The Doggy Bag: ‘The Five W’s’ Edition

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Is Michael McDonald the biggest threat to Dominick Cruz? I don't think he is ready for a title shot just yet, but over his next two or three fights from now (or more), he might evolve into the most dangerous fighter in the division because of his sick power and submission game. I know that Cruz has the rubber match with Faber to get past and Renan Barao is still out there too, but I feel like McDonald might be the best prospect in MMA under 24. That includes the other one, Rory MacDonald. -- Alex from El Paso

TJ De Santis, Sherdog Radio Network program director: You've really got me thinking about prospects under 25 now. I think you might be right in stating that Michael McDonald maybe the best prospect under the legal age to rent a car. Heck, McDonald just might be the best MMA prospect out there today. What he did to Miguel Torres at UFC 145 was impressive beyond his years.

McDonald was kind enough to join Greg Savage and Jeff Sherwood on "The Savage Dog Show" this week. He joined the program to talk about his KO victory and where he is at as a budding mixed martial artist. His interview was nearly as impressive as his fight. Michael is so mature that you forget that he is really just a kid. He talked about his maturation process. If you missed it, please go check it out.

Now to the most serious question of any prospect in our game. Is he a threat to the champion? Yes, of course he is. With hands like his how can he not be? Do I think he is a favorite to beat Cruz? Of course not. Well, not yet. He has a lot to prove still in the division. Can he stop takedowns from someone like Scott Jorgensen? Can he keep up with the pace of a Joseph Benavidez? Can he hunt down Dominick Cruz and make him stop long enough to be hit?

There are a ton of questions about Michael McDonald. Like you said, I think he will answer these and more over his next few fights. The MMA populous is looking forward to know what the California native really can do. And so is the rest of his division.

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