UFC 94 Picks: Thiago Silva vs. Lyoto Machida

January 30, 2009 / / /

thiago-silva-ufc-94.jpgThiago Silva
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs.
Age: 26
Record: 13-0

You've seen all the UFC video promos right? The one where Joe Rogan says Thiago Silva "is a straight up murderer"? Yeah, well that basically sums it up. Thiago Silva is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blackbelt who knocks people out. He's super aggressive and we still haven't really seen what he has to offer on the ground (though on paper he's got the advantage). Unfortunately, his aggressive style plays directly into Lyoto Machida's counter-striking style. If he can manage to actually engage Machida he'll have a chance, but nobody has been able to do it yet and I doubt Thiago Silva will either.

lyoto-machida.jpgLyoto "The Dragon" Machida
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 205 lbs.
Age: 26
Record: 13-0

Lyoto Machida is the next step in MMA. Most fighters (Thiago Silva included) are content to just jump into the fray and exchange blows. Lyoto Machida, on the other hand, has come to the conclusion that getting hit sucks. So, well, he doesn't. What many consider boring is a tactical display of precision striking and damage avoidance. He forces you to play his game and that's exactly what he'll do to Thiago Silva.

THE BOTTOM LINE
You just can't bet against Lyoto Machida. He picks opponents apart and makes them look like a fool doing so. If he can manage to avoid Thiago Silva's initial onslaught, he'll end up controlling the fight and win another decisive decision. You know, assuming Thiago Silva doesn't bring a knife to the fight and actually start murdering people.