World Series of Fighting 5 Preview

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Heavyweights

Rolles Gracie (8-1, 0-0 WSOF) vs. Derrick Mehmen (15-5, 0-0 WSOF)

The Matchup: Gracie is 5-0 since gassing badly in the second round against Joey Beltran in his lone UFC appearance, but do not be deceived. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt’s success has come largely against opposition that was undersized, overmatched or both. While Gracie has claimed that an injury suffered during training camp was to blame for his lackluster showing versus Beltran, he has not really been tested since then.

That should change against Mehmen, an American Top Team-based wrestler who has faced solid competition during his professional career. Mehman has won three straight since losing a unanimous verdict to Gian Villante at Strikeforce “Barnett vs. Cormier” in May 2012 in a bout in which Mehman was victimized repeatedly by right hands and leg kicks. “Caveman” struggles when faced with a superior striker who can nullify his takedowns, but if he can use his wrestling to remain upright against Gracie, he has a good chance of wearing down his opponent as the bout progresses.

Gracie’s striking consists primarily of straight punches, which he uses to move into clinch range. In addition to his BJJ black belt, Gracie’s judo skills give him a number of ways to get the fight to the floor. By itself, his takedown shot is not especially troublesome because he has few means by which to disguise his intentions; it is in the clinch where he will most likely do his best work against Mehman. Gracie will have the size edge against Mehman, a natural light heavyweight, but if the former Strikeforce talent can drain his foe’s gas tank by defending takedowns, he should have opportunities to do damage in the second half of the fight.

Mehman’s standup is not polished, by any means. He throws with ill-intent but often misses wildly, leaving opportunities for timely counters or level changes. If Gracie can capitalize and move into top position, where his ability to advance position and hunt for submissions is about what one would expect for someone bearing his name, Mehman will be in trouble.

The Pick: After Gracie tires, Mehman blends solid defensive wrestling with heavy-handed striking and takedowns to win via decision or late TKO.

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