UFC 114: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira - “Setting the Trap”

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira to take on Jason Brilz at UFC 114 on May 29

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After earning a 1st round stoppage over Luiz Cane, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira was due for a significant jump up in competition. That looked to be true after former LHW champ, Forrest Griffin was announced as his UFC 114 opponent. However, Forrest had to pull out because of an injury, and in his place was Jason Brilz, an under-the-radar light heavyweight who has a solid skill-set.

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A jump up in competition? Well, not really, but, it remains a tough task nonetheless. Brilz may not bring the fan fare that Griffin would have, but he does bring an 18-2 record and a 3-1 mark in the UFC. Brilz, not Nogueira, has taken the significant step up in competition.

Nogueira is now in a tough situation. He is pitted against a dangerous opponent, who despite a .750 winning percentage in the UFC, is a virtual unknown. If “Little Nog” sticks to what he does best, then he should come out of this May 29 th bout with a smile.

On the feet there aren’t too many LHW’s that are better at striking than Little Nog. He is technical in his approach and precise with his punches. He also adds a ton of power with his technical game. He is definitely a fighter who will let you know that you are in a fight. His opponents rarely come out of the bout without a damaged body and face.

Maybe the only time a “Little Nog” opponent comes out looking fresh, is if they decide to take him to the ground and that is maybe even more dangerous. Nogueira is a real BJJ black belt, and one who tightens his skills up with the Black House. The 33 year-old Brazilian has six career submission victories; among them include Dan Henderson and Kazuhiro Nakamura. If Brilz falls to the ground, it is almost a given that he will have to tap out or pass out. Nogueira rarely looks for takedowns, but if this one gets to the canvas, I don’t expect it to last long.

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Nogueira is enjoying a nice stretch, winning six consecutive fights and earning consideration as a LHW title contender. While the title may be a couple of fights away, Nogueira must not fall into a trap with Jason Brilz. He needs to bring his “A” game and take care of Brilz before he thinks about anything down the road. If he takes care of Brilz, he will get his shot at a big-name opponent and possibly the LHW title.

By Nick Russell
ProFighting-fans.com Senior MMA Staff Writer