UFC 155 ‘Dos Santos vs. Velasquez 2’ Preview

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Middleweights

Yushin Okami (27-7, 11-4 UFC) vs. Alan Belcher (18-6, 9-4 UFC)

The Matchup: Belcher was expected to face Vitor Belfort at UFC 153, but the cancellation of UFC 151 triggered a series of events that ultimately led to “The Phenom” challenging light heavyweight king Jon Jones at UFC 152. The bout shuffling turned out to be for the best, as Belcher tweeted that a spinal fracture would have forced him out of his proposed showdown with Belfort anyway.

Now, “The Talent” has the chance to avenge a 2006 loss to Okami, which came in his promotional debut at UFC 62. The Mississippi native enters the contest riding the momentum of an impressive UFC on Fox 3 triumph over feared submission specialist Rousimar Palhares. Belcher weathered the leg lock attempts of the Brazilian and even attempted a twister before pounding out a victory from his opponent’s guard in the first round.

A former middleweight title challenger, Okami halted a two-fight skid with a second-round technical knockout triumph over Buddy Roberts at UFC 150. It was a business-like performance from the Japanese fighter, as he grounded and mounted his less-heralded adversary in both rounds before moving to back mount to finish the bout with strikes in the second frame.

Belcher’s greatest challenge will be to create enough space to work his kickboxing. The 28-year-old fights to finish on the feet, landing solid combinations and kicks to the legs and body. In addition, as he demonstrated against Palhares, his jiu-jitsu is underrated. Belcher is not averse to taking risks on the ground, but those opportunities could be limited if he finds himself beneath Okami.

“Thunder” is stifling from top position, as he maintains steady control against his opponents while constantly working to pass guard. Okami is much more conservative than a fighter like Palhares, so Belcher could find it difficult to escape if he gets planted on his back.

On the feet, Okami is proficient at using his jab to set up the clinch. The judo black belt is adept at wearing down his opponents against the cage before forcing the action to the mat. Belcher, however, is likely big enough to compete at 205 pounds and can offer enough offense in the clinch to make Okami work.

The Pick: Belcher needs to rely on movement and angles in order to land strikes and keep Okami at a safe distance. The Japanese fighter can get rocked on the feet by an aggressive foe, and Belcher has the tools to test his chin. Belcher seems like a man who is trending upward. He out-duels Okami to capture a decision.

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