UFC Fight Night 34 Preview

Shunichi Shimizu has submitted four opponents during his five-fight winning streak. | Photo: Taro Irei/Sherdog.com

Bantamweights

Kyung Ho Kang (11-7-1, 0-1 UFC) vs. Shunichi Shimizu (28-8-10, 0-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Kang has been competitive in both of his UFC appearances, but the fates have not been kind to “Mr. Perfect,” as he has been on the short end of decision losses to Alex Caceres and Chico Camus. His split decision loss to Caceres was eventually changed to a no-contest when “Bruce Leroy” tested positive for marijuana metabolites after the bout, but many -- including 10 of 11 media scorers tracked by MMADecisions.com -- believed Kang deserved to win the bout outright. The South Korean’s biggest problem thus far has been a lack of offense. He does a good job applying pressure and taking down his opponents but does little from top position. If an opponent can answer with one memorable flurry of offense at any point in a round, it can sometimes sway the opinion of the cageside judges.

Shimizu, a longtime standout for the ZST promotion and a finalist in Sengoku’s never-completed bantamweight tournament, might have some trouble dealing with Kang’s style. Shimizu lacks the standup arsenal to keep his foe at bay, and his affinity for flying submissions often leaves him in bad spots against top control fighters. With that said, the Uruno Dojo representative is active from his back and is capable of either submitting or sweeping from that position.

If and when Shimizu gets top position, he is relentless in chaining together submission attempts. Like Kang, his ground-and-pound is not of the fight-ending or altering variety.

The Pick: Shimizu surrenders position a little too easily to feel confident about his chances. This time, Kang’s takedowns and top control earn him a three-round verdict.

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