UFC Middleweight bout: Brian Stann vs. Jorge Santiago
Odds: ( -145 Stann /+115 Santiago )
Betting Pick: Santiago
Bet on this fight at Bodog.com
In the second bout of the evening, Sengoku standout Jorge Santiago makes his return to the UFC against tough brawler Brian “All American” Stann. Santiago has been on a tear in Japan recently, while Stann is coming off the biggest win of his career against Chris Leben. Santiago is very dangerous and well-rounded, but Stann has devastating striking and an underrated ground game, so this is going to be a rough return to the Octagon for Santiago.
Brian Stann made his way to UFC when WEC folded its heavier weight classes, and has been extremely successful since. A heavy-handed boxer with decent technique and serviceable wrestling, Stann is a dangerous opponent for anyone because he could explode on his feet at any time and can hold his own on the ground. While he is not one of the most technical fighters in the world in any area, he is very tough, very durable, and capable of playing spoiler on any night against almost anyone.
Jorge Santiago washed out of the UFC years ago, but has completely rejuvenated his career in Japan, becoming one of the top Middleweights in the world outside of the UFC. Now, riding a huge wave of momentum and having won 11 of his last 12, he makes his return to the big show. Santiago is very well-rounded, with decent wrestling, good striking, and effective submissions. Not only does he have a versatile skill set, he puts it all together very well, which keeps his opponents off their game and opens up more opportunities for him.
I think that Santiago is just too versatile for Stann. Stann has great striking with a lot of power, but so does Santiago, and Santiago is the superior wrestler and grappler. Stann is very tough and difficult to finish, but I think Santiago’s superior versatility and ground game will earn him the unanimous decision victory.
Prediction: Jorge Santiago via Unanimous Decision.
- I like Santiago @+115 to pull off an upset victory.
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