by Jonathan King: The Clinch Report

Charles Oliveira (16-2 MMA, 4-2-1 NC UFC) vs. Cub Swanson (17-5 MMA, 2-1 UFC))

In the main cards first bout, two dynamic strikers are put face to face to clear up the featherweight division. Since moving too the division Oliviera is 2- 0, with both wins coming via impressive submission. WEC vet Cub Swanson is looking to build off of recent wins over Ricardo Lamas, and Ross Pearson. Swanson also possesses one of the most dangerous guillotine chokes in all of MMA.

Predictions: Oliviera via late first round submission. In a very exciting 4 minute fight.

Matt Hamill (10-4 MMA, 9-4 UFC) vs. Roger Hollett (13-3 MMA, UFC DEBUT)

Matt ‘The Hammer’ Hamill is returning after a brief, and seemingly early retirement from the sport. Re invigorated and excited to be back, ‘The Hammer’ looks to spoil the long awaited UFC debut of Roger Hollett. Hollet the owner of a 5 fight win streak will have to avoid the aggressive wrestling of the seasoned Hamill. He may be able to secure a submission from the bottom, although he would be the first to do so, as Hamill has never tapped in his MMA career.

Predictions: Matt Hamill via 2nd rd TKO

Michael Bisping (22-4 MMA, 12-4 UFC) vs. Brian Stann (12-4 MMA, 6-3 UFC)

This fight has ‘Fight of The Night’ potential. Both fighters possess incredible striking power, with Bisping maintaining an edge on technique, while Stann holds the power advantage. Stann may have an edge in the wrestling department, however Bisping’s ground game is massively improved and incredible under rated. Both fighters are looking to stake their claim to contender status, so that should add to the excitement. The fight should be a great stand up war that displays a power vs technique.

Prediction: Michael Bisping via unanimous decision

Joseph Benavidez (16-2 MMA, 2-0 UFC)vs. Demetrious Johnson (15-2-1 MMA, 3-1-1 UFC) -For Inaugural UFC Flyweight Title

This is another candidate for ‘Fight of The Night’. Both fighters are have great cardio conditioning, so 5 rounds is not an issue for either fighter. Johnson has gone the distance with Dominick Cruz and Ian McCall recently. Benavidez has only lost twice in his career, both losses coming at the hands of Dominick Cruz. Each fighter possess great wrestling and grappling skills, however Benavidez will have a distinct power advantage. This fight may be won in the corners between rounds, with adjustment being the key to victory. Both fighters have been on the verge of title contention for a long time, and finally one will emerge a champion.

Prediction: Joseph Benavidez via unanimous decision

Champ Jon Jones (16-1 MMA, 11-1 UFC) vs. Vitor Belfort (21-9 MMA, 10-5 UFC)- Light Heavyweight Championship Bout

This fight is the most talked about UFC contest in years, for all the wrong reasons. Injuries forced the UFC’s hand and after losing Dan Henderson to a torn knee, the UFC was forced to cancel its first event UFC 151. Many consider this to be a walkover for Jon Jones, being that Belfort is not even a ranked divisional foe (normally Belfort fights at 185lbs, although he has fought in all of the heavy divisions). Jones who has systematically destroyed everyone put in front of him, should be able to do the same against the much smaller Belfort. However, Vitor Belfort is no slouch, and although he may be past his prime he is still a very explosive striker. If Jon Jones gets sloppy, he could very easily get caught in a ‘Phenom’ rush that has knocked out a whose who of MMA elite.

Prediction: Jon Jones via TKO(referee stoppage) rd 2.