With UFC fans still smarting from what many considering a very disappointing UFC 61, Scott Swerbinsky is predicting a big comeback and amazing card tonight in UFC 62. The co-main events of Liddel-Sobral and Griffin-Bonnar are both rematches of two of the better fights in UFC history, and should make for a couple of excellent fights tonight. As always, the Spoon Man is here with the preview.
Rematches don’t always live up to the hype. You don’t have to look too far back in UFC history to see that. UFC 61 Bitter Rivals was a prime example. Tito Ortiz vs Ken Shamrock II was a mismatch. On that same card ... Tim Sylvia vs Andre Arlovski II was one of the biggest letdowns I can remember.
Come Saturday night at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, I think we'll see the complete opposite of those results. Co-main events of Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell vs Renato “Babalu” Sobral II along with Forrest Griffin vs Stephan Bonner should be just what the doctor ordered for fight fans still sick from UFC 61.
In the first fight between Liddell adn Sobral, Liddell landed a devastating head kick that is seen over and over on highlight films from the UFC. It happened in the first round at UFC 40. It was one of the best knockouts you will ever see. Saturday night Babalu looks to turn the tables on the current face of the UFC.
Since UFC 40 Sobral hasn’t lost a fight. He is 7-0 since, 3 of those wins coming in one night against three above average fighters. Chuck is 5-1 since the last meeting, losing only to legend Randy Couture. He then went on to avenge that loss, getting his Light Heavyweight title belt.
Both fighters are as well rounded as you see in the sport. Chuck wants to stand and trade blows while Babalu is a grappling freak. If he can take Liddell to the ground, he might be able to pull off the upset. The only problem with that is “The Iceman” is a word class wrestler.
I am looking forward to the rematch that just might end up fight of the year.
The co-feature is a rematch of a fight that has been called the best fight in UFC history. Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar met for the Ultimate Fighter Season One Light Heavyweight contract. It was the best fight I ever saw hands down. They beat the living hell out of each other for three fast paced rounds. They traded blows, kicks, and elbows for 15 minutes and neither guy quit for one second of the match. It was remarkable.
There is no reason to think the second matchup will be anything different. The two fighters have the heart it takes to become champion. That will be on display Saturday night.
Most UFC fans would agree with me that the last pay-per-view was a BIG disappointment. This Saturday’s card is exactly what will get the bad taste out of mouths.
I have a feeling we are going to see a new champion come away from the main event.
Babalu has the style and skills to win and stay on top of the MMA world. If he is going to do it, he has to beat the king of the sport.