UFC Fight Night 65: Miocic vs. Hunt Head-to-Toe Breakdown

On Sunday, May 10, 2015, the UFC heads to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre in Adelaide, Australia, for UFC Fight Night 65. In the main event of the evening, fans will be treated to a heavyweight class between Stipe Miocic and Mark Hunt.

Even though Hunt is a fan favorite everywhere he goes, fighting in front of an audience from down under the atmosphere should be electric. But Miocic has really come into his own as a fighter over the last 18 months. Miocic has the physical tools to be an elite force in the division.

With both men coming off of disappointing losses in their last bouts, this is a pivotal fight for both Hunt and Miocic. The UFC heavyweight division is wide open and anyone in the top five is only ever one win away from a potential title shot.

Striking

Miocic and Hunt are strikers at their core and this should be an exciting contest on the feet. Even though he is former K-1 competitor, Hunt doesn’t get the great he deserves for his technical ability. He knows how to time his punches and once he hits you it’s all over. While Miocic doesn’t have Hunt’s raw power, but he does have a huge athletic advantage.

Slight Advantage: Hunt

Grappling

If there are any grappling exchanges in this bout, then Miocic should have the upper hand. As a former NCAA Division I wrestler, Miocic has some solid grappling chops. If he can work that into his game plan against Hunt, he could put the Super Samoan into some trouble.

Advantage: Miocic

Submissions

Neither Hunt nor Miocic are known for their submission skills. In fact, the long submission victory on Miocic’s record is not a true submission as his opponent submitted due to leg kicks. But Hunt has been submitted six times over the course of his career.

Advantage: Miocic

X Factors

Hunt’s X Factor is no secret; it’s his brutal power. Hunt could probably knock out a grizzly bear with an uppercut. When he touches an opponent’s chin the lights go out. Hunt has a level of power other fighters just can’t train for.
Miocic’s X Factor heading into Sunday is athleticism. A former college wrestler and baseball player, Miocic will have a huge athletic advantage in this fight. If he can use his movement and length to keep Hunt on the outside and then mix in some takedowns, he could walk away with a nice victory.

Prediction: Miocic by third round submission