MAIN CARD: UFC 138
Chris Leben vs. Mark Munoz
With Mark Munoz’s wrestling based ground and pound, the striking prowess and iron chin of Chris Leben could be in some serious trouble. Wrestlers have been his Achilles heal, having lost to Khalib Starnes and more recently to Jake Rosholt. However as Aaron Simpson learned, you better stick to your strength! Or its sleepy time! Leben posses one of the most powerful left hooks in the division, if it lands, it could be lights out. However I see this one going to the ground, with Munoz in dominate position. Prediction: Munoz tko 2nd round
Renan Barao vs. Brad Pickett
Reana Barao has amassed a very impressive 26-1 record as a Mixed Martial Artist. He has incredible jujitsu. and also posses excellent conditioning. He will need both to fight American Top Team member Brad ‘One Punch’ Pickett, the moniker is somewhat perplexing because most of his wins came via submission. However, it is not without reason, he is one of the hardest punchers at that weight class. Working ever day with the likes of Mike Brown, Cole Miller, Mike Bruno, his wrestling skills improve daily. Prediction: Brad Pickett via 2nd round submission (Rear Naked Choke)
Papy Abedi vs. Thiago Alves
Papy Abedi is a very large man, who will be entering this fight for the first time at 170lbs. Normally fighting at 185lbs, Abdeli has destroyed his first 8 opponents using a combination of judo based grappling and devastating striking. There is one problem, he is coming down in weight to fight a ‘Pitbull’. Being welcomed to the Octagon by Thiago Alves, is certainly a baptism by fire. The one time contender has stumbled since his ferocious seven fight wins streak, however he has undergone brain surgery, so maybe give him a mulligan or two! Luckily for Alves, he won’t have to worry about wall and stall tactics from Abedi. Look for fireworks in this one! Prediction: Alves 1st rd TKO (cutting weight, and octagon jitters will cause problems for Abedi).
THE CLINCH REPORT 