UFC FIGHT NIGHT 87: ALISTAIR OVEREEM VS ANDREI ARLOVSKI

May 6, 2016

The main event for UFC Fight Night 87 features an important Heavyweight clash.

We already went over the co featured bout at UFC Fight Night 87, now it’s time to delve deep into the heart of this event. The main event features Alistair Overeem versus Andrei Arlovski. Former Strikeforce champion against former UFC champion. Both men are Heavyweights who had hit a skid in their careers but have since made some much needed adjustment and are in the thick of the title picture north of 205 pounds. Alistair Overeem is known for his devastating kickboxing attack, striking with variety and skill that most Heavyweights don’t possess. He shifts during his striking often going seamlessly from orthodox to southpaw and back again, confounding opponents with strikes that come from unexpected angles. It came as a surprise then that he was felled by Antonio Silva and Ben Rothwell during his UFC tenure. While Overeem may be a brilliant striker when he gets going, his biggest problem has always been staying focused during his bouts. He has a tendency to coast when he’s far ahead on the scorecards which has come back to bite him in the ass. He’ll need to remain focused on the sometimes wild Arlovski if he wants to avoid a devastating knock out. The former UFC Heavyweight champion Arlovski has made a bit of a career resurgence in recent years, stringing together a decent win streak before falling to current title challenger Stipe Mioscic. Arlovski has some decent boxing but does have a tendency to load up on his shots sometimes. If he hopes to defeat Overeem he’ll have to stay busy with a consistent jab and avoid giving the former K-1 champion time and space to do work. When it comes to the wrestling department both men have decent defensive and offensive skills, making it a wash. What this fight is going to come down to is who can stick to a consistent game plan and fight the match at their desired distance. From the looks of things Overeem simply has more in his toolbox and has the kickboxing experience to crush anyone in a stand up affair. What he’ll need to do in order to come out victorious is remain focused and keep Arlovski guessing as to what’s to come next. The pick is Alistair Overeem by unanimous decision. Who do you think will win the main event? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.