UFC 167 ‘St. Pierre vs. Hendricks’ Preview

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Flyweights

Tim Elliott (10-3-1, 2-1 UFC) vs. Ali Bagautinov (11-2, 1-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Some compelling 125-pound matchmaking rounds out the UFC 167 main card; both Elliott and Bagautinov are coming off dominant efforts, and another victory could make either a person of interest in the flyweight title picture. In a still-developing weight class, lengthy winning streaks are not necessarily a prerequisite for such consideration.

Bagautinov was undaunted in his Octagon debut, despite drawing more-experienced Brazilian Marcos Vinicius Borges Pancini in hostile territory at UFC Fight Night 28. The Russian showcased a versatile game, hurting his opponent with heavy hands, landing takedowns and even pulling guard to attempt a guillotine when an opening-round flurry did not deliver the desired finish. Eventually, a powerful straight right hand and follow-up standing-to-ground punches got the job done for Bagautinov in the final frame.

The man known as “Puncher King” is an aggressive standup fighter with plenty of speed and power in his hands, and he will swarm with rapid-fire flurries when he senses an opponent is hurt. Bagautinov is far from a one-dimensional knockout artist, however. He is also a decorated sambo practitioner, which was evident in his ability to hold his own in scrambles and transitions on the mat against Vinicius, even when he found himself in precarious situations.

Those skills will come in handy against Elliott, who in victories over Louis Gaudinot and Jared Papazian has been overwhelming with takedowns and ground-and-pound. Elliott, who wrestled collegiately at Central Oklahoma, may find it more difficult to bully someone with the grappling acumen of Bagautinov. If he is unable to control positioning, the Elliott who threw caution to the wind in his UFC debut against John Dodson may surface. In that bout, the Grindhouse MMA representative was extremely aggressive and attempted a number of flashy kicks against “The Ultimate Fighter 14” winner. While the approach did not result in victory, it did get Elliott noticed.

However, Elliott was quite wild from his southpaw stance, something Bagautinov can take advantage of through timely counters and level changes. Controlling distance remains a key for the Russian, as Elliott will attempt to set up takedowns with punching combinations, knees and standing elbows in close quarters.

The Pick: Bagautinov has the type of skill set that allows him to attempt submissions and transitions on the mat with confidence; even if he surrenders position, he has the ability to sweep, reverse or return to his feet. His grappling and submission game, not his knockout power, will prove to be the difference against Elliott. Bagautinov wins by decision or late submission.

Last Fights » The Prelims