UFC 97 - Predictions

For those of you that don't know, I am a huge UFC buff. Last year, I was writing articles for The Mike newspaper with my UFC predictions for every event. Since the end of the last academic term I took a hiatus. Well, I find it appropriate to resurrect my predictions article. So here it is, my UFC 97 predictions for the two main events.

UFC Middleweight Title - Anderson Silva/Thales Leites

Leites, primarily a Jiu-Jitsu fighter, seems to be the man to take out Anderson Silva. He only has one loss in his professional career, and his Jiu-Jitsu is one of the strongest in the game.Anderson Silva is on a tear, as this will be his sixth title defense. His striking is second to none, and he has proven that he can take care of himself on the ground. Will this be his swan song?

Silva was obviously not in his top form in his last defense against Canadian Patrick Cote. If the Silva that was in that fight shows up again, it can easily be a one sided fight for Leites. However, Silva is looking to prove himself and show tht he can return to his top form. Also realize that one of Leites' victories came against another Silva victim - Nate Marquardt. However, it was a split decision victory (and it came due to the fact that Marquardt committed two fouls). Prior to that fight, Silva Silva can (and should) return to his championship form come Saturday. I do believe a Jiu-Jitsu ace will dethrone Silva, but it won't be Leites.

Winner: Anderson Silva

Chuck Liddell vs Mauricio "Shogun" Rua"

Oh, how the mighty have fallen. Chuck Liddell has won only ONE of his last four fights. At 39, he is approaching the tail end of his UFC career. Shogun is 1-1 in his UFC career, and his looking to reestablish himself at the top of the food chain. This is simiar to the Silva/Leites fight, as you have the striker vs the gound fighter. Liddell, with his wrestling background will look to keep this fight on his feet. If this fight goes to the ground, expect Shogun to have an edge. IF this fight remains standing, I give either fighter a puncher's chance. Liddell and Shogun will both be out to prove something in this fight. Canada made history at the last UFC event held in Canada.

Shogun has the tools to beat Liddell, and he has some momentum after his last win over Mark Coleman. Expect history to be made again, as I believe Shogun will beat Liddell into retirement.

Winner: Mauricio "Shogun" Rua