The Red King vs Wonderboy

Finally, one of the most anticipated events of the year is upon us. No, I’m not referring to UFC 200, which is likely to produce it’s own fair share of fireworks. No, what I’m talking about is UFC Fight Night 89 which features a main event that for my money is the greatest of the year. Rory MacDonald versus Stephen Thompson will truly epitomize what makes MMA so great. It’s a clash of style between two of the most technical fighters in not only the Welterweight division, but the entire UFC organization itself. Despite the fact that he’s considered a veteran of the sport, Rory MacDonald is a still only 26 years old. That being said, MacDonald has been through some massive wars in his career making him battle tested to take on someone of Thompson’s caliber. With a great and accurate jab, good boxing fundamentals, an underrated kicking and wrestling game, and some brutal ground and pound, Rory MacDonald is clearly one of the most feared men in the Welterweight division. Tristar head coach Firas Zahabi is likely to have come up with a game plan to deal with Thompson’s outside game and kicking arsenal. That means MacDonald will likely put pressure on Thompson and look to mix in his jabs, kicks, and wrestling for a stifling game. Speaking of Stephen Thompson’s arsenal, the talented American kickboxer has a base in Kempo karate that has confounded each of his opponents in the Octagon. The kind of experience Thompson has should make MacDonald worry as “Wonderboy” has seen almost everything you can think of in the striking realm. The fact that Thompson fights from both stances will also likely play a factor as to whether or not MacDonald will be able to utilize his pressure correctly. Thompson can easily switch to southpaw which would take away one of MacDonald’s best weapons, the jab. If Thompson can get MacDonald thinking, utilize some well placed kicks, and counter with hard accurate shots when MacDonald comes forward, it could be a long night for “The Red King.” The X factor in this fight is how has Rory recovered from his last war with Robbie Lawler. Both men took a savage beating in that fight and MacDonald suffered some serious damage that could effect him mentally in this match. It’s unlikely that MacDonald will be gun shy, but it does open up the possibility that Thompson could catch the young man off guard. Even if Rory is in great mental shape for this fight, Thompson’s spacial awareness, takedown defense, and experience is likely to get him a win this weekend. Look for Stephen Thompson to keep distance, pick his shots, and land some meaningful offense to win by KO in the second frame. Who do you think will win this weekend, MacDonald or Thompson? Follow Generation Iron MMA on Facebook and Twitter. Also, be sure to share, like, and comment to show your support.

Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.