TUF 9 Finale Preview: The Main Card

Ross Pearson vs. Andre Winner

The Breakdown: An all-UK lightweight final awaits everyone who successfully sat through another season of testosterone-laced endlessness, as journeyman turned potential poster boy Ross Pearson takes on the incomparably named Andre Winner. Already considered one of the Rough House’s prized prospects, Winner has dominated thus far by scoring stoppages in the first stanza of all of his TUF bouts. Pearson hasn’t been quite as impressive as his countryman. Reason being Pearson just doesn’t have Winner’s raw talent and athleticism -- a difference that Pearson can only hope to overcome with sheer grit and gumption.

The X Factor: After an easy run into the finals, Winner may not be ready to deal with Pearson’s pressing style and attrition approach inside the cage. Winner has shown a willingness to go all-out against anyone, and that freelancing style could cost him dearly against an opponent who fights like he’s doing his best Michael Myers impersonation. Watch the early going closely because if Winner can’t keep Pearson off him, he’ll spend more time trying to survive than trying to win.

The Bottom Line: Let me level with you: This season hasn’t exactly revealed any hidden gems. We all know Pearson is a bulldog who lacks top-shelf talent and Winner is a solid prospect with his share of flaws. With that said, we’ll at least get a solid scrap, as Winner takes some early licks before overwhelming Pearson on the feet and notching an impressive knockout win to take home the double-edged sword that is a TUF title.