UFC 117: Thiago Alves - “Contrast of Styles”

Thiago Alves faces Jon Fitch in the UFC 117 co-main event on August 7th

> Don't miss our UFC 117 predictions and find the official UFC 117 results after the fights are complete here at Pro Fighting Fans!

It looks as if it will finally go down; a well earned rematch for Thiago “Pitbull” Alves against top-notch welterweight Jon Fitch is now scheduled for UFC 117 and will take place next month. It seems to be just the right time, especially after having their UFC 107 and UFC 111 bouts called off due to injuries suffered by Alves.

Check out the awesome designs and MMA fighter signature shirts for current and past UFC fighters online at Intimidation Clothing!

The “Pitbull” will be the slight underdog, as Fitch comes in riding the strength of a four fight winning streak and has won 9 of 10 since their Ultimate Fight Night 5 match-up in June 2006. On the other hand, Alves hasn’t fought since losing to George St. Pierre last July at UFC 100 for the 170-lb. title; but he has been on a streak on his own, he has won 7 of 8 since their first bout.

For Thiago Alves, it isn’t going to be the physical aspect that will present the biggest challenges; it will be the mental aspect that will make it tough. Alves has already proven that he has the physical tools, as is evidence of his 10 career (T)KO’s, but still has to demonstrate that he can overcome the mental challenges that will accompany him inside the octagon next month. It has been less than five months since Alves was removed from the UFC 111 fight card due to a discovery of an arteriovenous malformation in the brain found during a pre-fight CAT scan. The problem was first thought to be a career threatening one, however days after he was taken off the UFC 111 main card, he underwent successful corrective surgery and it was announced he would be allowed to resume his career inside the octagon.

Now that all of that is behind him, the “Pitbull” will need more than a positive mental outlook to get by Jon Fitch. Fitch presents many problems, but relies primarily on his wrestling and ground and pound to control his opponents. While he is not as exciting as others in the 170-lb. division, Fitch’s style is effective nevertheless. Even though the former Purdue wrestler has failed to finish any of his last 6 opponents, he has won an amazing 19 of his past 20 contests, which is the most important aspect.

> Look to Pro Fighting Fans for the official UFC 117 fight results after the fights are complete and check out the expanded selection of UFC brand clothing & merchandise available online!

Many were surprised the first time around when Fitch used an up kick to daze Alves and then strikes to finish him off. This time around, both fighters are totally different. Fitch has adopted a game plan that minimizes his mistakes and one that doesn’t allow him to take many risks. Alves, on the other hand, tries to push the pace and take it to his opponents with his aggressive offense. With this contrast in styles, it’s hard to predict how this bout will go down. One thing is for certain, it’s a great time to revisit this rematch, as both fighters are on top of the division. A victory may just vault the winner into another possible title shot, however with the recent addition of Jake Shields; it’s hard to say who will get the next crack. It looks as if the welterweight division just got a lot more interesting, and again, the UFC is putting the best possible fights together.

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