one of those under-the-radar bouts that should deliver the fistic fireworks, as undefeated prospect Edgar Garcia makes his UFC debut against the underrated and undeterred Brad Blackburn. Both men thrive on versatility, but it is Garcia who will play the role of aggressor. He has a style built on pressing the action and, eventually, overwhelming his opponents with volume. If Blackburn can play matador and wear down Garcia or simply force him off his usual game, he’ll be in prime position to turn his experience into the deciding factor. Otherwise, Garcia will be announcing his presence in the UFC by stealing Blackburn’s mojo.

The X Factor: Being lined up against a name fighter like Blackburn in your UFC debut means someone in the front office has faith in you, but it also means dealing with a mountain of pressure. Just how ready Garcia is to deal with all the stress that comes with cutting it in the UFC will be what defines his hoped-for transition from prospect to contender.

The Bottom Line: A pick ‘em fight turns into a Fight of the Night contender as Garcia’s pressing style forces Blackburn into a back-and-forth throwdown that will eventually favor Garcia and his high-power offense. It won’t be easy, but Garcia turns in an impressive performance and notches a split decision nod over his would-be conqueror. I’d have picked Blackburn if he had a better alliterative nickname than “Bad.”