Why the clock will not expire before Munoz vs. Leben at UFC 138
This weekend UFC 138 marks an important change in UFC history, for the first time ever all main event fights will be able to go into deep water and be five rounds. This is a perfect example of both fans and fighters getting their chance for more exciting fights to continue on. The UFC has crammed a free on TV fight card with many newly signed prospects and two seasoned vets to drive the fights into the history books. Mark Munoz will meet Chris Leben in the first five round non title fight, but don’t expect it to fill its allotted slot.
Chris Leben has faded in many of his fights that went just three rounds and is 5-3 in fights going to decision. Both Bisping and Akiyama exposed his cardio against a fast paced fight where he heavily slowed in both fights as they pressed on. He is the type that will take you out of the fight, or leave himself out there to go out on his shield. This is incredibly exciting, but not the type of fighter who is going to grind out a five rounder any time soon, especially at the ripe young age of 31.
Mark Munoz has also shown his woes in lengthy fights and could wind up with the same fate as Aaron Simpson if he is too concentrated on the takedown early in the fight. Munoz has fallen the victim of strikes and his fight with Maia has shown that he can still be hit while he’s working the takedown. Munoz also slows as the fight goes on mostly due to his crazy grappling pace and gorilla style ground and pound.
This fight is a product of great matchmaking but not timing. There is little to no chance this fight will be a five round barn burner like some WEC or lighter weight guys have delivered but in the end it will still be a great fight for free TV. Usually people curse fights by saying that there is “no way” they will go the distance but in this case it’s not due to happen, and if it does waves of crowd boos will follow. This is a perfect fight for the fans wanting a finish, and not for the ones wanting a five round war.
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About the Author (Author Profile)
A college student residing in Arizona, coming off of active duty and continuing to work for the government. I hold a black belt in Hapkido, and have high school wrestling experience paired with multiple grappling tournaments. I spent six months training Authentic Muay Thai and now I am currently enrolling in Gracie B.J.J/MMA this week. I plan on starting my amateur fighting Career sometime late this year to early next year and also plan on entering B.J.J. tournaments through the year.Subscribe
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