Matt Riddle (left): Dave Mandel | Sherdog.com
Matt Riddle vs. Sean Pierson
The wrestling credentials make this a pick-‘em, as two young 170-pounders scrap for a bone in the divisional pecking order. Pierson, like Riddle, is aggressive and brings the fight, using effective ground-and-pound and top control to take guys out. Riddle is a rare case of a guy who’s fought his entire career in the UFC. After his stint on “TUF 7,” he seems to be finally showing the huge potential he evidenced during the show.
This is a coin-flip fight, as Pierson matches up evenly with Riddle. Though it’s his debut, I have an inkling that Pierson might be a fighter to watch and will have just enough to take Riddle the distance and earn a decision.