The Ultimate Fighting Championship's light-heavyweight champion, Jon Jones, will defend his title for the fourth time in less than a year at UFC 152. The event will be held on Sept. 22, at the Air Canada Centre in Toronto, Canada. Here are my predictions for the entire UFC 152 fight card:
Jon Jones versus Vitor Belfort
Jones recently became the most hated fighter in MMA because of his decision to turn down a bout against Chael Sonnen (as a last minute replacement for Dan Henderson in an attempt to save the cancelled Sept. 1 fight card), and he probably won't be received well by fans when he steps into the Octagon at UFC 152. However, Jones has never been embraced by UFC fans, so I don't think the hostility will affect his performance. He's better than Belfort in virtually every aspect of MMA, and I expect him to put on a dominant performance against the "Phenom." Jones wins via TKO.Joseph Benavidez versus Demetrious Johnson
The first flyweight champion in UFC history will be determined when these two square up inside the Octagon. Both are well-rounded fighters, and I expect fireworks when the two collide. Benavidez is the favorite going into the fight, but I think Johnson has enough momentum to pull off the upset. Tough fight to call, but I think Johnson's speed will guide him to victory. "Mighty Mouse" wins via decision.Michael Bisping versus Brian Stann
Stann is a dangerous striker, but that probably won't be enough to get him past Bisping. The brash Brit has more weapons in his arsenal, and he should be fine as long as he doesn't stand and trade with Stann. Bisping wins via submission.Matt Hamill versus Roger Hollett
After giving retirement a try, Hamill will make his return at UFC 152. Hollett is currently on a five-fight win-streak, but he hasn't faced anyone on Hamill's level yet. "The Hammer" should be able to control the fight with his wrestling, and punish Hollett on the ground. Hamill wins via TKO.Cub Swanson versus Charles Oliveira
Oliveira remains undefeated in the UFC's featherweight division, and I expect that trend to continue. Swanson is a solid featherweight, but I don't think he'll be able to fend off the Brazilian's submissions. Oliveira wins via submission.Undercard:
Igor Pokrajac defeats Vinny Magalhães
Evan Dunham defeats TJ Grant
Lance Benoist defeats Sean Pierson
Jimy Hettes defeats Marcus Brimage
Simeon Thoresen defeats Seth Baczynski
Mitch Gagnon defeats Walel Watson
Charlie Brenneman defeats Kyle Noke
David is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and boxing practitioner that has watched and studied MMA for the past 7 years. Follow him on twitter @davidkingwriter and check out his blog.
Sources:
Fight and fighter information from Sherdog.com
More from the Yahoo! Contributor Network:
Marquez Questions Manny Pacquiao's Heart
Matt Mitrione Disses Jon Jones, Wants a Shot at "Bones"
50 Cent Opens Up About Relationship with Floyd Mayweather
Dana White Refuses to Take Responsibility for Failed UFC 151 Fight Card
Martinez Survives Brutal 12th Round Against Chavez Jr, Captures WBC Middleweight Title
