UFC on Fox 3 ‘Diaz vs. Miller’ Preview

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Heavyweights

Pat Barry (7-4, 4-4 UFC) vs. Lavar Johnson (16-5, 1-0 UFC)

The Matchup: In a nod to all the viewers who were unhappy with the decision-heavy fare offered by UFC on Fox 2, the promotion presents a heavyweight battle that is sure to provide plenty of frenetic action -- however long it may last.

Following his victory against Christian Morecraft in January, Barry has promised that one day he will unleash a double-leg takedown on an unsuspecting opponent. It might be worth trying against Johnson, a big puncher who has fallen prey to submissions in four of his five defeats. Barry means well, but, in reality, he is going to want to put on a show against the heavy-handed former Strikeforce talent.

Johnson’s recovery from multiple gunshot wounds in 2009 is amazing enough by itself, but his UFC debut showed just what he can do given the right matchup. The California native unleashed a series of ferocious uppercuts on Joey Beltran in the clinch, handing the “Mexicutioner” the first knockout defeat of his 20-fight career. The right hand of “Big” is a dangerous weapon, as evidenced by his 14 knockout and technical knockout wins among his 16 career victories.

Barry is a world-class kickboxer who can give Johnson a little more diverse look than he saw against Beltran. The leg kicks of “HD” can slow down most anyone’s forward motion, and Barry figures to use them judiciously as Johnson presses forward. Barry will be at an eight-inch reach disadvantage here, but that is nothing new for the Louisiana native. Barry has proven time and time again that he is not afraid to stand in the pocket with larger foes, so why should this matchup be any different? Without the threat of a submission from Johnson, Barry can be as aggressive as he pleases, though he might want to avoid getting pressed against the fence by his 34-year-old opponent.

The Pick: Someone is going out here -- it is just a matter of how soon. Look for Barry to mix it up on the feet and put doubt in Johnson’s mind by starching him with some hard kicks. From there, “HD” puts on the pressure and gets a second-round TKO.

Last Fights » The Prelims