Strikeforce ‘Tate vs. Rousey’ Preview

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Middleweights
Scott Smith (17-9, 3-4 SF) vs. Lumumba Sayers (5-2, 1-1 SF)

The Matchup: After a two-fight stint at welterweight, Smith returns to 185 pounds for his matchup with Sayers. Considering that Smith has competed at heavyweight and light heavyweight earlier in his career, it was probably a good move for the Californian. Though he has lost four of his last five, the 32-year-old remains a dangerous foe thanks to his tremendous knockout power.

A Grapplers Edge export, Sayers is coming of a first-round knockout of Antwain Britt at Strikeforce Challengers 20, a finish he earned in just 28 seconds. Four of Sayers’ five career triumphs have come via submission, but the Coloradan is not afraid to engage in a fire fight, as he demonstrated in a loss to Derek Brunson in his Strikeforce debut last summer. That could prove costly against Smith, who usually eschews his decent takedown and tie-up skills in favor of trading on the feet.

Sayers’ strategy should include a healthy dose of leg kicks to help lower Smith’s guard and keep him on the outside. “Hands of Stone” is most dangerous fighting in the pocket, and he is willing to absorb his share of punishment to get there. This approach often works for Smith because of his remarkable recovery rate; his comeback wins against the likes of Cung Le and Benji Radach are the stuff of legend. It is because of this that Sayers must proceed with caution if he catches Smith with something significant early.

The Pick: Sayers, who has experience in both boxing and Toughman competitions on his resume, will find it difficult to resist the temptation of a brawl. After a few spirited exchanges, a Smith counter will connect and end the fight in round one.

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