UFC 115 was supposed to be the third installment of Chuck vs. Tito but due to Tito’s never ending bout with various injuries we’ll have Chuck Liddell vs. Rich Franklin instead. A bout that in my opinion is a lot more interesting than the rubber match that no one really wants to see. But before we go to the main event, let’s talk about some of the matchups on the undercard.

Ben Rothwell vs. Gilbert Yvel (Heavyweights)

Two heavyweights that are trying to get their first win in the UFC. Though both are quite skilled, neither of them will likely be considered for a title shot anytime soon (or ever). Rothwell (30-7) has a size advantage over Yvel (36-14) but everyone knows he won’t use it as much since he likes to stand up and bang with anyone. Yvel is a pretty dangerous striker but I don’t think he has enough tools to beat Rothwell which despite being outclassed by Cain Velasquez in his last outing is a better rounded fighter than the Dutchman.

Prediction: Rothwell by UD 29-28

Martin Kampmann vs. Paolo Thiago (Welterweights)

This has fight of the night written all over it. Both guys are pretty good on the ground but I have a feeling they will be on their feet most of the time. Both are rangy strikers with decent power and while Kampmann seems to be the more polished boxer, Thiago has the edge in punching power and if he can knock Kampmann down I think Thiago’s jiu- jitsu will be the difference. There will be good number of scrambles and transitions on the ground which should make this a very entertaining bout.

Prediction: Paolo Thiago by submission (round 3)

Mirko Crocop vs. Pat Barry (Heavyweights)

You got two K-1 veteran so this should be pretty explosive I’m very surprised not a lot of people are talking about this matchup. Just like the Rothwell vs. Yvel match, I don’t think any of these two will get to title contention whatever the outcome may be. With that being said Crocop will be notching another win because if there’s any heavyweight in the UFC right now that’ll make him look good, it’s Barry; a short and stocky fighter that wouldn’t take him down and will be at a distance where Crocop can do a lot of damage.

Prediction: Crocop by KO in the 2nd round

Chuck Lidell vs. Rich Franklin (Light Heavyweights)

A very intriguing matchup that pits two fighters that’s at the crossroads of their respective careers. Lidell, having gone 1-4 in his last 5 fights is certainly on the decline and Franklin is in MMA limbo because you really don’t know where to put him as his last two fights has been at a catch weight of 195 lbs.

Both coming off a loss and both guys at this stage of their careers seem to melt every time someone hits them flush in the chin. Franklin is as well rounded as they come and Lidell, for all his flaws have two things going for him, heavy hands and an excellent sprawl. This is definitely a pick’em fight that should give the winner the illusion of possible getting a title shot down the line and the loser to do the right thing which I believe is to retire.

Prediction: Rich Franklin by UD 29-28