WEC 48 Preview: The Prelims

Chad Mendes vs. Anthony Morrison

The Breakdown: More often than not, pitting a guy nicknamed “Cheesesteak” against a former collegiate wrestling powerhouse is a pretty one-sided proposition. The reality isn’t much different as Morrison is basically being used as fodder for featherweight mega-prospect Mendes.

No knock on Morrison, who is a quality gatekeeper, but he has no way of stopping Mendes’ takedowns or presenting a real threat from the guard. Those are the only two ways to beat Mendes, and Morrison has never been much of a wrestler or guard player. Cut from the old-school mold of brawler and part-time ground-and-pounder, Morrison is already a limited offensive fighter and Mendes has shown no inclination to deviating from his wrestling base.

Although Mendes is still figuring out how to translate his wrestling into offense, he can still plant most anyone on their back. That’s about all he needs to snuff out Morrison. Like with most any top-shelf prospect, there’s always the chance of Mendes hitting a wall in his development or reading a few too many of his own press clippings. Even taking that into account, though, it’s hard to imagine Mendes making it through the wringer that is a Team Alpha Male training camp and falling flat on his face against Morrison.

The Bottom Line: If nothing else, Morrison will have some serious frequent flyer miles after getting tossed around by Mendes. The free ride will end with Mendes breaking down Morrison’s guard, taking a dominant position and getting the win.