Nate Diaz vs. Clay Guida
In an exciting lightweight matchup that could definitely have some future title implications, Stockton’s own Nathan Diaz is set to face off with hard-working veteran Clay “The Carpenter” Guida. Diaz has been riding high ever since his bizarre Ultimate Fighter 5 win, but Guida is a tough opponent for anyone, so if Diaz wants to keep his streak going he is going to have his hands full.
Clay Guida, more than anything, is known for his heart and determination. He is the kind of fighter who not only never gives up, but never stops moving forward and taking the fight to his opponent. A well rounded fighter who is competent at every aspect of the fight game but spectacular at none, Guida’s success stems from his refusal to ever stop pressing the issue inside the Octagon. His biggest strength in terms of skill is definitely his wrestling, which is powerful and explosive.
That said, against Diaz he would be better served keeping the fight standing and trying to constantly create pressure, as Diaz’s standup is questionable but he is extremely dangerous on the ground.
The younger brother of former UFC fighter Nick Diaz, Nate’s style is extremely similar to his brother’s. Diaz holds a brown belt under Cesar Gracie, which is more prestigious than a black belt from many other instructors, as he has proven inside the Octagon repeatedly. His standup, while not horrible, is extremely awkward and his tendency to keep his chin up could prove problematic.
Stylistically, this is an extremely interesting fight, because Diaz has all the skills necessary to end the fight on the ground with a submission, but may lack the skills necessary to get the fight to the ground to begin with.
There is no question that Guida is the superior wrestler, so if Diaz wants to take him down he is going to have to use some unconventional methods. His best strategy will be to use his awkward boxing to keep Guida unsteady, and try to close into a clinch and score a judo throw or leg trip.
I see Diaz’s winning ways continuing in this bout, but not until he has been roughed up a good bit first. Guida should control this one early with strikes and wrestling, but Diaz is too slick on the ground to be denied.
Diaz by submission, round 3.
