Light Heavyweight bout: Chuck Liddell vs. Rich Franklin
Odds: (+110 Liddell / -140 Franklin )
In the main event of the evening, two former UFC champions will collide in a matchup that is sure to deliver some exciting standup exchanges, as former Light Heavyweight champion and UFC Hall of Famer Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell will take on former Middleweight champion Rich “Ace” Franklin. Liddell was originally scheduled to face off with heated rival Tito Ortiz, but a neck injury forced Ortiz out, and Franklin stepped up to the plate.
Obviously, Chuck Liddell is one of the most legendary fighters in the history of the sport. A bruising counterpuncher with some of the best takedown defense the sport has ever seen, Liddell was utterly dominant at 205 pounds for most of the decade. While he has clearly lost a step from his prime, Chuck still has great takedown defense, a solid chin, and a lot of punching power, which make him a formidable opponent for anyone.
Rich Franklin has been successful at both Middleweight and Light Heavyweight, due largely to his solid wrestling and excellent boxing. His hand speed is great, and he throws hard and with superb accuracy. Despite his brutal losses to Anderson Silva from that position, Franklin is actually very effective in the clinch, as well.
While both men have very good wrestling, it is almost guaranteed that this will be a stand-up affair. That said, I think you have to give the edge to Franklin. Liddell still has knockout power, but his chin isn’t as ironclad as it once was and his speed and movement are both a little depleted. Franklin’s hands are much faster, which could help confound Liddell’s effective counterpunching. I think this one will go the distance, with Franklin consistently beating Liddell to the punch to earn the unanimous decision.
Prediction: Rich “Ace” Franklin via unanimous decision.
- Liddell Fans – Chuck at +110 isnt a bad bet to take. We know he has one punch KO power and looks to be in good shape.
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