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Simpson vs. Robertson
Welterweights
Aaron Simpson (11-3, 6-3 UFC) vs. Kenny Robertson (11-1, 0-1 UFC)
The Matchup: Simpson had the chance to make a serious statement in his UFC welterweight debut by knocking off Jon Fitch, but the American Kickboxing Academy stalwart dropped off the card after suffering a knee injury in training. Taking his place is Robertson, a man the UFC released after just a single bout in 2011. These are different times, however, and injuries and an ever-growing schedule mean new opportunities for the previously scorned.
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In addition to having more experience against top-flight competition, “A-Train” has the ability to dictate the terms of the matchup. The Power MMA Team product can do damage with a solid right hand before moving in close, where he can punish Robertson with dirty boxing in the clinch. Simpson is also versatile in his takedowns, with a full complement of techniques with which to get Robertson to the canvas.
Robertson must hope that Simpson struggles with the weight cut and is drained on fight night. Then it becomes a drawn-out affair with Robertson turning the tide in the second half of the contest. Considering Simpson’s background, this is not a likely scenario. That leaves Robertson hoping that he can connect with something spectacular like the spinning-back fist that knocked out Lucio Linhares in October.
The Pick: Winning this bout will not do as much for Simpson as beating Fitch would, but it does allow him to ease into the division. Simpson wins by second-round TKO.
Next Fight » Karlos Vemola vs. Francis Carmont
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