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FIGHT ODDS

World Series of Fighting 3 Preview

Tristen CritchfieldJun 12, 2013
Lyle Beerbohm has rebounded from back-to-back losses in Strikeforce. | Photo: D. Mandel/Sherdog.com


Lightweights


Lyle Beerbohm (21-2, 0-0 WSOF) vs. Jacob Volkmann (15-4, 0-0 WSOF)

The Matchup: Despite a 6-4 record in the Octagon, Volkmann was released by the promotion after a loss to Bobby Green at UFC 156. A three-time NCAA All-American wrestler at the University of Minnesota, Volkmann was unable to keep Green on his back for any significant period of time during his final outing with the promotion. Still, Volkmann has been a tough out since dropping from welterweight to lightweight after losing his first two bouts with the UFC.

Beerbohm, meanwhile, is currently on a six-fight winning streak, including a unanimous verdict over UFC veteran Marcus Aurelio at ShoFight 20 nearly a year ago. For the most part, “Fancy Pants” has not been tested since exiting Strikeforce on the heels of back-to-back losses to Pat Healy and Shinya Aoki in 2011.

Volkmann’s standup has not progressed significantly over the years, and as a result, the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy standout does not waste time before shooting for takedowns. Volkmann thrives on top control and landing moderate ground-and-pound while hunting for chokes. The 32-year-old will transition to his opponent’s back in search of the rear-naked choke whenever the opportunity presents itself.

This figures to be something of a back-and-forth battle on the mat, with Beerbohm setting a rapid pace and pressuring Volkmann in clinches against the fence. Although his skills are not especially refined, Beerbohm is a more willing striker than his foe, and he should use punching combinations to set up takedowns. While Volkmann desires top control, he is not always able to maintain that position, especially against someone who initiates as many scrambles as Beerbohm. However, Beerbohm’s constant activity also leaves him vulnerable to Volkmann taking his back and securing a choke.

In his loss to Healy, another former welterweight, Beerbohm started quickly but faded down the stretch against a larger opponent. Volkmann will gradually assert his will on Beerbohm as the fight progresses, grinding his foe down with his superior wrestling.

The Pick: Volkmann wins by decision.

Last Fights » The Prelims