Chuck Liddell “The Ice Man” (21-7-0)
vs. Rich Franklin “Ace” (27-5-0):
Since Tito Ortiz was forced to pull out of this fight due to injury, Rich “Scary Jim Carey” Franklin has agreed to fill in. Neither one of these guys have fought in a while and both are coming off loses. Maybe it’s just me but if you have watched The Ultimate Fighter this year it sure seems as if Liddell is a little punch drunk. He just doesn’t seem like he is all there. A couple of years ago I would have picked Liddell without a doubt but I think Scary Jim takes this one. He is still mentally sharp. This will be the last feature fight for the loser of this fight’s career. I pick Ace by TKO in the 2nd round.
Mirko Cro Cop (26-7-2) vs. Pat Barry (5-1-0):
Cro Cop has been less than stellar since coming from Pride to the UFC. I’m not sure if it’s the cage or what but he hasn’t been the same. Barry on the other hand has been extremely exciting and has made quite a name for himself. Cro Cop will have the advantage with the reach and more technical striking but Barry has less battle wounds and 5 years of youth. Barry will catch Cro Cop late in the first and will pull off the KO victory.
Paulo Thiago (13-1-0) vs. Martin Kampmann (16-3-0):
This one could have fight of the night potential. Thiago is a powerful striker with excellent submission skills. Kampmann is well rounded and is very salty on the ground. Both guys are tough as hell and will slug it out. I don’t think there will be too many dull moments in this fight but I do see it going to a decision. Kampmann will pull off the decision in an exciting fight just because he looks tougher.
