UFC 105 Preview: The Prelims

Andre Winner vs. Roli Delgado

The Breakdown: Following a heartbreaking loss to Ross Pearson in the lightweight final on “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 9, Winner will look to find solace in battering Delgado’s face. That is not an easy proposition, considering that Delgado’s slick jiu-jitsu and frustrating reach make him a difficult opponent for which to prepare, much less beat.

By the same token, Winner has proven nasty in close quarters, and Delgado has not fully harnessed the potential of his simian reach. Exacerbating that flaw, Delgado’s wrestling borders on non-existent. That will prove a bad combination, as Winner will be all-too-willing to close the pocket and turn Delgado into a canvas for his clinch combat.

The X-Factor: Delgado’s jiu-jitsu pedigree makes him a threat to anyone foolish enough to test him in his domain, and Winner will have to walk a fine line inside the clinch. Resisting the temptation to follow Delgado down when he pulls guard and evading whatever sweeps and trips Delgado attempts will be paramount for Winner, who cannot win this fight on the mat.

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The Bottom Line: Ever wondered what getting mauled by Jason Voorhees would feel like? Pay attention to this fight, as Winner will batter Delgado for however long it takes for him to stop moving. Not sure how much better Winner will feel after losing the mythic “six-figure” contract, but at least we will get to see a quality clinch clinic.