By E. Spencer Kyte (espencerkyte@mmaratings.net)
Yesterday we tackled the three undercard bouts and tomorrow we’ll talk about everything involving the cast of Season 10.
As for today, it’s time to discuss one of the most talented prospects in the sport facing a tough TUF alum, and an unbeaten newcomer stepping into the cage against a serious challenger for the lightweight crown.
Forgoing the normal flow of the Fight Week Preview pieces, consider these look-ins on the two main event matches your cheat sheets for figuring out who will emerge victorious on Saturday night.
Matt Hamill (7-2-0) vs. Jon Jones (9-0-0)
The former Season 3 cast member Hamill has compiled a 6-2 record inside the Octagon and will be looking to extend his winning streak to three at the expense of his young opponent.
While Hamill has been around far longer than Jones, the latest addition to Team Jackson actually has the more impressive resume of the two, as “Bones” holds wins over Andre Gusmao, Stephan Bonnar and Jake O’Brien. Of Hamill’s six wins, the biggest name “The Hammer” has beaten is Seth Petruzelli.
Both fighters possess terrific wrestling bases, which often leads to a war being waged on the feet. Though Hamill has some solid ground and pound, Jones is one of the most dynamic and creative strikers in the game.
Even though many are calling this a step up in competition for Jones, this is a big bout for both fighters; the winner goes forward to face the stiff challenge of the Top 10 light heavyweights the UFC has to offer, while the loser remains stuck in the middle like Jimmy Eat World.
Frankie Edgar (10-1-0) vs. Matt Veach (11-0-0)
Originally slated to square off with fellow Jersey native Kurt Pellegrino, title threat Frankie “The Answer” Edgar will instead meet H.I.T. Squad member Matt Veach.
Much like the Hamill – Jones tilt, both Edgar and Veach are high-level wrestlers, which could certainly lead to a stalemate and a standup battle nobody would complain about.
Here’s the thing: Frankie Edgar has wins over Sean Sherk, Hermes Franca, Spencer Fisher and Tyson Griffin.
Now he’s stepping in against a youngster who earned his first UFC victory in February over Matt Grice.
Tomorrow, we look at the battle to decide The Ultimate Fighter, “Meathead vs. Big Baby” and the official debut of Kimbo Slice.
