Board Thread:General Discussion/@comment-34254807-20180127064314/@comment-32811455-20180306045308

184.94.19.2 wrote: I guess I can kind of understand the temptation to side with traditional logic here pointing out the most obvious advantages size and reach but this is not a traditional LHW, this man has already proven these advantages can be neutralized by his elite control game by beating BIGGER men than Stipe and he trains with monsters regularly. Not many fighters longer than Gus either...........

But I am glad the popular opinion is on Stipe, it has resulted in fantastic odds on DC. I will be putting money on the man who has only lost to one man and else wise is undefeated in any division.

And for the record, I bet on Stipe against Ngannou, also a night where the odds where skewed by public opinion. But in the gambling world it oft plays out as such, last fight Ngannou was getting all hype and thus the money and Stipe was an underdog (lmao) but now the hype is transferred to Stipe and DC is the underdog.

The only man on the planet DC should walk into the cage with as an underdog is Jon Jones and for that reason the value here is with DC.

CanadianOracle

I suppose the difference with Gus and Jones is two things: 1.) Jon is better (than anyone) at utilizing his reach and making it the advantage it should be, and 2.) Jon is a tremendous wrestler in his own right.

However, I believe Stipe's size and reach advantage is more salient in this case because unlike Gus, he is far heavier and also has a superior wrestling pedigree. I do think DC present problems for him but if Stipe can use his movement and defensive wrestling to avoid getting taken down, he should be able to outstrike DC with his long, straight punches. Stipe lacks the kicks that Jones has though, and the risk of being taken down off of a leg kick will make this a very interesting fight.

The odds should be close, but still in Stipe's favor. I'll have to look at some of DC's Strikeforce wins at HW, but I don't believe any of those guys could Box like Stipe. Correct me if I'm forgetting someone he did fight who had Stipe's skillset.