Strikeforce ‘Tate vs. Rousey’ Preview
The Prelims
Women’s Bantamweights
Sarah Kaufman vs. Alexis Davis: The 135-pound division is assured of at least one more significant matchup in the near future, as the winner of this bout is expected to receive a shot at the Ronda Rousey-Miesha Tate winner. Kaufman is a former champion who owns a victory against Tate in 2009. Kaufman, who has also previously beaten Davis, takes a decision.
Lightweights
Caros Fodor vs. Pat Healy: Unbeaten in five appearances under the Strikeforce banner, Fodor gave perhaps his most impressive performance in a 13-second first-round knockout of Justin Wilcox in December. Healy is an experienced veteran capable of stopping Fodor’s momentum should the prospect make a significant mistake. Fodor keeps the pressure on and takes a decision.
Lightweights
Ryan Couture vs. Conor Heun: Couture rebounded from the first loss of his career to defeat Maka Watson at Strikeforce Challengers 19. This one figures to revolve around who gets the better of the grappling, but Couture will need to have some success on the feet. Over three rounds, Heun outmaneuvers Couture on the mat and gets the nod from the judges.
Welterweights
Roger Bowling vs. Brandon Saling: Having notched a pair of knockout wins to begin 2012, Saling gets to make his Strikeforce debut against Bowling, who scored a knockout of his own against Jerron Peoples in December. Bowling is the better athlete and will give Saling a rude welcome, finishing the bout with strikes in round one.
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