The UFC 209 main event features a rematch between two fighters that are unsurprisingly dissatisfied with their respective performances during their first go around. Tyron Woodley is out to prove that the judges were wrong in declaring the first fight a draw, while Stephen Thompson is keen on showing what he can really do to the welterweight champion. Here’s what we think will go down on Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
While the fight might’ve been a draw, if there’s a clear advantage for either fighter during that first fight, it’s that Tyron Woodley is a superior wrestler, as he showed in the first round when he dominated Stephen Thompson. It was surprising that he didn’t attempt to do more of that during the course of the fight, when it’s clear that the only chance Wonderboy has against him is when the fight is on the feet. Look for Woodley to measure his striking game as a way to get closer to Thompson and take the fight to the ground. And with the confidence he gained from the first fight during the standup exchanges, Tyron Woodley should be ultra-aggressive with his wrestling at UFC 209.
Stephen Thompson has been saying all along that he wasn’t able to execute the way he wanted to. As reported by Bloody Elbow, Wonderboy said that for some reason he was too hesitant in letting his hands go, vowing that it won’t happen at UFC 209. Of course, Tyron Woodley probably has a lot to do with his tentativeness as the constant threat of the champion’s rush and takedown has a way of making you pull your punches. That said, should Stephen Thompson be able to let his hands go as he promised, then he could find Woodley reaching, possibly setting him up for those devastating kicks.
UFC 209 goes down this Saturday, Mar. 4 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main card starts at 10 p.m. (ET). You can purchase the pay-per-view here.
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