Strikeforce ‘Rousey vs. Kaufman’ Preview

Light Heavyweights

T.J. Cook (12-4, 1-1 Strikeforce) vs. Ovince St. Preux (11-5, 5-1 Strikeforce)

The Matchup: St. Preux had a valuable learning experience in January, when he had an eight-fight winning streak halted by former Strikeforce and Dream champion Gegard Mousasi. The onetime University of Tennessee linebacker had relied on athleticism up until then, masking mistakes with superior physical attributes. Against the seasoned Mousasi, however, St. Preux appeared especially vulnerable to takedowns and had no answer for the Armenian’s offense once he was planted on his back. The silver lining in the unanimous decision setback came when the Knoxville MMA product showed impressive resolve in taking the final frame from Mousasi, who had been completely dominant to that point.

Now St. Preux gets the opportunity to rebound against Cook, an aggressive 205-pounder who has displayed solid knockout power against lower levels of competition. The Belleview, Fla., native struggled against the wrestling of Trevor Smith at Strikeforce Challengers 20, submitting to a guillotine choke in the opening stanza.

While St. Preux will have to be wary of being caught with something significant as Cook comes forward, most of the advantages belong to the former Volunteer. An accurate striker with a 7.5-inch reach advantage, the southpaw St. Preux can keep his foe at range with kicks. Should Cook decide to press the action, St. Preux is a solid counterpuncher.

Although he struggled in that area against Mousasi, St. Preux also figures to have the edge in the wrestling department. He needs to become more aggressive with his ground-and-pound, as much of his offense after takedowns consists of simply maintaining top position.

The Pick: Unless Cook catches him with his hands down, St. Preux should be able to cruise to victory. The manner in which he wins will be significant, as a dominant performance could warrant another marquee matchup down the road. St. Preux wins by decision.

Last Fights » The Prelims