Well-Roundedness and X-Factors:
Both fighters are come from striking backgrounds, having won titles in the sport of kickboxing, however, over the course of their long and storied MMA careers they’ve developed respectable grappling skills as well.
The general consensus among MMA pundits and fans alike is that Reem is one of the most well-rounded fighters and his glass-chin notwithstanding, Ubereem is widely regarded as one of the best HWs of this era. On the contrary, Hunt was considered a one-trick pony in his early career in Pride, DREAM and even his in his Octagon debut against McCorkle.
Nevertheless, that perception has changed during his UFC stint and in 2017 he’s added decent TDD and submission-defense to his resume. Furthermore, in stark contrast to The Reem, Hunt’s chin and ability to endure punishment is legendary.
An important factor that could make a huge difference leading into UFC 209, is Hunt’s recent legal issues with his employers. As we already know, having fought three proven steroid-cheats in a row- Antonio Silva, Frank Mir and Brock Lesnar; Hunt filed a lawsuit seeking compensation for damages against the UFC, Dana White and Brock Lesnar.
In fact, a couple of days back the UFC lawyers filed a motion to dismiss said suit filed by the legendary Kiwi. Although he’s stated in several interviews in the lead-up to 209, that none of these issues distracts him, one can’t help but speculate how much influence the media-circus with the UFC and UFC President Dana White fazes him mentally. Here’s a phone-call interview featuring Hunt and his lawyer addressing the lawsuit-
Sensei Tiger says: Well-Roundedness and X-Factor edge- Overeem.
Pick:
Hunt vs Overeem is a striking purist’s dream matchup. Let’s examine the two most likely scenarios in this HW fight-
#1 Overeem runs out of range (no, seriously!) much like his fight against Roy Nelson and Stipe Miocic, tags Hunt with kicks and then goes off on his bicycle once again. Expect a lot of feints from The Reem and most of all non-committal arm punches at long range. It’s highly unlikely that Reem plants his feet and puts his body-weight behind his punches, however the kicks would be aimed at the stocky Samoan’s arms and torso in an attempt to break him down. Meduimreem will look to outpoint Hunt and take a decision in the 3-round fight.
#2 Hunt touches that chin with his fists. He times Reem when the Dutchman throws either a naked kick or a jab from mid-range, and catches him like his KO win over Frank Mir.
Sensei Tiger says: Hunt gets tagged with punches, kicks, elbows and knees, maybe even gets taken down and controlled on the mat. Overeem wins this fight in style until he does something stupid like trying to trade with Mark at mid-range. Hunt catches him at boxing range and times him with a Straight-Right. Hunto knocks him out and walks away like a boss.
Mark Hunt beats Alistair Overeem via KO.
For Indian Audience: LIVE Telecast - UFC 209, LIVE and Exclusive on Sunday, 5 March 2017, on Sony ESPN at 8.30 am
