UFC Free Pick: KENNY FLORIAN VS. JOE STEVENSON
by Charles Jay
Kenny Florian (favored at -185) and Joe Stevenson (+145 underdog) will be meeting up at UFC 91 in an elimination bout, with the winner on track for a shot at the UFC lightweight title. Both of these competitors come out of the Ultimate Fighter series. Both have a strong fan following. And both know how to fight under adversity. They'll be putting that ability to the test, for sure. Stevenson suffered a submission loss to B.J. Penn in January, which was his opportunity to win the lightweight title. Florian also had a chance at the crown, but lost to Sean Sherk two years ago. After five straight wins, he feels he's ready.
This fight represents a real good matchup of styles, which contrast. Stevenson is the guy who really wants to get this fight to the ground, where he can do what he does best. Florian has to be proficient in defending against takedowns. If he can maintain a stand-up position, he's going to win and might in fact win rather easily. Remember that Stevenson was taken out of his game almost immediately when Penn knocked him down with an uppercut. Striking, and defending strikes, is not his forte.
You could say that Florian did not have a whole lot of experience when he originally made his title challenge, with just seven fights under his belt when he stepped into the Octagon against Sherk. He's had five bouts since then, including a decision over Roger Huerta. However, Florian is going to have a hard time keeping this fight off the ground. Sooner or later, the more experienced Stevenson is going to get him to the canvas, because he will be bound and determined to do so, and when that happens, he'll use his considerable grappling skills to gain a submission via guillotine choke in the second round, and move on for yet another title shot.
Free UFC Sports Betting Pick: STEVENSON (+145) BY SUBMISSION IN ROUND TWO
