Mixed Martial Arts promotion Strikeforce brings a solid fight card to Florida highlighted by Dream champion Marius Zaromskis and the ever dangerous Nick Diaz. Former standout Robbie Lawler, known for his heavy hands and aggressive fighting style, meets Melvin Manhoef who has been devastating competition in Japan. Women’s MMA title holder, Cris ‘Cyborg’ Santos defends her title, while entertaining journeyman Joe Riggs returns to MMA as a host of other fighters, including former WWE star Bobby Lashley contend for victory.
Nick Diaz vs. Marius Zaromskis
Nick Diaz (20 Wins – 7 Losses – No Contest) is known for his crisp boxing and his Brazilian Jiu – Jitsu. Training under Cesar Gracie and alongside Strikeforce champion Jake Shields and his brother, UFC standout Nate Diaz, Nick has the tools of a well rounded MMA fighter, and has finished opponents in 17 of his 20 wins. While lacking great knockout power, his work rate and ability to deliver several punches without gassing make him incredibly formidable. Diaz possesses great conditioning and can set the pace of the fight. Although Nick Diaz had mixed success in the UFC, he has wins over MMA legends Frank Shamrock and Takanori Gomi to his credit.
Marius Zaromskis (13 Wins – 3 Losses) made the highlight reel with his knockouts of legend Hayato Sakurai and Jason High by high kick to claim the Dream Welterweight Grand Prix Championship title. His unorthodox and exciting fighting style, which has included a back flip guard pass attempt, as well as his dangerous striking make him a dynamic fighter. Zaromskis’ striking combinations, agility, and timing have enabled him to finish fights quickly.
Diaz and Zaromskis will look to test their stand up with each other with whomever can set the pace dominating. If Zaromskis can force Diaz into a counter strike strategy, he has the tools he needs to set up his kicks which have defeated many opponents. For Diaz to win he needs to bring the fight to the ground where he will have a distinct advantage. Diaz has the wrestling and submission skills to submit Zaromskis, but whether he can close the distance to the grappling range unscathed remains to be scene, and should be interesting to watch. Look for Diaz to take a decision victory.
Robbie Lawler vs. Melvin Manhoef
UFC veteran Robbie Lawler (16 Wins – 5 Losses) is known for his punching power with 13 of his wins coming through knockout. He has a significant victory over Frank Trigg, but has often lacked the game plan necessary to dominate other opponents. Although his striking discipline has improved, his bread and butter have been wide, looping strikes. An emotional fighter, he fights with strong intensity and is often willing to exchange strikes.
Melvin Manhoef (24 Wins – 6 Losses – 1 Draw) is a K -1 fighter with a Muay Thai Kickboxing style. Known for his aggression and knockout power, 23 of his 24 wins have come through knockout. He possess a strong advantage in striking, and has been an incredibly active fighter, fighting in both K – 1 and Dream. Although Manhoef’s grappling needs improvement, he has the explosive athleticism and power to get back to his feet. Despite this he has shown himself to be open to submissions in his previous fights.
As a former product of UFC champions Pat Miletich and a training partner of Matt Hughes, Robbie Lawler possesses an advantage in wrestling and submission. If he can take Manhoef down, he will be able to quickly submit him. However, fights begin standing, and Lawler will look to test his striking against Manhoef, leaving Manhoef with another knockout victory in the first round.
Cris ‘Cyborg’ Santos vs. Marloes Coenen
Cris ‘Cyborg’ Santos (8 Wins – 1 Loss) defends her Strikeforce Women’s MMA title against Marloes Coenen (17 Wins – 3 Losses) after her dominating victory over Gina Carano. Santos is known for her aggressive style and strong striking ability. She effectively out worked Carano, setting the pace of the fight and showing good take down defense in her victory. Coenen strengths lie in her submission skills and has spent her career fighting in Japan which has a stronger circuit for women’s MMA. Santos possesses an advantage in strength and striking, and Coenen will look to take the fight to the ground. Look for Cris ‘Cyborg’ Santos to take a first round knockout victory.
Strikeforce MMA On Showtime
Strikeforce and Japanese promotion Dream are staging exciting fights and introducing fans to some of the big names of Japanese MMA such Melvin Manhoef, Marius Zaromskis, and Gegard Mousasi. The undercard has intriguing matchups with Joe Riggs meeting Jay Hieron. Look for the well rounded Riggs to add to his string of recent victories. WWE star turned MMA prospect Bobby Lashley is also set to fight, possibly meeting former UFC fighter Wes Sims.
Strikeforce will be held January 30, 2010 in Sunrise, Florida and will air on Showtime at 10 PM EST.
Brian Jungwiwattanaporn - Living an eclectic life, Brian has found online writing a great way to share and explore his interests. Having recently complete a ...
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