‘The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3’ Finale Preview

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“The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3” Heavyweight Final

Antonio Carlos Jr. (3-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Vitor Miranda (9-3, 0-0)

The Matchup: Carlos, or “Cara de Sapato,” competed as a vastly undersized heavyweight on the show, checking in at 209 pounds for his quarterfinal bout and 212 for his semifinal pairing. If he sticks around the UFC, it will almost certainly be at light heavyweight or below. Of course, the same goes for Miranda, although the Team Nogueira product weighed in at a more robust 230 pounds on the show. That the heavyweight final includes two natural 205-pounders is yet another indication of how difficult it can be to find good big-man talent in MMA these days.

A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt who has won a number of titles on the grappling circuit, Carlos’ strength is his ground game. However, in the reality show quarterfinals, it was an overhand right and follow-up punches that led to a quick demise for opponent Edgard Castaldelli. Carlos returned to form in the semifinals, submitting Marcos Rogerio de Lima with a rear-naked choke in the first round. Carlos is not especially experienced, with only three pro bouts to his credit -- all in 2013 -- before appearing on the reality show. All three of those victories came by way of submission, but Carlos has already shown he is willing to trade in the pocket. Still, his ability to advance position and hunt for submissions on the mat remains his strongest quality.

Miranda has a significant edge in pro MMA experience, including a pair of notable bouts against event headliner Fabio Maldonado; Miranda lost both via unanimous decision. “Lex Luthor” also has an extensive kickboxing background, winning the K-1 Brazil 2005 and K-1 Turkey 2007 super heavyweight tournaments.

Not surprisingly, Miranda made his way through the bracket on the strength of his striking, stopping both Antonio Paulo Branjao and Richardson Moreira via TKO. Expect Miranda to make liberal use of low kicks, but his ability to land combinations to the body and head could be the difference against a less-seasoned adversary. Miranda will want to stay upright as long as possible to avoid the submission skills of Carlos.

The Pick: Experience plays a big role here, as Miranda wins by KO or TKO within two rounds.

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