UFC 126 Prediction: Anderson Silva VS. Vitor Belfort

Alright guys, this is my second article regarding predictions for the next UFC event featuring one of my favorite fighters with matrix like abilities who has never lost a single fight in his UFC career verses a very strong, quick, and vicious Vitor Belfort.

While Anderson Silva in my opinion is probably number 2 when it comes to being elusive, in my opinion (Machida being number 1), I would consider him to be number 1 when it comes to precision with his striking and agility. I know a lot of people don’t like him for his behavior and egoism from his previous matches, however, I believe some it has to do with conning fighters into being sloppy and aggressive when they retaliate to his condescending behavior. Although I am not a fan of such display, you have to give the man credit for his amazing abilities.

If Vitor Belfort is to win this fight, I believe that it will be due to a KO and not a submission. The KO will only result if Silva takes this fight lightly and does not fight the way he has in his initial fights in the UFC. You must remember that Silva has an amazing sense of distance. Many times you will notice that Silva drop his hands and dodge punches when he senses that his opponent is weak and gets a good feel for their reach. This is why, it always takes a little while for Silva to begin fighting his opponents, so that he can feel them out and gauge distance. I believe that Belfort will instantly try to close the distance before catching any of Silva’s punches or kicks, however, Silva will be weary and try to keep his distance at all times.

Vitor has an advantage over Silva only in terms of power; however, I must discredit his ability to strike with precision. Although I have noticed improvement from Vitor from his earlier fight days when he would unleash a fury of punches until he knocked out his opponents, I do not think this will be a good way to deal with Anderson. If Vitor tries this on Silva, he will get caught into a submission trap. In order for Vitor to win, he must be aggressive in closing the distance and go for the KO via ground and pound. Being on the ground can serve as an advantage to Vitor as he is stronger than Silva and will keep him at bay with any striking/kick attempts he would have standing up.

I don’t think this fight will go to the ground as Anderson Silva has a great sense of timing and figuring out his opponents combinations. He will not allow for Vitor to close in on him to drag him down. Although Vitor may seem devastatingly overwhelming to other fighters, I believe that Silva will have figured out Victor’s style and technique and put an end to this fight.

My Prediction: Silva will def. Vitor in the 2nd Round by KO.

By: Denish Ghayal