Dream 8 Breakdown

Dream Welterweight Grand Prix
John Alessio vs. Andre Galvao

The Storyline: In a battle of former quasi-teammates, Alessio (24-12) -- one of the world’s most experienced and well-rounded welterweights -- will take on BJJ prodigy and MMA newcomer Galvao. Both men trained at Xtreme Couture Mixed Martial Arts in Las Vegas for more than a year when Galvao (2-0) joined compatriot Wanderlei Silva to prepare “The Axe Murderer” for his UFC 79 showdown with Chuck Liddell. While it’s unclear if the two engaged in any actual sparring, it seems certain they possess intimate knowledge of one another’s games.

The Breakdown: Galvao comes from the same camp, Brasa Jiu-Jitsu, as UFC middleweight contender Demian Maia. He struggled in his MMA debut against former Gladiator Challenge champion Jeremiah Metcalf, who dominated significant portions of the stand-up action. Alessio, for all his skill and experience, has oftentimes disappointed in big fights.

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The Prediction: If Alessio can keep this fight standing, the match is his to lose. On the ground, it’s a different story altogether, as there are only a select few welterweights who can hang with Galvao, a world champion grappler, on the mat. Expect Galvao to go the distance for the first time in his MMA career and win a unanimous decision.