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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
The next two weeks feature one of the greatest collections of heavyweight fighting in MMA history, with a full UFC pay-per-view card featuring fights in the division and this Saturday's Strikeforce Heavyweight World Grand Prix finals between Daniel Cormier and Josh Barnett.
With Saturday's fight coming up first, the UFC approached the top four fighters on next weekend's card to get their takes and predictions on the fight.
UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior dos Santos: "They are both great fighters and this is a fight that could end very quickly for each guy. But Cormier is more explosive and has the better chances to end this early. It could be very exciting, but I think Cormier wins."
Frank Mir: "I think Cormier takes this. I can't see Barnett getting him to the ground, his wrestling is too strong. And on the feet I think Cormier has the power to end things. But with two top heavyweights, anything can happen. That’s why this division is so exciting - anyone who is world class can beat anyone else with one punch. You can't say that about the lighter weight classes and that's why heavyweight fights are so cool to watch."
Cain Velasquez: "I pick Daniel Cormier. Number one, because I train with him but also because he's so hungry in this sport, I don't think he will be denied. He was really raw when he came into our gym the first time a couple of years ago but he picked up everything a lot faster than most. He has dangerous strikes and I can't see Josh getting him to the ground. Daniel's wrestling is too good; I think he takes this fight and makes a statement about his future in the division."
Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva: "I think Cormier will win this fight and be the Grand Prix Champion. I was very surprised by him in our fight. I think he is too strong, too powerful in this fight. He punches very hard and his wrestling is very good. I think he will win inside the distance unless Josh Barnett gets this to the ground quickly."
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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