UFC 86 Predictions

Here are this blogs predictions of the UFC 86 Fights:

Josh Koscheck Vs. Chris Lytle
This will be a great fight between two very talented welterweight contenders. Both fighters were a part of TUF in different seasons.

I see Koscheck being able to over power Lytle and use his wrestling to stay on top most of the fight. Koscheck will score points with take-downs and a few slams to win by a split decision.

Tyson Griffin Vs. Marcus Aurelio
This will be an exciting match-up between a jiu-jitsu expert Marcus Aurelio taking on a heavy handed and great wrestler in Tyson Griffin. Expect this fight to be action packed and to go back and forth. I feel Aurelio, a (+275) underdog pulling off the upset Saturday.

Aurelio at (+280) is just too good to pass up. I’m taking Aurelio by a third round submission victory.

Patrick Cote vs. Ricardo Almeida
This fight could possibly be for a shot or next in line to take on Anderson Silva. They are both coming off a rally of impressive wins. Expect to see what both fighters are capable of putting together in the octagon come Saturday night.

I don’t see Cote pulling it off. Almeida is more well-rounded and more experienced. I’m taking Almeida for another upset of the night with a hard fought 3rd round submission victory.

Jorge Gurgel Vs. Cole Miller
Jorge Gurgel (12-3) will take on fellow TUF alumni Cole Miller (13-3). This should be an exciting match between to men with great submission skills. People have been skeptical about Gurgel and fighting in the UFC because of his friendship with Rich Franklin. Saturday will be his chance to prove MMA fans wrong.

Most of the advantages are in Miller’s favor against Gurgel on Saturday. Unless Gurgel can surprisingly pull of a KO on Miller, I see Miller winning a 3rd round submission victory.