UFC on Fuel TV 10 Preview

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Welterweights

Erick Silva (14-3, 2-2 UFC) vs. Jason High (16-3, 0-1 UFC)

The Matchup: Silva remains one of the more intriguing talents in the welterweight division, although expectations have calmed down somewhat after the Brazilian was stymied by Jon Fitch in his last outing at UFC 153. “Indio” had his moments in the bout, including threatening Fitch with a tight rear-naked choke in the second round, but the American’s grinding approach took its toll on Silva, as the young fighter was clearly fatigued in the final frame.

Now Silva must solve another wrestler in High, who has won seven straight fights since his release from the UFC following a loss to Charlie Brenneman in March 2010. Most recently, High closed out his Strikeforce tenure with a 26-second submission of Nate Moore in July.

There are no secrets as to what High wants to do, as the HD MMA co-founder usually relies on takedowns, top control and ground-and-pound to carry him to victory. The question is, can he execute such a game plan as well as Fitch, who is adept at punching his way into clinch and takedown range, or will he suffer the fate of Brenneman, who was able to take Silva down in their June 2012 meeting but was unable to keep him grounded?

High’s athleticism and rapid pace will force Silva to work, but the “Kansas City Bandit” must throw punches in combination in order to disguise his shots. A black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and judo, Silva has an excellent sprawl and is more than capable of sweeping and hunting for submissions on the canvas. High has an underrated jiu-jitsu game himself, but it is unlikely that he can consistently threaten Silva in this area. On the feet, the aggressive Brazilian has a decided edge. High has struggled in the past when he cannot control foes with his wrestling, and Silva possesses the type of dynamic skill set that can give him problems.

The Pick: Conditioning will be paramount, as High will be probably able to get some takedowns; it is just a matter of how long he can neutralize Silva. Just because Fitch was able to impose his will on Silva does not mean High will be able to do the same. The Brazilian eventually catches High attempting to close the distance and wins via TKO or submission in round two.

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