Strikeforce ‘Lawler vs. Shields’ Preview

Kevin Randleman vs. Mike Whitehead

The Breakdown: Still going at it after more than a decade in the sport, Randleman (17-12) now gets to face a member of the new guard. Both favor the wrestling game. Whitehead (23-6) lacks Randleman’s pedigree, but the former UFC champion’s sheer athleticism isn’t quite as dominating as it once was. In other words, this bout banks on who can impose his wrestling and keep his flaws far from view.

The X Factor: Striking is a skill both of these fighters like to show off, with less than impressive results. Regardless, if the wrestling game produces a stalemate, look for Randleman to start winging punches and Whitehead to start taking them. He will have no answer for Randleman’s hand speed and power.

***

The Bottom Line: The game may have left Randleman behind some time ago, but his skills remain largely intact. They’re more than enough to handle Whitehead, who does not have the wrestling chops to stop Randleman. This match will turn one-sided, as Randleman notches a ho-hum three round decision thanks to his ongoing love affair with ground-and-no pound.