UFC on Fuel TV 10 Preview

---

Featherweights

Rony Mariano Bezerra (12-3, 2-0 UFC) vs. Mike Wilkinson (8-0, 1-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Having already bested foes from “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” Season 1 and “The Ultimate Fighter 15” in his first two UFC appearances, Bezerra’s reality show tour continues, this time against “The Ultimate Fighter: The Smashes” veteran Wilkinson.

After a somewhat lackluster outing in earning a unanimous verdict against Godofredo Castro at UFC 147, “Jason” rediscovered his finishing prowess against Sam Sicilia at UFC 153, winning via technical knockout in the second round. Prior to his stint on the reality show, all 10 of Bezerra’s triumphs had come by way of knockout or submission, including nine inside of a round. The Team Nogueira representative was in prime form against Sicilia, staggering his foe with a left hook in round one and landing a beautiful knee in the clinch before overwhelming the American with hammerfists on the mat in the second frame.

Wilkinson was fortunate to earn a split decision over Brendan Loughnane at UFC on FX 6. While “The Warrior” deserves credit for his constant aggression and pressure in the fight, he landed less significant strikes than Loughnane in every round and was successful on just one of 12 takedown attempts. For someone who generally relies on wrestling and top control, that does not bode well for his matchup with Bezerra. Wilkinson was stung repeatedly by leg kicks against Loughnane, and Bezerra, who has a seven-inch reach advantage, should be able to do the same. Wilkinson must attack with caution, as his Brazilian foe has good power in his counter right hand and lead left hook.

Bezerra has solid submission defense and should be able to handle himself if Wilkinson does land a takedown at some point. The Brazilian’s muay Thai, particularly knees in the clinch, should aid in deterring some of Wilkinson’s pressure.

The Pick: Wilkinson threw -- and missed -- a lot of strikes in his UFC debut, and he will pay for similar inaccuracy against Bezerra. “Jason” wins by KO or TKO in round one or two.

Last Fights » The Prelims