UFC on Fox Johnson VS. Bader

By Scott Beers @skottbeers
Jan 22, 2016, 7:00pm

Anthony Johnson #2 vs. Ryan Bader #4

Presuming Jon Jones fights Daniel Cormier for the title before summer, this fight will likely decide who fights the winner of that for the light heavyweight title. If Bader can implement a grappling heavy game plan he certainly has the advantage, where Johnson will be a nightmare standing. I’m curious to see if Johnson can pace himself while defending takedowns, that’s what he needs to show to prove he has any chance against Jon Jones or even Cormier again. I’m fairly certain it will go one of two ways. Rather Johnson finishes Bader early, or Bader tires Johnson in a decision. I do believe the betting odds should be closer than what is currently a 5-1 favorite in Anthony Johnson.

Pick: Bader Decision (5-1 underdog)

Ben Rothwell #7 vs. Josh Barnett #8

Barnett once held the UFC heavyweight championship, and has been fighting professionally for nearly 20 years. It’s impressive to see him still close to the top. Rothwell now riding his first three fight win streak inside the octagon now looks to cement himself as a potential title contender at heavyweight. Rothwell is one of few fighters in this weight class that have to cut weight to make the 265 lb. limit, making him dangerous for anyone. This fight looks similar to the main event, as Ben has all the power and Barnett is the superior grappler. I sense this fight will turn out similar to the main event. Barnett grinds down Rothwell for an upset victory.

Pick: Barnett Decision (underdog)

Iuri Alcantara #14 vs. Jimmie Rivera NR

Usually these big Fox cards feature all fights with contenders inside the top ten. Jimmie Rivera is a bit of a prospect as he’s won 17 fights straight. But he’s coming off a split decision victory against an unknown preliminary fighter. It’s rather disappointing to see these feature fights go to waste. I don’t care who wins, and neither should you.

Pick: none

Sage Northcutt vs. Bryan Barberena

Super Sage Northcutt makes his return to welterweight after a successful 2-0 stint at lightweight in the UFC. It is currently unclear why he’s moving to 170 lbs, but expect to see him just as ripped. He’s 19 years old still, with two finishes in the UFC. This guy is getting paid nearly $100k per fight simply due to the hype. He’s oddly matched up with guys who have horrible physiques and muscle structure in each fight in the UFC. Perhaps to contrast his freakish ability, which you’ll likely see once again. His late replacement opponent, Bryan Barberena. A rather unknown fighter with a 1-1 UFC record at lightweight. Will Northcutt be shut down early in his career, or will he stampede his way forward by winning his 3rd fight in less than four months? I expect he’ll be fed wounded animals for the next year or two. It’s hard to imagine him being a champion while still pursuing his bachelor’s degree. Northcutt will win, somehow, some way.

Pick: Northcutt (favorite)