MAIN EVENT: Frank Mir vs. Mirko (Cro-Cop) Filipovic
This matchup pits two MMA legends against each other in a battle for relevance.
Both Frank Mir and Mirko Cro-Cop have faded into the backdrop of the heavyweight division in the UFC. The winner of this fight will make a statement in the division and the loser will have to think long and hard about retiring.
Mir has lost two out of his last three fights, and both were in brutal fashion. Cro-Cop struggled when he first came to the UFC, but has won his last two fights and a win against Mir could place him in the discussion for a title shot.
The strategy in this fight for Mir will be to test Cro-Cop on the feet with his improved stand-up. If the fight goes to the ground, Mir will be just as comfortable. Look for a quick submission for Mir as Cro-Cop struggles from his back.
Cro-Cop will look to bang with Mir, hoping to land a few of his famous high leg kicks.
PREDICTION: Mir wins by submission in 2nd round
CO-MAIN EVENT: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira vs. Ryan Bader
On the line in this bout is a shot at the light heavyweight phenom Jon "Bones" Jones down the road.
Ryan Bader brings his undefeated record into this battle with "Little Nog". Nogueira is undefeated in the UFC and has proven to have dangerous stand up and an iron chin.
Arguably his first true test, Bader looks to utilize his Division 1 wrestling background to off-set Nogueira's strong stand-up.
Bader's stand-up is not to be taken lightly, however, and this bout could be very entertaining on the feet. This fight could be a war and I for one think Bader is ready to elevate to the next level.
PREDICTION: Bader wins by knockout in 3rd round
Matt Serra vs. Chris Lytle
This is not a typo. Matt "The Terra" Serra will take a trip in the time machine on Saturday night to take on Chris "Lights Out" Lytle.
Both fighters may be in the twilight of their careers, but don't blink for a second when the bell rings for this one.
Serra is coming off a dominating win over Frank Trigg, but he still has a bad taste in his mouth after losing to long time rival, Matt Hughes, in May of 2009. Lytle has won three straight and the veteran is looking to make one last run in the welterweight division.
Serra will look to get this one to the ground, but don't be surprised if they exchange some bombs early on. Lytle will dominate the stand-up if Serra can't get the fight to the ground.
PREDICTION: Serra wins by Decision
Sean Sherk vs. Evan Dunham
PREDICTION: Dunham wins by Decision
Melvin Guillard vs. Jeremy Stephens
PREDICTION: Guillard wins by knockout in 1st round
