Strikeforce ‘Rockhold vs. Jardine’ Preview: The Main Card

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Welterweights
Tyron Woodley (9-0, 7-0 SF) vs. Jordan Mein (23-7, 1-0 SF)

The Matchup: This is a meeting between two of the promotion’s most interesting remaining welterweights, and the winner would seem like a solid choice to sit atop the division.

Woodley has yet to taste defeat in his professional career, and while his style is not always crowd pleasing, it is effective. Exhibit A is Woodley’s most recent outing versus Paul Daley. For the majority of the contest, the American Top Team product contained the British striker with clinch work, takedowns and top control. He never allowed Daley to unleash his considerable power, and the result was a decision win. Woodley’s standup is still developing; he has power in his hands, but the two-time NCAA All-American always has the option of taking the fight to the mat and riding out a victory. So far, opponents have not had an answer for the overall speed and athleticism that accompany his wrestling. Woodley could stand to improve his offense from top position, but, as was the case in his win over Tarec Saffiedine, a conservative approach eliminates the risk of being submitted.

At the other end of the spectrum is Mein, an exciting young fighter who made an impressive Strikeforce debut against Evangelista “Cyborg” Santos in September, bloodying the Brazilian with a series of standing elbows to earn a stoppage. Already a veteran of 30 professional fights at just 21 years old, the Canadian has acquired plenty of experience, including wins over Marius Zaromskis, Josh Burkman and Joe Riggs.

Mein has good kicks and quick hands to go with solid upper body strength, which will come in handy when attempting to thwart Woodley’s wrestling. Mein will have to keep Woodley at a distance to unleash his striking; once Woodley can press him against the cage, he can wear most anyone down. Mein will have to mix up his strikes, using counter hooks and strikes to the body, while hoping Woodley fades as the fight progresses.

The Pick: It is not always pretty, but Woodley has the right blend of strength, quickness and athleticism to make his game plan work. Mein has the edge on the feet, but, eventually, Woodley is going to impose his will. Woodley will get popped a couple of times early, but he will recover and grind out a decision.

Finish Reading » Next Fight: Tarec Saffiedine vs. Tyler Stinson