MMA Junkie analyst Dan Tom provides insights into the upcoming UFC on ESPN 56 main event showdown between Derrick Lewis and Rodrigo Nascimento. Lewis, a former heavyweight title contender, is set to clash with the rising star Nascimento in what promises to be an action-packed fight.
Lewis, towering at 6’3″ and weighing 265 lbs, is renowned for his knockout abilities, boasting an impressive 22 KO victories. He also possesses 9 first-round finishes and has shown improvements in his wrestling and ground striking skills. On the flip side, Nascimento, at 6’2″ and 264 lbs, has secured 6 wins via submissions and has displayed progress in his overall striking game.
The main event anticipates a heavyweight slugfest, given both fighters’ heavy-handed styles. Lewis is famous for his destructive punches and counterstriking prowess, but he must remain cautious against the skilled Nascimento, who has been honing his boxing skills since joining the UFC.
Although the fight could predominantly take place on the feet, the potential for grappling exchanges should not be overlooked. Nascimento, holding a BJJ brown belt, might aim to leverage his wrestling expertise against Lewis, who has exhibited effective counter-grappling strategies in recent bouts.
The betting odds favor Lewis, placing Nascimento as the underdog. Forecasts indicate that Lewis could clinch a second-round knockout triumph, leveraging his striking power and ground-and-pound capabilities. Fans can anticipate an electrifying showdown between these two talented heavyweights.
