UFC 124 – Joe Stevenson vs. Mac Danzig Prediction

Fight Overview:  Two good Lightweight grapplers coming off some disappointing performances try to get back into the win column.  In an increasingly competitive Lightweight division and with the WEC merger looming, both of these guys badly need a win here.

Danzig’s Strengths:  Danzig has very technical boxing with good accuracy and hand speed to go along with a very good submission game.

Danzig’s Weaknesses:  He lacks punching power, physical strength, and wrestling.

Stevenson’s Strengths:  He has very good wrestling, positional control, ground and pound, and submissions.

Stevenson’s Weaknesses:  Like Danzig, he lacks punching power, and his lack of reach hinders him in the striking.

The Verdict:  Stylistically, this matchup favors Stevenson.  Both guys are capable but not powerful on their feet, but Stevenson is stronger and a much better wrestler, which means he will be able to dictate how the ground game plays out.  Expect him to grind out a one-sided unanimous decision with takedowns, top control, and ground and pound.