Mixed martial arts stars are usually comprised of a few specific qualities. They have the ability to win big matches and win them in stylish fashion. These men and women also need to have a look that captures the attention of fans watching the sport. Luke Rockhold is a man with both of those qualities. And this weekend he’s due to face Lyoto Machida in what may be his biggest opportunity to get a shot at the UFC middleweight title. Rockhold is on the cusp of becoming a major attraction. The former Strikeforce champion has put together stellar performances for most of his career. But he is in need of one more when he steps foot in Newark, New Jersey for UFC on Fox 15.
On paper, Rockhold vs. Machida is one of the most compelling fights that the UFC has put together in quite a while. These two men have intriguing styles that should play well off of one another. Rockhold is aggressive in nearly every area of his game. Both his strikes and submission skills are based on diversity and confusing opponents with different angles. Machida, on the other hand, is perhaps the best counter striker to ever compete in the Octagon. His ability to dart in and out while landing crisp shots is difficult for any athlete to match. Machida is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (even though he has not displayed those skills often in this phase of his career).
This main event is Rockhold’s moment to make a huge jump in the UFC’s middleweight rankings. Machida recently fought champion Chris Weidman, which may rule him out of receiving another shot with a victory, but he represents one of the best wins a middleweight could add to his resume right now.
Many feel that Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza, who Rockhold defeated back in 2011, should be next in line, but he is facing a different situation. Jacare was originally slated to fight Yoel Romero, but Romero suffered a knee injury which canceled this fight for the second time. Chris Camozzi has stepped in on late notice, but Camozzi is far from contender material. In fact, he was cut from the promotion in October. Even though a win in the Octagon is always valuable, a victory over Machida would carry much more weight than one over Camozzi.
Rockhold also fits into the type of aesthetic that the UFC likes to present to the public. That is another quality that he could use to jump to the front of the line. It has happened before in the sport, and few would be surprised to see it happen again.
As for the fight itself, movement is going to be key. If Rockhold can limit Machida’s movement and keep him backed against the cage, he will be able to limit the Brazilian’s striking attack. However, if Machida is allowed to flow in the middle of the cage, he will have opportunities to counter many of Rockhold’s attacks.
Luke Rockhold vs. Lyoto Machida has the potential to be one of the best fights this year. And the UFC on Fox 15 main event has the potential to be a key moment in Rockhold’s career. A victory could be the launching point for Rockhold’s MMA stardom. The stage is set, but he still needs to put on a performance that makes makes fans take notice. If Rockhold can do that, then he’ll earn his shine.
• Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold
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UFC on FOX 15: Machida vs. Rockhold is due to take place on April 18, 2015 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
Click the stars to rate how good you think UFC on Fox 15 will be.
