UFC 103 Preview: The Prelims

Eliot Marshall vs. Jason Brilz

The Storyline: In another wrestler-versus-Brazilian jiu-jitsu player showdown, Brilz, a powerful Omaha, Neb., native, meets Marshall, the slick “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 8 semi-finalist. Both men are 2-0 in the UFC, but Brilz will carry a remarkable 13-fight unbeaten streak, which dates back to 2001, into the match.

The Breakdown: Brilz has done an excellent job of using his wrestling prowess to stifle his opponents, while at the same time staying out of trouble on the ground -- even against more advanced submission fighters like former UFC middleweight Jason MacDonald. He has also handled physically bigger opponents with relative ease, having fought heavyweights Justin Eilers and Brad Morris, as well as Tim Boetsch, during his eight-year career.

Marshall’s pure jiu-jitsu probably ranks behind only Lyoto Machida and Brandon Vera in the UFC light heavyweight division. In MMA, the 29-year-old Boulder, Colo., native has held the Ring of Fire light heavyweight title.

* * *

The Prediction: Marshall has progressed nicely since his time on “The Ultimate Fighter,” especially with his stand-up game. On the ground, he should have the advantage, as well. If Brilz does not come into this fight with the perfect game plan, which should include plenty of work in the clinch and on the cage, Marshall will have his hand raised after three rounds of action.