Strikeforce ‘Diaz vs. Cyborg’ Preview

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Light Heavyweights
Roger Gracie vs. Trevor Prangley

The Matchup: Gracie’s submission grappling and jiu-jitsu credentials are phenomenal, and he consistently ranks among the best with fans of those sports. How that translates into MMA remains a bit of a teasing proposition, as he has had only three fights, all submission wins over name opponents: Ron Waterman, Yuki Kondo and former UFC champion Kevin Randleman.

Gracie’s stand-up is serviceable, as he seems comfortable using a pesky jab and decent combinations to maximize his 6-foot-4 frame. On the mat, he is everything one would expect from a man with his last name.

Prangley, meanwhile, has been a solid fringe contender at 185 pounds for years, often falling short against the better competition but staying competitive with solid wrestling and lots of experience. At 38, his better days might be behind him, but he has gone 12-2-1 since parting ways with the UFC in 2006.

Prangley’s task is obvious but treacherous -- get the fight to the floor and hammer Gracie while avoiding his otherworldly submission game. He does not figure to beat Gracie on the feet unless he lands a sudden, startling bomb, and Gracie has shown a stout chin against his level of competition thus far. Gracie still has an upside in MMA and figures to get more comfortable in the various ranges there: standing, clinching, Thai boxing and whatnot.

The Pick: Watch for Gracie to find openings, perhaps end up on his back a time or two and exploit a sweep or submission en route to a second-round stoppage.