UFC 132 Preview: The Prelims

Andre Winner’s boxing will be tested by the standup game of Anthony Njokuani. | Photo: D. Mandel

The Matchup: A standup stylist’s special unfolds here, as Winner and Njokuani collide. An exciting fighter in the WEC, Njokuani was 4-3 inside the promotion. He lost a close decision in his UFC debut to the talented Edson Mendes Barboza Jr. at UFC 128 in March, showing excellent timing and an ability to counter the dangerous Brazilian consistently. Winner has had mixed results since reaching the final of “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 9 and losing to Ross Pearson.

Getting out-grappled by Nik Lentz is understandable, but losing via rear-naked choke after being out-grappled by kickboxer Dennis Siver is another matter entirely. Like most British MMA fighters, Winner deals with a wrestling deficit in virtually every fight.

Winner has some decent strikes and speed, but Njokuani is more explosive and diverse in his attacks. He also has the option to take it down to the ground, where he can operate effectively with ground-and-pound and positional improvements.

The Pick: Njokuani by second-round knockout.

Next Fight: Jeff Hougland vs. Donny Walker