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NGANNOU VS FERREIRA

UFC Live 4 Preview: The Prelims

Jason ProbstJun 25, 2011
Joe Lauzon (right) is .500 in his last six fights. | Photo: D. Mandel


Lightweights
Joe Lauzon (19-6, 6-3 UFC) vs. Curt Warburton (7-2, 1-1 UFC)

The Matchup: Wrestlers dominate the top ranks of the 155-pound division, so guys like Lauzon and Warburton tend to make for fights that are often literally all over the cage, in varying positions. Lauzon’s faced better competition; Warburton needs a standup fight against a submission-savvy opponent.

Lauzon’s submission loss to then-rising contender George Sotiropoulos at UFC 123 may not have represented anything more than a bad style matchup and an off night. We should expect some back-and-forth exchanges, as neither guy is a killer on the feet. Both will look to set a fast pace and get top position if it goes to the mat. There, Lauzon’s solid jiu-jitsu and calm demeanor should help him survive and get out of any bad positions.

The Pick: Lauzon by second-round submission.

Continue Reading » Next Fight: Daniel Roberts vs. Rich Attonito