UFC 150 ‘Henderson vs. Edgar 2’ Preview
Okami vs. Roberts
Middleweights
Yushin Okami (26-7, 10-4 UFC) vs. Buddy Roberts (12-2, 1-0 UFC)
The Matchup: An injury to Rousimar Palhares has given the relatively unknown Roberts a huge opportunity against a fighter who was considered to be the No. 3 middleweight in the world not all that long ago. Back-to-back losses have dropped Okami a few notches in the pecking order, however. The Japanese standout’s come-from-ahead loss to Tim Boetsch at UFC 144 was the type of defeat that can affect his mentality. “Thunder” was in control of the bout for two rounds before Boetsch turned up the aggression and finished the fight.
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Okami is a powerful middleweight who favors a grinding style. He will use his jab to set up the clinch, and if he can attain top position, he is very difficult to dislodge. Okami works persistently to pass guard, and Roberts will find it challenging to escape from his back. Okami’s output on the mat often leaves something to be desired; Roberts can help his cause by controlling Okami’s posture to force standups from this position. Of course, it would be better to avoid going to the ground at all, and Roberts’ balance and cage awareness will serve him well here. He will also have to counter as Okami advances, landing stiff right hands and leg kicks to maintain distance.
The Pick: This is a tall order for Roberts in just his second Octagon appearance, but perhaps Okami will be tentative, given the how his last fight unfolded. Roberts will need to circle and strike effectively to avoid giving Okami openings to initiate the clinch. This one could get a little ugly, but Okami has the necessary experience to take a hard-fought decision.
Next Fight » Justin Lawrence vs. Max Holloway
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