THE CLINCH REPORT

By: Jonathan King ‘The Clinch Report’

Ronda Rousey vs. Sara McMann (women’s bantamweight championship)

Daniel Cormier vs. Patrick Cummins

Rory MacDonald vs. Demian Maia

Mike Pyle vs. T.J. Waldburger

Robert Whittaker vs. Stephen Thompson

The UFC 170 fight card lost some of its appeal when co main event fighter Rashad Evans was injured in training, leaving Daniel Cormier without an opponent for his 205 lbs debut. Frantically the UFC scrambled to find a fighter, and decided on Patrick Cummins who is only 4-0 as a professional.  With other fighters refusing to fight on short notice, the UFC was left grasping to an aged story line, that had Cummins “breaking” Cormier in a training session while he was preparing for the Olympics.

No matter how much hype they try to build, the fight on paper is nothing more than filler. Cormier should have no problem dispatching Cummins, however I would not be surprised by a lack luster fight from both. Cormier is dealing with a heavy weight cut, and Cummins has never fought on such a big  stage. Cummins could shock the world, the stage is set for it, however I dont see that happening! Cormier via TKO

The real story is the Rousey vs. McMann fight. A stylistic match up that intrigues most fight fans. The Olympic Judoka vs the Olympic Wrestler. Both fighters received medals in their respected sports, as Olympians, both are undefeated, and the talent both possess as mixed martial artists has grown exponentially.  Although this fight may become a grappling match, it will certainly be a chess match of epic proportions. This fight may actually be won in the corner. In other words, the fighter that can adjust best on the fly may have the advantage. Both woman should have their moments, however Ronda can end it in a moment, so I have the Champion! Rousey via Submission.

Rory MacDonald v Demian Maia could go a long way as to define the next 170 lbs contenders. MacDonald is coming off a lackluster loss to Robbie Lawler, and Maia as well was out grappled by Jake Shields in another fight that lacked much excitement. So both have something to prove to the UFC brass. You can expect Maia to look for the take down, and you can expect MacDonald to try to avoid it at all costs! Mac Donald’s take down defense may be the difference. If  he can keep it standing, he should be able to land the decisive blow. MacDonald via TKO.

Pyle v Waldburger Should be a very entertaining fight, our candidate for FOTN (other than Rousey v McMann). Both fighters are in need of wins, to re establish themselves in the division, and both are coming off KO losses. Pyle has the experience,and its tough to bet against it, in this case! Pyle via decision.

Robert Whitaker and Stephen Thompson could be another barn burner. Although Whittaker does have an extensive submission pedigree he does like to stand and trade. That is exactly what Thompson wants to do. Thompson is one of the best kick boxers in the UFC, and if he can avoid the grasp of Whitaker he should be able to put on a striking display. Thompson via TKO.