Chris Leben vs. Aaron Simpson Fight Prediction – TUF 11

CHRIS LEBEN vs. AARON SIMPSON

Fight Overview:  Undefeated prospect Aaron Simpson takes another step up in competition against dangerous slugger Chris “The Crippler” Leben.  Simpson has a more complete game, but Leben’s ground defense is underrated and he is an extremely formidable striker, so this is a very competitive fight.

Leben’s Strengths:  Leben has awesome punching, a great chin, and freakish cardio that allows him to push the pace hard for the entire duration of the fight.

Leben’s Weaknesses:  He has shown a hard time dealing with dominant wrestlers and his offensive attack is very one-dimensional and predictable.

Simpson’s Strengths:  Simpson has good standup, good takedowns and top control, and solid ground and pound.

Simpson’s Weaknesses:  His level of competition has not been very high and he is going to be severely outgunned in the standup.

The Verdict:  I think Leben is a great underdog pick.  Simpson has never been tested against a quality opponent, and Leben has what it takes to test his chin, if nothing else.  Leben is obviously not known for his ground game, but his defense is actually pretty good, which should help him keep Lawlor on his toes, especially coupled with his trademark forward movement and aggressive pacing.  At +260 and up, a striker of Leben’s caliber is a hard fight to pass on against a relatively inexperienced opponent.  Leben by T/KO.

Fight Prediction:  Chris Leben by second round T/KO.

• Bet on Leben @ +260 for the Win and a big payout.

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