UFC 161 ‘Evans vs. Henderson’ Preview
Jimmo vs. Pokrajac
Ryan
Jimmo has won 17 of his last 18 fights. | Photo: D.
Mandel/Sherdog.com
Light Heavyweights
Ryan Jimmo (17-2, 1-1 UFC) vs. Igor Pokrajac (25-9, 4-4 UFC)
The Matchup: After scoring a spectacular seven-second knockout of Anthony Perosh in his UFC debut, Jimmo looked to be on the verge of turning the trick twice when he rocked James Te Huna with a head kick inside the opening minute of their UFC on Fuel TV 7 encounter. Follow-up punches and elbows on the ground did not finish the Te Huna, however, and Jimmo was taken down and pounded for the final two rounds to lose to lose a decision.
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Pokrajac’s best asset is his heart, as he will move forward in the face of heavy fire. Jimmo is the more technical striker, and his ability to land a variety of kicks should help him to control distance. Pokrajac has heavy hands but should look to take his opponent to the ground, as Jimmo is solid when he is imposing his will from top position but struggles when forced to defend from his back. Pokrajac is not a fluid athlete, which makes dragging the fight to the ground a more difficult task, especially when one considers the power Jimmo has flashed in his first two UFC appearances.
Jimmo is solid in the clinch, and he should take note of the success Beltran experienced in attacking Pokrajac against the fence in December. Despite those struggles, the Croatian will not hesitate to engage in a close-quarters battle, and Jimmo must be wary of his foe’s knees in tie-ups.
The Pick: Look for Pokrajac to press the action and swing for the fences, with Jimmo attempting to control distance with a varied arsenal. Jimmo avoids spending too much time on his back and wins a decision.
Next Fight » Alexis Davis vs. Rosi Sextion
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