UFC Live 3 Preview

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Lightweights
Joe Stevenson vs. Danny Castillo

The Matchup: Once a red-hot contender with a string of impressive wins, Stevenson finds himself taking on UFC newcomer Danny Castillo in what should prove a compelling 155-pound match.

There are few mysteries surrounding either guy. Stevenson wants to use standup to get it to the ground, where he can unleash outstanding transitions and his crushing guillotine. Castillo is a hard-charging brawler with solid wrestling who could not make a fight boring if he tried.

Castillo’s edge lies in his upside and how much of it he will be able to bring into the bout. After securing a place in the UFC with a decision win over Dustin Poirier and an 85-second blowout of Will Kerr, Castillo’s career is back on a positive track after consecutive losses to Shane Roller and Anthony Pettis.

Stevenson has the ability to hit impressive moves on the ground. Witness the nifty banana split he uncorked on Nate Diaz at “The Ultimate Fighter 9” Finale or his consistent guard passing, and it becomes obvious the best way to beat Stevenson is by overpowering him, not letting him lead on the mat. George Sotiropoulos used that strategy to keep “Daddy” on the defensive, and Castillo will have to do the same. His hands are a little stronger than Stevenson’s, and he throws a lot harder and with more consistency.

The Pick: This one comes down to the elemental factor -- being able to put hurt on the other guy before he can do it to you. Castillo has a good matchup here and will come up big, using aggression and greater physical strength en route to a second-round stoppage.

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