UFC 131 – Dustin Poirier vs. Jason Young Prediction

DUSTIN POIRIER vs. JASON YOUNG

Fight Overview:  Britain’s Jason “Shotgun” Young steps up on late notice to face surging young star Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier.  Poirier is coming off the biggest win of his career in his UFC debut and now he will look to spoil Young’s big show debut.

Young’s Strengths:  Young has solid striking with good punching power, decent wrestling, and an OK ground game.

Young’s Weaknesses:  This is a big step up in competition for him, it’s his first time in the big show, his game lacks one dominant skill, he is taking this fight on late notice, and his submission defense stinks.

Poirier’s Strengths:  Poirier is very well-rounded, with very effective submissions, decent wrestling, and solid technical boxing with heavy hands.

Poirier’s Weaknesses:  He doesn’t react well to faster guys or guys who can outwrestle him.
The Verdict:  Poirier is just too much for Young, especially on short notice.  Poirier has the experience advantage, but more importantly he is just a better fighter in every single regard.  His striking is better, his wrestling is better, and his ground game is better by a wide margin.  Young’s submission defense is decidedly subpar, and Poirier is more than equipped to exploit that weakness.  Poirier by submission.