Could we see a new champion crowned at UFC 201?
UFC 201 is set to explode tomorrow night with a stellar main event between Welterweight champion Robbie Lawler and title challenger Tyron Woodley. The two combatants are perhaps the heaviest hitters in the 170 lbs division and could engage in a throw down for the ages. Where Robbie Lawler thrives in these kind of kill or be killed matches, will Woodley be able to stand the heat or will he have to get out of the kitchen. Ever since capturing the Welterweight championship from Johny Hendricks, Robbie Lawler has been apart of some of the most brutal fights ever to be recorded in UFC history. Despite the fact that he has had to come from behind to secure victories over both Rory MacDonald and Carlos Condit, Lawler always manages to dig deep and triumph, albeit going through a trial by fire in the process. This time around against Woodley, Lawler will have to utilize his stellar takedown defense like never before in order to keep the fight standing. Rather than staying on the outside, Lawler will have to use heavy yet controlled pressure to close the distance on Woodley and make this an ugly fight. It’s not the safest or healthiest option for Lawler, but Woodley is uncomfortable fighting up close and personal and that’s just where Robbie loves to do his best work. Tyron Woodley is a monster of a man with some explosive speed and power. His blast double leg takedown is crushing and his right straight has tons of pop and power. What he’ll need to do to throw the champion off his game is utilize his long range striking, throw feints to get Lawler to commit, then shoot for explosive takedowns. The biggest knock on Woodley has always been his cardio and if he allows the fight to get past the third round he could see himself in a world of trouble. Lawler is a slower starter than Woodley and he will have to use that to his advantage and look for opportunities to hurt the champion early and often. In a fight that’s sure to be an entertain slugfest with all the facets of MMA on display, expect the champion Robbie Lawler to come out on top once again with a 3rd round TKO victory. Do you think Lawler will remain champion or will Woodley pick up the upset? Let us know by hitting up our comments below or head on over to our official Facebook and Twitter.
Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.
