UFC Fight Night 18 Breakdown: The Prelims

Steve Steinbeiss vs. Ryan Jensen

The Breakdown: If nothing else, this should be one of the night’s better striking displays, as both men are lithe, explosive and have the mentality to stand in the pocket and cut loose. What favors Jensen (13-5) is his speed and versatility as a striker, as he combines punches and kicks smoothly with surprising movement. Finally matched against an opponent who will oblige his desire for a kickboxing match, Jensen should be able to outclass Steinbeiss, at least while they remain upright.

The X Factor: Impressive as Jensen is standing, his grappling has been a backbreaker throughout his UFC run, as he has lost all three of his Octagon bouts via submission. It’s a surprising trend since his grappling has won him plenty of fights outside the UFC. If Steinbeiss (4-2) forces Jensen to the ground, Jensen may have another mat meltdown.

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The Bottom Line: This feels like Jensen’s last chance to make good in the UFC, and he should be able to manage the feat against Steinbeiss, who does not have anything he cannot match. Barring any more mental malfunctions from Jensen, he may even make this into one of the night’s more entertaining tilts, with Steinbeiss serving as his own personal stepping stone.