UFC on Fuel TV 9 Preview

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Bantamweights

Brad Pickett (22-7, 2-2 UFC) vs. Mike Easton (13-2, 3-1 UFC)

The Matchup: A pair of skilled 135-pounders looking to bounce back from disappointing losses square off here. After three consecutive wins to begin his UFC career, Easton appeared to be on the verge of a breakthrough until he suffered a unanimous decision defeat to Raphael Assuncao at UFC on Fox 5 in December. Despite his considerable skill set, the Alliance MMA product demonstrated an inability to make adjustments in the loss, as he continued to move forward and whiff on power strikes while Assuncao connected with counters.

Pickett, meanwhile, showed admirable durability but ultimately had no answer for the powerful right hand of Eddie Wineland in a split decision loss at UFC 155. Wineland will receive an interim title shot in his next bout, making the setback that much more painful for the man they call “One Punch.”

Expect a lot of action between these two, as both fighters favor a quick pace. Easton, however, sometimes tends to start slowly, and Pickett can take advantage by forcing exchanges in the pocket. The Brit’s standup is backed by a dangerous lead hook and uppercut, and he is willing to wade through heavy fire to find the openings he wants.

Easton, a southpaw, is most effective when he employs a multi-faceted arsenal, mixing his power punches with knees and kicks to the legs and body. A focused offensive approach is paramount to the success of “The Hulk,” who has all the physical tools but sometimes appears to lack direction in the cage.

The strength advantage should belong to Easton, who has a wrestling background and is willing to throw heavy strikes from above in order to pass guard. However, the tireless Pickett will work to force scrambles on the floor to create openings for chokes. Easton, with an active guard and a solid guillotine choke, is also game on the ground.

The Pick: Much of this depends on Easton, who cannot afford to have an extended lull against an aggressive and savvy foe such as Pickett. In a back-and-forth scrap, Pickett’s ability to transition from striking to takedowns and back again will prove to be the difference in a narrow decision triumph.

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