“I was very happy when I found out I would face Belfort. I was thrilled. It isn’t every day that you get to face an opponent of Belfort’s caliber – a very tough opponent who is a big name, like Belfort… In reality, no one wants to trade shots with Vitor – especially in the beginning. He is a very strong guy. I believe the best chance for me to win will be to grapple. To fight close, on the ground. If Belfort goes to the ground, I will submit him.”
-Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza talks to FoxSports.com about his planned strategy against Vitor Belfort Saturday at UFC 198.
Penick’s Analysis: This is a massive spot for Souza, and a win here could very well get him the next title fight at middleweight. The smart strategy is definitely to get Belfort to the ground, because even though Jacare’s got knockout power in his own right, standing against Belfort doesn’t typically turn out to be a great idea for most fighters. Souza also got hurt by Yoel Romero in his last fight, and can’t risk his chin against Belfort here. He needs this win more than any other he’s needed in years, and if he can get Belfort to the ground, he’s wholly capable of pulling off the submission.
[Photo (c) Jason Silva via USA Today Sports]
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