UFC Fight Night 28 Preview

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Flyweights

Joseph Benavidez (18-3, 5-1 UFC) vs. Jussier da Silva (15-2, 1-1 UFC)

The Matchup: Like so many of his Team Alpha Male counterparts, Benavidez has blossomed under the guidance of new coach Duane Ludwig. Not that his striking was anything to be ashamed of before, but in his most recent victory, a second-round stoppage of Darren Uyenoyama at UFC on Fox 7, Benavidez reached a new level. He overwhelmed Uyenoyama throughout, but the body work -- a liver kick followed by a left hook -- demonstrated that the 29-year-old is still getting better.

As it stands, Benavidez, along with fellow former top contender John Dodson, probably remain the most dangerous challengers for current flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson, even though both have already fallen to “Mighty Mouse.” Another dominant victory, which would be Benavidez’s third straight since losing to the champ at UFC 152, would go a long way toward earning him a return date with Johnson.

For two rounds, da Silva showed why he was once regarded as the No. 1 flyweight in the world against Chris Cariaso at UFC on FX 8. While takedowns and a smooth top game carried “Formiga” for 10 minutes, the fact that he faded in round three does not bode well for him against Benavidez, whose work rate and conditioning are top-notch. Da Silva, who was dropped twice en route to losing to Dodson in his Octagon debut, does not want to spend too much time standing with Benavidez.

The Brazilian’s standup is serviceable, but it is only a means to an end, and Benavidez will not have to fear a knockout as he presses the action. Da Silva’s best assets are his instinct and timing on takedowns. He will constantly look to achieve back control on the mat, and once he gets it, he can often maintain it for the majority of a round. The problem with that approach here is that not only is Benavidez physically stronger but he usually gets the best of scrambles and transitions; and that is assuming the World Extreme Cagefighting veteran even allows the fight to get to the floor. He could be just as comfortable roughing up da Silva on the feet. Benavidez’s submission game is formidable, as well, particularly his guillotine and rear-naked choke.

The Pick: Unless he makes a costly error, Benavidez will dictate the tempo and location of this fight. Look for the Team Alpha Male stalwart to rock da Silva standing and then pounce for the finish, winning via sub or TKO in round one or two.

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