Preview: UFC Fight Night ‘Volkov vs. Struve’

Welterweights

Leon Edwards (13-3) vs. Bryan Barberena (13-4)

THE MATCHUP: Whether or not Edwards can win this fight hinges on his ability to mix things up. His wrestling has improved, and his submission grappling is more of a threat than ever before. In focusing on these skills, however, Edwards seems to have lost some of the old confidence in his hands, and he has never been a particularly high output striker. Edwards will likely win the first round, and he may do it with either his wrestling or his striking.

Barberena will not be shaken by the varied attack the way Albert Tumenov was at UFC 204, however, and his habit of steadily building steam over the course of the fight means that the consistency of Edwards’ boxing will be tested.

THE ODDS: Edwards (-295), (+235)

THE PICK: One has to think the MMA Lab’s pressure will be just a bit too much for Edwards. The pick is Barberena by unanimous decision.

Last Fights » The Prelims