This UFC event is just riddled with question marks.
Can Chuck Liddell rebound? Should Jardine be considered a top contender? How will Shogun adjust to the Octagon? Can Forrest hang with one of the top light heavyweights in the world? Will that loss affect Diego Sanchez? Is Jon Fitch for real?
Here we go with a look at the top three matches.
Chuck Liddell vs. Keith Jardine
Both of these fighters suffered stunning first-round TKO losses in their last bouts. Liddell's title would be taken away by a looping right hook from Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, and any immediate title shot was taken away from Jardine (12-4-1) by a dangerous striker known as Houston Alexander. Because two consecutive losses in the UFC can put a fighter way out of title contention, this match could have that hint of desperation that turns a good fight into a great one. Because both of these guys like to swing for the fight fences, I don't see this one going to the ground. Liddell (20-4) has to watch out for Jardine's nasty leg kicks, and Jardine not only has The Iceman's overhand right going against him but probably an arena full of screaming Liddell fans as well. He's a bit tentative early, but the Iceman is back, scoring a second round TKO.
Mauricio "Shogun" Rua vs. Forrest Griffin
I know. I've seen the Pride fights. I've seen the American Ninja-esque/Michael Dudikoff-style kicks. I've seen what kind of athlete and fighter this man is. I remain impressed by his talent and sure that Shogun (16-2) will be a UFC champion one day -- but here's what I think will happen ------- Griffin wins by decision.
WHAT? Yep. I know, I know. But hear me out --- This is Shogun's first fight in the Octagon, so there are many rule changes for starters, taking away some of Rua's arsenal. Griffin (14-4) actually broke down in the center of the Octagon last time he lost, and I think he'll do anything to not have that feeling again anytime soon. The guy is a warrior, who actually gets better and sharper once he gets punched in the face. This could be a three-round marathon where Griffin's Octagon experience might give him the edge. Noboby believed me when I had Couture over Sylvia, even my loyal readers couldn't believe I picked Matt Serra to beat Georges St. Pierre. But they come in three's, folks. Griffin shocks the world.
Diego Sanchez vs. Jon Fitch
Fitch (16-2) is 6-0 in the UFC and has impressed me in every fight I've seen him in. Sanchez (19-1) is coming off that decision loss to Josh Koscheck and now has the pressure of a perfect professional record off his shoulders. I think Fitch will give Sanchez a great match, full of submission attempts and wild punches. But Sanchez never looks tired in the Octagon. He wins a thin split decision over Fitch in the fight of the night as both fighters get a loud round of applause.
Fightin' Words readers: What are your predictions for these UFC fights?