Evans vs. Machida – Not Even Dana White Can Stop “The Dragon”

The main event of UFC 98 pits one of the fastest strikers to ever hit the ring, with one of its most strategic tacticians. Lyoto Machida has been the bane of mixed martial arts ever since exploding on to the scene with a decisive victory over the lippy Tito Ortiz. That fight marked the beginning of the end for Ortiz, and it could very well spell the end for Rashad Evans’ title reign.

Not many people are fans of Machida because, for the most part, he’s been boring. At 14-0 SU, he’s won eight fights by decision. Machida is a hit-and-run counter puncher who doesn’t like to engage his opponents. He waits for them to make mistakes and really makes them pay. Thiago Silva let his guard down with one second to go in the first round of his fight with Machida and got caught on the chin with a knockout.

That fight propelled Machida in to the spotlight, and everyone knew it was only a matter a time before the brilliant karate specialist fought for the belt. But too many guys stood in his way, and Rampage Jackson’s unexpected jaw surgery pulled him from UFC 98 betting. Enter “The Dragon”, and Evans’ worst nightmare.

Rashad Evans, the second victor of “The Ultimate Fighter”, is a cocky fighter. Everyone knows that; it’s why some fans despise him, and others love him. But if Evans saunters in to this matchup underestimating Machida, he’s going to pay dearly. So will Evans’ betting detractors.

Rashad Evans (+150) vs. Lyoto Machida (-200)

Saturday, May 23rd — UFC 98 — 10:00pm EST

UFC Betting Trend To Watch: Machida is 14-0 SU

Machida wasn’t even supposed to be in this fight, and now he’s a favorite. Why is that? Because everyone thinks that Evans is due to get knocked out. He’s been jawing the UFC community every since he knocked out the legend, Chuck Liddell. That kind of bravado, and that kind of attitude doesn’t sit well with a guy like Machida who prides himself on both discipline and study.

The tape will tell one glaring detail about Evans. He’s a counter-puncher by nature, relying on his fast reflexes and quick hands to catch guys off guard when they try to attack. As he maps guys out, Evans gets himself off to a slow start. If that’s the case, then Machida will get the nod on the judge’s cards early. If Evans goes in to panic mode and gets aggressive, Machida will be ready to unleash hell on Evans.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m not discounting Evans’ talent. But Machida comes from a background where he studies and dissects everyone he fights. It’s why he’s undefeated. He understands weakness; he knows when you’re making a mistake. And his technique is tight enough to find an opening. For those of you that think Machida is all technique and no finish, you are vastly underestimating his striking and kicking power. Machida’s legs are amongst the best in the business, and they’re good enough to keep Evans at bay. Bank on it.

UFC Furious Pick: Machida -200 via KO