Issue 153

April 2017

Three experts breakdown an exciting crossroads fight between elite middleweights.

MICHAEL BISPING - UFC MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION

I really wanted to fight Weidman, but he lost to Romero after losing to Rockhold.

He’s had two bad losses, both by knockout, so he’s not getting a title shot any time soon. Mousasi is on a tear right now. He’s demolishing everybody and has got to be close to a title shot. So for Mousasi, this is the final scalp to really push for his shot at the title. I admire Weidman’s courage in taking this fight, but if he loses – possibly by stoppage –he’s really in trouble.

It could mean the end of his career. Weidman loses to Gegard Mousasi. It’s a bad fight for him.

MAX HOLLOWAY - INTERIM UFC FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPION

I like this fight. It’s a really tough one to call too. Mousasi looks better than ever. He’s had some big wins.

His standup has looked excellent. Weidman has the edge in the grappling but he’s struggled with his fitness. If he can get hold of Mousasi and take him down then Weidman can outwork him and win.

Mousasi has a habit of sleeping when he’s on the ground and he’s suffered for it in the past. But if he can get the fight back on the feet quickly he’s got the edge.

BRIAN MARTIN GALLACHER - HEAD COACH, SCOTTISH HIT SQUAD

I think Weidman just takes it. He’s better on the ground, his wrestling is much better and his striking is that bit crisper.

I like Mousasi, who has a habit of going to sleep on the ground, but is looking really good with his hands right now. Weidman is in his home state and even though he’s been knocked out in his last couple of fights he always turns up confident.

He knows he has better abilities and with the home support behind him, I expect a vintage performance.

VERDICT MOUSASI VIA SPLIT DECISION

Despite Weidman’s imposing ground game, two of our three fight gurus are tipping Mousasi to march on towards a title shot.