UFC 81 - Tim Sylvia vs Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira

By Scott Burgess
Fight Night: Feb 2, 2008 10:00 PM ET

UFC 81 Breaking Point brings us two decent fights that might be worthy of watching. The induction of WWE star Brock Lesnar vs Frank Mir and Tim Sylvia vs Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira.

Tim Sylvia(+135) Vs. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira(-165)

Tim Sylvia is coming off a win over Brandon Vera, in UFC 77, which he won by unanimous decision after a grueling three round battle. Sylvia is a slow, overweight, sluggish fighter that's being handed easy fights to increase his chances at another title shot. He got his ass handed to him by Randy Couture. He can't fight fighters with talent.

Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira is a great BJJ fighter with good boxing skills that can go the distance. He's better known as a Pride FC Fighter and has only one fight in the UFC under his belt. He beat Heath Herring, in UFC 73, after a three round unanimous decision. For a highly talented Pride fighter his debut in the UFC wasn't spectacular. This might be another set up for Sylvia to advance.

Bottom Line: I hate to say it but after Nogueira's last fight I'm starting to lean towards Sylvia. If Nogueira can take the fight to the ground he'll have a much better chance. I still think Tim Sylvia will win.