Given the different fight philosophies, the question here is, Which man will bend first? Silva is an aggressive fighter, but he may tone it down so as not to open himself for counter-shots. Or Machida may be goaded into a war. Neither scenario seems very probable. With both men unbeaten, they trust in their abilities, and the match will go as expected, with Silva likely pushing the pace, sometimes connecting, other times having his aggression used against him.

Machida is a southpaw who uses that built-in advantage well, utilizing excellent footwork to step aside onrushes. Most of his attacks come with his lead foot planted outside of his opponent’s lead foot, thus moving him further from their dominant hand and putting his own closer to his target. No one’s been able to solve that riddle.

An X-factor worth noting is that Silva is coming off a back injury. The extent of the problem was never publicly revealed, but it could impact his explosiveness.

What’s at stake: Both men are trying to stay unbeaten and in contention for a title shot. Machida is a bit further up the ladder, so he has more to lose.

Likely outcome: Silva’s aggressiveness will likely play into Machida’s patience.

Prediction: Machida by unanimous decision

Stephan Bonnar vs. Jon Jones
Jones made his UFC debut last August with a surprising upset of Andre Gusmao, but his performance showed great potential. While Bonnar, with eight years of pro experience to Jones’ one, has much more ring time, Jones gives off that vibe that he’s something special and one to watch out for. He has a strong wrestling pedigree and a lanky frame that will give him a natural reach advantage on many opponents. Bonnar is the more polished striker, but lacks KO power. Jones showed innovative striking last time out. The danger spot for Jones will be on the ground, where Bonnar’s jiu-jitsu gives him a big edge. But if black-belt Gusmao couldn’t tap Jones, Bonnar won’t have an easy time either. Put this one on upset watch.
Prediction: Jones by unanimous decision

Karo Parisyan vs. Dong Hyun Kim
It’s been nine months since Parisyan’s last match, a TKO loss to Thiago Alves. Since then he suffered a back injury that kept him out of action. Both Parisyan and Kim have strong judo influences in their games. Kim is unbeaten at 11-0-1, but he needed a razor-close split-decision win in his last fight with Matt Brown to get there. While Parisyan’s back is still a question mark, it should be noted that he presents a big step up in competition for Kim.
Prediction: Parisyan by TKO

Nate Diaz vs. Clay Guida
Diaz has managed to outperform expectations nearly every time out, but Guida represents a different test for him. Guida can put him on the mat with his wrestling, but that’s where things get dicey. Five of Guida’s nine career losses come via submission, and Diaz is a wizard on the ground. If Guida can stay away from the sub, he’ll win a decision, but if not…
Prediction: Diaz by submission

Jon Fitch vs. Akihiro Gono
In his very last fight, Jon Fitch was fighting for the UFC welterweight title. This time around, he’s not even guaranteed TV time, which is a shame for one of the world’s best 170-pounders. Unlike many others, Fitch doesn’t seem the type to be affected by such a slight once he steps in the cage. Gono is a solid fighter but has trouble beating the division’s best. Fitch qualifies.
Prediction: Fitch by TKO

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