Who will be the Middleweight kingpin?

Fighting Words pits two of our Generation Iron MMA writers against each other in a heated debate on big fight predictions. Jonathan Salmon: So it looks like destiny will finally have it’s day as Michael Bisping challenges Luke Rockhold for the UFC Middleweight strap at UFC 199. Say what you will about Bisping, but he may have the drive and ability to confound Rockhold in the octagon and finally win the must sought after championship title. Rockhold is great, but the hunger that Bisping possesses may carry him through. Lionel Harris-Spence: No…it won’t. While I know Micheal Bisping thinks its his “destiny” to win the championship, contrary evidence points to 2nd round K.O. Sure, he’s charismatic, and if he could talk as good as he fights then he would’ve won the championship a long time ago. Unfortunately for him Rockhold is bigger, stronger, and a beast on the ground…game, blouses. JS: But you’re forgetting about the unofficial first match that they had. The one where Michael Bisping destroyed Luke Rockhold. I think Bisping has enough hustle and ring generalship to throw Rockhold off his game. If he puts the pressure on him, stays busy, and avoid Rockhold’s counter right hook, then we could be looking at a new champion here. LHS: But you’re forgetting about the actual match, the real first one. The one where Michael Bisping was over matched all around and got beat up until he was choked out with ONE ARM. The one we actually saw, held by a sanctioning body? Yeah that fight. Rockhold’s athleticism combined with his 6’4′” frame is handful for anyone, nevertheless the ageing Micheal Bisping. No amount of hoping and wishing is going to get him out of round 2! JS: Hmm, you’ve got a point. Well, even though he has a chance I think the fact that I read the word athleticism has somehow brought me to a new conclusion. I’m not sure it will be done inside two rounds, but I do think that a victor will come about in the third, namely…Luke Rockhold. Damn you and your convincing argument! LHS: But it really wasn’t that convincing….I just spat out soundbites that everyone already knew. JS: I know, but I had to make it interesting… Lionel’s Pick: Luke Rockhold by TKO in Round 2 Jonathan’s Pick: Luke Rockhold by submission in Round 3 Who do you think will leave The Forum as the Middleweight champ? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.