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Wanderlei Silva vs Rampage Jackson 3 at UFC 92: What’s different now?

 

The 2 times Wanderlei Silva and Quinton Jackson met up in Pride were both interesting encounters in ’03 and ’04. But both times ended with knockouts and Silva’s hands raised? What’s different this time around when the two tangle in December at UFC 92?:

 

JACKSON IS BETTER

Using the services of Juanito Ibarra has developed Rampage’s skills in boxing immensely. Although he no longer employs the boxing turned MMA coach, he learned a lot from him and scored a UFC title and wins over Dan Henderson and Chuck Liddell with his aid.

 

SILVA IS NO LONGER INVINCIBLE

When Silva defeated Jackson for the 2^nd time, that victory secured 18 fights without a loss for the former Pride FC champion. A terrifying figure in the Pride ring. Since then Wanderlei Silva shockingly in comparison is a .500 fighter. He has dropped 5 out of his last 10 fights, 2 defeats by knockout and a 3 fight losing streak in the midst of it. Although Silva is a still a highly threatening 205er, as shown in his quick KO over Keith Jardine in his last fight, the Brazilian has lost some of the indestructible aura that once oozed from his reign as Pride FC’s greatest champion.

 

SOCCER IS NOT POPULAR IN THE US

Rampant soccer kicks to the head is a precious weapon in Silva’s arsenal and was used against Rampage in their first bout. This time around the unified rules the UFC adheres to won’t allow the soccer kick happy Silva to employ such tactics.

 

KNEES TO THE DOWNED OPPONENT

Same goes for knees to the head on the ground. If a fighter is in the down position, Silva won’t be able to have his way by drilling his knees to the head.

 

THE CAGE

If Rampage scores a takedown against the wily Silva, he can utilized the fence as a tool. Rampage can stuff Silva into the cage and work some ground and pound. By the same token it can aid Silva in getting back to his feet.

 

10 MINUTE ROUNDS NO MORE

The first round in Pride is a grueling 10 minute affair. No more is that going to be a factor in this third battle. Five 3 minute rounds will be a refreshing change for the fighters and make for potential 3 stanzas of unadulterated light heavyweight violence in the most technical form.

 

THE OUTCOME

This time around Rampage will come out on top. He is desperate to get his title back and show the world he is a true champion. If his head is on straight, which some people questioned after he went on a road Rampage earlier this year, he will come out on top. He definitely doesn’t want to lose for a 3^rd time and his main source of motivation will likely stem from this. Rampage by decision as he narrows the score to 2-1 in this trilogy.