The Breakdown: Larson comes from the same camp as his much more prominent namesake Brock Lesnar and former UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk, whom he also calls one of his role models. As a result, his fighting style resembles that of the “Muscle Shark,” focusing on wrestling with the odd submission thrown in for good measure. Larson is currently riding a five-fight win streak.
Pierce is a stocky ground-and-pound machine who holds wins over TUF 7’s Mike Dolce, IFL veteran Mark Miller and most recently highly touted collegiate wrestler Paul Bradley, who was 10-0 prior to their fight and whom he beat on points. Pierce has been a regular for Oregon promotion Sportfight, where he has been the welterweight champion.
The Prediction: This is Larson’s fight to lose. Pierce is a tough nut to crack, however, so expect them to go the distance before the Minnesotan can snatch another W.