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Predict the outcome of the Luke Rockhold-Vitor Belfort bout at UFC on FX 8. Who wins and how?
RICH HANSEN, MMATORCH COLUMNIST
I think Belfort, despite being considered as the #2 MW in the world by many people, is actually underrated. The whole TRT cheating-bastard-steroid-monkey thing doesn't help people see what he's capable of doing inside the cage. Luke Rockhold is very similar to Chris Weidman in the fact that he's milking the one good win he's ever had in his entire life for all it's worth (and then some). After Belfort defeats Rockhold and after Anderson Silva puts Chris Weidman out of his misery (assuming silva is man enough to overcome his fears of Weidman and actually, you know, show up), let's make Weidman and Rockhold fight. The loser can win the title of biggest flash in the pan media creation of the last five years.
FRANK HYDEN, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR
I think Rockhold gets the win. I know Vitor is still really good, but I think Rockhold is prepared to make a big impact. Vitor is going to come out and try to end it early, but if Rockhold can weather the storm I think he gets the decision win.
C.J. TUTTLE, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR
Vitor continues his string of victories by knockout and makes a play at one final title shot. Where he is destroyed and retires.
ERIC HOBAUGH, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR
Shortest roundtable awnser ever. Belfort by KO in the second round.
CAMERON LYMAN, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR
I think Vitor Belfort shows up at the weigh in shredded, looking three years younger. I see Belfort backing Rockhold down for the first round while Rockhold counters well. Rockhold’s chin holds up and he takes over the fight in the later rounds while looking for a submission. Rockhold via decision.
BRAD WALKER, MMATORCH COLUMNIST
I don't think Rockhold is on the level to defeat Vitor, but I do think he is in the area to compete with him. That's my conundrum for this fight: does Rockhold excel past the glass ceiling that Strikeforce fighters seem to have fallen victim to? Honestly I wouldn't bet on it, but if he is able to he is going to legitimize his championship reign greatly and likely find himself in a title fight in very short order. My pick will still be Belfort by TKO.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
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STAFF COLUMNISTS: Shawn Ennis - Jason Amadi
Frank Hyden - Rich Hansen
Chris Park - Matt Pelkey
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