UFC 168 ‘Weidman vs. Silva 2’ Preview

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Lightweights

Jim Miller (22-4, 11-3 UFC) vs. Fabricio Camoes (14-7-1, 1-2-1 UFC)

The Matchup: The placement of this bout on the pay-per-view bill is somewhat curious, but it is likely more attractive matchups such as Uriah Hall-Chris Leben or Gleison Tibau-Michael Johnson were relegated to preliminary status to satiate the content demands of Fox Sports 1.

Perhaps the most noteworthy moment of Camoes’ career came in the second bout of his first night as a professional mixed martial artist, as he battled Anderson Silva for more than 25 minutes before losing via retirement. That was in 1997, however, when Camoes was just 18 years old. While he has done well outside the Octagon in recent years, his only UFC victory came against Tommy Hayden in January 2012. A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, Camoes is known primarily for his grappling skills, but it is not a good sign that he had the notoriously ground game-deficient Melvin Guillard mounted at UFC 148 and was unable to capitalize.

Other than the occasional flying knee or head kick, Camoes does not offer much on the feet. That will be problematic against a well-rounded, action-minded fighter like Miller. In addition to being a BJJ black belt himself, Miller provides constant pressure with a versatile standup arsenal that includes left hands, elbows and leg kicks. He uses one-two combinations to move into the clinch, where he does some of his finest work.

If the action does go to the ground, Miller is active with submissions and good at forcing scrambles. He is at his best on top, so Camoes will want to try and make him defend from his back. However, Camoes is not going to physically overwhelm Miller as Pat Healy did at UFC 159.

The Pick: Eventually, Miller’s relentless pace and endless offense will take its toll. He has the potential to finish this fight, but even if he does not, expect a clear-cut decision for the New Jersey native at the very least.

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