UFC on Fox 9 Preview

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Lightweights

Joe Lauzon (22-9, 9-6 UFC) vs. Mac Danzig (21-11-1, 5-7 UFC)

The Matchup: When the highly anticipated clash between Matt Brown and Carlos Condit was scratched from the UFC on Fox 9 main card, the promotion needed another bout with serious violence potential. It was only natural that a matchup involving Lauzon received the call. The Bridgewater, Mass., native has earned 12 post-fight bonuses during his UFC tenure, making him one of the most exciting talents in the organization.

“J-Lau” did not, however, receive any extra cash in his last outing, a lopsided decision defeat to Michael Johnson. While he displayed plenty of toughness by continually moving forward in the face of a beating, Lauzon appeared overwhelmed against his more athletic opponent. With that said, Lauzon’s fighting spirit is also his greatest asset. He sets a tremendous pace, both on the feet and on the mat. He has accurate boxing and is willing to engage in a firefight. However, when he uses his standup to close the distance and set up submission attempts, he is at his most dangerous.

Danzig, meanwhile, has lost three of his last four, including a brutal knockout against Melvin Guillard in his last appearance at UFC on Fox 8. Still, thanks to his skilled hands, clinch work and underrated jiu-jitsu, “The Ultimate Fighter 6” winner represents an interesting matchup for Lauzon. Danzig probably has better footwork and head movement than Lauzon, who lacks the dominant top game that has given the Californian trouble in the past. His ability to fire off combinations at range, as well as uppercuts in close quarters, may very well prompt Lauzon to get the fight to the floor.

Lauzon owns the more active submission game, but Danzig is crafty at sweeping or creating openings for offense from his guard. This one could feature a multitude of scrambles and transitions, increasing the likelihood that someone eventually secures a submission in the chaos.

The Pick: As with any Lauzon fight, expect this to get frenetic, especially in the first five minutes. In the end, Lauzon’s relentless aggression will be too much for Danzig to match. Lauzon snatches a submission in round two.

Last Fights » The Prelims