UFC Fight Night 58: The Madman’s Predictions

2014 is coming to an end of the UFC’s final event of the year is this Saturday, December, 20th at the Ginasio Jose Correa in Barueri, Brazil. UFC Fight Night: Machida vs. Dollaway isn’t the UFC’s best card of the year by a long shot, but there are some great showcase fights for some of the organization’s top Brazilian talent.

Generally the UFC’s final event of the year is one to remember, but much like most of 2014 for the UFC as a whole, this seems like one to forget. Outside of the landmark Reebok deal, 2014 has been a less than stellar year for the organization; injuries ravaged numerous events, viewership is down and now the UFC has a class action antitrust lawsuit to contend with.

By the looks of their early schedule, 2015 will be a much better year for the promotion, but that doesn’t help the bitter taste that this event will leave in the mouths of many fans. Enough ranting, let’s get to some predictions.

Antonio Carlos Junior vs. Patrick Cummins

In this light heavyweight bout between accomplished grapplers Junior and Cummins, fans will be treated to easily the most interesting bout on the card. Junior is coming off of his TUF Brazil 3 heavyweight tournament victory and he is making his light heavyweight debut. Cummins on the other hand is looking to build on his impressive back-to-back victories in the Octagon.

While both men are tremendous grapplers Cummins’ wrestling will be the difference maker in this bout. He will be able to dictate where this fight takes place and because his striking is more refined, he should pick up the victory. Regardless of what happens, Junior’s future in the UFC is very bright.

Prediction: Cummins via second round TKO

Renan Barao vs. Mitch Gagnon

In the co-main event of the evening, former UFC bantamweight champion Barao looks to get back in the win column against Gagnon. Gagnon is heading into this bout riding a four fight win streak, but he is out of his depth here.

Barao is still one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world and he is heading into this bout to prove just that. A hungry and motivated Barao is something no bantamweight in the world wants to deal with. Look for him to win in spectacular fashion.

Prediction: Barao via second round Submission

Lyoto Machida vs. C.B. Dollaway

In the main event of the evening, a surging Dollaway looks to speed up his rankings assent with a win over former UFC light heavyweight champion and middleweight title challenger Machida. But while Dollaway has looked extremely good in his last two outings, he is not a true elite in the sport and Machida will drive that fact home on Saturday night.

Look for Machida to control the distance and pick Dollaway apart on the feet. Dollaway will try to get the bout to the ground, but Machida will be able to keep it on the feet. After Machida batters him and breaks his will, his finish will come.

Prediction: Machida via third round KO