When former UFC Welterweight champ Georges St. Pierre faced one shot KO artist Johny Hendricks last November it was clear that the longtime fan favorite finally met his match.
Although GSP won the fight via decision many thought Hendricks did enough to dethrone the champion. During his post fight interview a bloodied and battered GSP stated he’d be walking away from the sport, leaving the Welterweight division in limbo. Until now.
This Saturday night Hendricks will face a man who’s just as — if not more — explosive than he is — longtime MMA veteran “Ruthless” Robbie Lawler.
Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating matchup for the UFC Welterweight title.
Johny Hendricks (15-2)
Armed with the arguably the best wrestling pedigree (Division l) in the UFC’s Welterweight division, Hendricks also possesses perhaps the most powerful weapon in MMA — his left hand.
After leaving a trail of bodies on his way to the top, Hendricks finally got his chance against GSP. Even though he lost a rather controversial decision he once again has the chance to become the UFC Welterweight champ.
In this matchup against fellow bruiser Lawler, it would benefit Hendricks greatly to use his wrestling more often than usual, much like he did against another hard hitting and striking, Carlos Condit. If Hendricks can control Lawler on the ground that may lead to many opportunities for him to capitalize on him while they are on their feet. Of course Hendricks would ultimately love to finish Lawler with his enormous left hand and we’re betting that he’ll be more aggressive than he was versus GSP.
Robbie Lawler (22-9)
When former EliteXC Middleweight champion and StrikeForce contender Lawler made his return to the UFC no one thought he’d be on a tear like he is currently experiencing right now. Armed with bombs in each of his fists, Lawler is a pure juggernaut.
Victims of the recharged veteran have seen a far more intelligent and patient fighter. Josh Koscheck was blasted to smithereens in the first round. Rory McDonald looked as if he wasn’t prepared for a fighter with the sheer ferocity Lawler displayed that night.
If Lawler walks away with the UFC Welterweight title strapped to his waist Saturday night it will be because of two reasons: either he knocks Hendricks unconscious or gets very close to doing so while laying down some serious punishment.
The Bottom Line
According to Bodog, Hendricks (-450) is the clear favorite over Lawler (+325) and we must agree. Hendricks was the first man since Matt Serra to effectively push GSP to the brink of defeat and this is the type of fight he shines in. A war may break out but it seems more possible that someone’s night will end abruptly with a devastating shot none of us will soon forget. Either way we can’t remember the last time two men with such incredible power have faced off with this much on the line.
Only one thing is certain..there will be blood.
Zachary Hutton is the lead boxing writer and an MMA contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can see what he’s up to at his band’s website myunclethewolf.com or also subscribe onFacebook.
