UFC 168 ‘Weidman vs. Silva 2’ Preview

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Heavyweights

Josh Barnett (33-6, 5-1 UFC) vs. Travis Browne (15-1-1, 6-1-1 UFC)

The Matchup: If Browne improves to 3-0 in 2013, he will have done so by beating an impressive trio of big men in Gabriel Gonzaga, Alistair Overeem and Barnett. At that point, it would be difficult to deny the 6-foot-7 Hawaiian a top 5 spot among the sport’s elite heavyweights.

Of course, Barnett will be none too eager to help “Hapa” usher in a new era. In his first Octagon appearance since 2002, Barnett savaged former champion and Browne teammate Frank Mir in the clinch with punches, knees and elbows to earn a stoppage 1:56 into round one at UFC 164.

While Mir has struggled to hold up under heavy fire in recent years, Browne showcased tremendous durability in an August triumph against Overeem. The Hawaiian absorbed a number of knees from the hulking Dutchman, including one against the cage that made him cry out in pain and fall to the canvas. Somehow, he returned to his feet and eventually felled Overeem with a series of roundhouse and front kicks, the last of which landed squarely on his opponent’s jaw. If Browne can survive such an assault from Overeem, who arguably possesses the most vicious knees in the business, it is going to be extremely difficult for anyone to knock him out.

Browne’s durability, coupled with his ability to land kicks from various angles and levels, makes him an interesting talent in what remains a relatively thin division. However, his trainers at Jackson’s Mixed Martial Arts have a difficult task in preparing for Barnett, who is as cerebral as they come.

Barnett’s striking and athleticism are underrated, but his wrestling and submission game truly makes him a force to be reckoned with. “The Warmaster” excels at moving into clinch range and getting his opponent down. He will utilize multiple techniques on takedowns, often putting himself into the most advantageous position possible upon hitting the canvas. Barnett is suffocating from above and has an excellent sense of when to pursue his arsenal of submissions. Browne is a competent grappler in his own right, though he has not been forced to showcase his defensive skills as of yet. Browne has yet to be taken down in UFC competition and is actually more proficient than Barnett, at least statistically, at landing takedowns. However, he has not faced anyone near Barnett’s level of wrestling skill.

The Pick: Movement, footwork and staying upright will be pivotal for Browne, as he cannot expect Barnett to fatigue as Overeem did. A knockout is also unlikely, considering Barnett has not been stopped by strikes since 2006. Still, Browne might be the most dangerous foe Barnett has faced -- save Daniel Cormier -- in years. Expect a close bout that could hinge on a few key swings in momentum. Browne wins by decision.

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