UFC 131 Preview: The Prelims

Michihiro Omigawa (top) needs a win to avoid dropping to 0-4 in the UFC. | Photo:Taro Irei/Sherdog.com

The Matchup: Two 145-pounders match up here, with Omigawa looking to rebound from his loss to Chad Mendes at UFC 126. Having enjoyed a solid career in various Japanese promotions, Omigawa, a Hidehiko Yoshida protégé, has struggled to find his niche stateside, with a 0-3 record in the UFC.

The twice-beaten Elkins should look to sprawl and brawl, as Omigawa remains a rough customer in tie-ups and on the mat. A judo black belt with quick hands, Omigawa definitely needs a statement-making performance here, and he should be better on the feet and on the mat

The Pick: Too strong and too experienced, Omigawa wears down Elkins en route to a late stoppage or decision.

Jason Probst can be reached at Jason@jasonprobst.com or at www.twitter.com/jasonprobst.