Lyoto Machida vs. Thiago Silva
The semi main event showcases two undefeated Light Heavyweights duking it out in a fight that will almost definitely determine who gets the next shot at the 205 pound title. Lyoto Machida has made a strong argument for himself thusfar, handily defeating everyone placed in front of him so far and generally making his opponents look foolish in the process. Thiago Silva has also looked unstoppable thusfar, though, so this fight should be one for the ages. Odds are -285 Machida / +225 Silva currently
Lyoto Machida is easily the most talented fighter ever to be hated as much as he is. His style, which is almost painfully precise and technical, is not always a favorite with the crowds or the viewing audience. It is, however, always ridiculously effective. A karate practicioner, Machida’s standup is completely different from the kickboxing style usually displayed in MMA. Machida’s success is due, in equal parts, to his offensive ability and his ability to utterly thwart the offense of his opponents.
As Joe Rogan (very) frequently points out, Machida is one of the most “elusive” fighters in the sport, stringing his opponents along and confounding them before stepping in, throwing a few surgical blows, and then disappearing from his foe’s range of fire. His ground game is also quite advanced, so he is never overmatched, but he prefers to keep it standing.
Thiago Silva is something of an anomaly. A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with a world class ground game, he nevertheless prefers to stand and bang with his opponents, using his brutal muay thai and devastating clinch work to overwhelm them. Once a member of Chute Boxe Academy, Silva has really come into his own as a member of the extremely successful American Top Team. He can end a fight from any position, but it is going to take more than raw ability to best a tactical fighter like Machida. Silva will have to find a way to remain active and keep pushing the fight without getting roped into chasing Machida around.
I see Machida taking this fight the same way he takes most of his fights: picking his spots, backpedaling, playing the waiting game, and patiently exploiting every tiny opening. Silva is a constant threat to finish a fight, but you have to have a target to hit, and Machida is world renowned for not providing a target.
Machida by protracted, tentative unanimous decision.
