UFC 170 will go down this Saturday night from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and headlining the stacked fight card will be women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey vs. Sara McMann.

MMASucka Staff Predictions UFC 170

In the co-main event Rashad Evans was forced out due to injury, so Daniel Cormier will now face fellow collegiate wrestler and UFC newcomer Patrick Cummins. Also on the card is a welterweight showdown between Rory MacDonald and Demian Maia.

As always the staff at MMASucka.com will make their predictions be heard. As you can see from our overall running scores, some of us are much better than others. But without further ado, check out the MMASucka Staff Predictions.

Justin – 17-9
Allen – 15-6
Suraj – 11-6
Henry – 7-6
Jeremy – 14-12
Thinesh – 6-2
JP – 1-4
Callum – 3-1

Ronda Rousey vs. Sara McMann

Jeremy: The question that many are asking coming in to this fight, is Sara McMann ready for Ronda Rousey? I believe the answer is — yes! She may not beat Rousey, but she is definitely ready. McMann has not faced the talent that Rousey has, but she has the wrestling pedigree under her belt. On the flip-side, Rousey has never faced anyone that has been able to take her down and control her there and McMann has the potential of doing that.

With that said, I believe that McMann will make it out of the first round, but Rousey will nab that arm and finish her in the second. Ronda Rousey via Round 2 submission.

Callum: This is an interesting test for Ronda Rousey, and it comes just two months after the toughest fight of her MMA career today. Against Miesha Tate Rousey suffered the longer the fight went, but still managed to find a way to get the victory in the third round. Ronda Rousey has not held back in talking about how much she hated the TUF coaching experience, and from there she went straight into filming movies and a training camp at the same time. After winning at UFC 168 and going straight back into fight camp, is Ronda Rousey at risk of burning out? McMann is a tough test and I think we could see Rousey on her back for the first time, but at the end of the day I think she has enough to see off the test of her fellow Olympian. Ronda Rousey via Round 3 submission. 

Allen: There are a lot of questions that McMann has to answer. She’s still relatively unknown as a fighter. While she could hang with Rousey physically, can she outlast her frantic pace? Rousey has a non-stop motor that doesn’t stop, until the fight is over. I’m not sure what to believe about her striking, after hearing her coaches say that she’s massively improved. She’s shown in the past that she has a solid jab. On the downside, she tends to leave herself open far too often. McMann hasn’t show much from a striking standpoint, so I don’t think this is the fight where Ronda will pay for leaving herself exposed. In the end, Rousey’s footwork and speed will be the difference makers. McMann is still relatively raw as a fighter, despite having all the Olympic accomplishments. Don’t forget that she’s been out for nearly a year from action. Too many negatives for me to believe that there is a remote chance for an upset. Ronda Rousey via Round 2 submission (arm bar) 

Suraj: This fight is especially good for Rousey. She finally can challenge herself by taking on someone who has had similar acclaim outside the MMA world. Now posting a 7-0 record, McMann seems ready to fight for UFC gold. Miesha Tate proved that Rousey is still human and can be worked on for three rounds. However, after passing the first round in her last fight, Rousey will surely be increasing her cardio workouts to make sure she has what it takes to go five rounds. This will be no easy task for either woman, and it will be interesting to see how this fight plays out given Rousey’s elite level judo and McMann’s similar level wrestling. If McMann comes in with solid endurance and striking skills, this really good be anyone’s match. In the end, if Rousey gets McMann on her back, I don’t know if I see this finishing any other way. Ronda Rousey via Round 4 submission. 

Justin: Once again, I will direct you to the latest Stats For Suckas, but yes, I agree with everyone here that Ronda Rousey will win. Where we disagree, however, is how the fight will end. I expect this one to go to a decision, just because Sara McMann’s grappling pedigree is good enough to dictate she’ll gut through almost anything. Ronda Rousey via Unanimous Decision

Daniel Cormier vs. Patrick Cummins

Jeremy: The entire world is counting Patrick Cummins out of this co-main event battle with Daniel Cormier and for good reason. The man holds a 4-0 professional record and has only been fighting since 2010, however he does have a wrestling background much like Cormier. The oddsmakers have a huge gap between the two, which is also not surprising — “DC” was a favorite against Rashad Evans, so why wouldn’t he be against this newcomer.

This could be a true Rocky story, or it could go the way everyone thinks it will. Daniel Cormier via Round 2 TKO.

Callum: Daniel Cormier is, unsurprisingly, the firm favourite in this fight. Cummins is coming off a long absence from fighting and has just one fight in a major MMA organisation back in 2010. The UFC has done a great job of generating some interest in Patrick Cummins and this fight, but in many ways the most interesting aspect of this fight is how Daniel Cormier has coped with the weight cut. If he has done so as well as I think he has, and has gained some speed, this should be the best Daniel Cormier we’ve seen yet. Daniel Cormier via Round 1 TKO.

Allen: The UFC has done an outstanding job for getting the best out of a bad situation. I’m not sure if it was Cormier’s idea to start this heat, considering he’s a big pro wrestling fan or if there is genuine distain for one another. Who knows, but the animosity between both fighters has me highly interested. This is still a major mismatch, but maybe will see some potential in Cummins. We all know how much the light heavyweight division needs more depth. If Cummins could last a round and defend some takedowns, then I’ll be impressed. It’s nearly impossible to break down this fight, since Cummins hasn’t fought any top-level competition in his career. Cormier is arguably one of the top ten best fighters in the world. He’s manhandled former world champions in the past. This won’t be much of a contest. Daniel Cormier via Round 1TKO (punches)

Suraj: It’s hard to give any credit to a new fighter taking on a 13-0 veteran. Cormier has damaged the heavyweight division and will make his light heavyweight debut against Cummins. Unless his pal Cain Velasquez loses the title, this will likely be the weight class Cormier sticks with. With that said, does Cummins even stand a chance? The difference in experience is oceans apart, and Cummins has yet to be challenged given his streak of first round finishes. Cormier will not be finished in the first round, and that’s a guarantee. The question is, can Cummins keep up with Cormier’s wrestling? Highly unlikely. Not to mention, if Cormier couldn’t knockout Frank Mir, he probably has some work to do in the striking department. He’s in the right camp to learn, though. Daniel Cormier via Unanimous Decision. 

Justin: You see that look on Daniel Cormier’s face in the picture up above? What does that tell you? To me, it says, “Man, I can’t believe I’m gettin’ paid to whoop this guy’s ass back to Starbucks.” Sorry Patrick Cummins, but your 4-0 run of can-crushing is over, and can I get extra whipped cream on that grande caramel machiatto? Daniel Cormier via Round 1 TKO

Rory MacDonald vs. Demian Maia

Jeremy: Rory MacDonald is coming off his first loss in two years, when he fell short against Robbie Lawler. His opponent, Demian Maia, is also coming off a loss — also a split decision to Jake Shields. Both men were inching themselves ever so close to a UFC welterweight title shot, however the loss set them back a bit, so a victory for either one will put them back on track. Rory MacDonald via Unanimous Decision.

Callum: Both men will be keen to establish themselves as we get closer to crowning a new UFC welterweight champion. For Rory MacDonald, the title shot he had held off from actively seeking while team mate George St Pierre was champion is now a reality for the not too distant feature. Demian Maia has had a title shot before, and will be all too aware that these opportunities don’t come around too often. If Maia can take MacDonald down, then we could see an upset here. However if MacDonald can keep the distance and pick his shots, it could be another textbook performance from MacDonald. Demian Maia via Split Decision. 

Allen: There are actually some people predicting that Maia will ground MacDonald out for three rounds, similar to what he did against Jon Fitch. Maia isn’t a slouch by any means, but this is Rory’s fight to lose. He’s more of an efficient striker, faster, stronger, and can hold his own on the ground. I’m expecting him to be more aggressive, as I’ve been saying all week on the site. Unless he gets careless on the ground, how does he lose this fight? MacDonald will utilize different angles to find openings in breaking down Maia, before finishing him off on the ground. Rory MacDonald via Round 2 TKO (punches)

Suraj: Rory MacDonald has been given huge bump ever since he made his UFC debut. However, Robbie Lawler brought him back down to earth and now the young Canadian is trying to avoid losing two straight. This is probably my favorite fight on the card and potentially the most competitive matchup. MacDonald is known for his length and ability to keep his opponent at bay, while landing precise strikes and utilizing his wrestling when necessary. Maia, on the other hand, has proven to be quite the combatant at 170 pounds and took his first loss in the division against Jake Shields. Maia has proven to have a solid chin and is ruthless with trying to get his opponent to the ground. I don’t  believe MacDonald has what it takes to knockout the gritty Brazilian, but if he does, I’ll eat my words happily. Demian Maia via Unanimous Decision

Justin: Both Maia and the self-proclaimed “Ares” are coming off split decision losses, but like Suraj, I think that Maia’s experience and grit will allow him to give his Canadian foe fits. I also agree that Rory MacDonald has not shown the striking prowess – or power – necessary to flatten the man who is arguably the best BJJ practitioner in the UFC. What MacDonald can do, however, is stifle Demian’s takedown attempts and create a slow, grinding fight. Whether that works to his advantage remains to be seen, as Brazilian has out-Fitched Jon Fitch en route to victory. My head’s telling me Maia, my gut’s saying Rory. Rory MacDonald via Split Decision

(Photo by FOX Sports)Mike Pyle vs. T.J. Waldburger

Jeremy: Two men coming off a loss and looking to edge themselves in to the upper echelon of the stacked UFC welterweight division. Mike Pyle and T.J. Waldburger should be a fan-favorite, with both Pyle and Waldburger having great submission games. If this one goes to the ground, which it will, fans will be in for a treat. I believe both guys are too well rounded for either to get the finish, so I’m going to toss a coin in this one. Mike Pyle via Unanimous Decision.

Callum: Mike Pyle doesn’t have too long left in his career at 38 years old, but he has the more impressive record than his younger opponent. With his only losses since 2009 coming to top contenders like Rory MacDonald and Matt Brown, Pyle has a series of impressive knockouts to his name. Waldburger has been knocked out six times in his career thus far, most recently to newcomer Adlan Amagov. Waldburger’s only chance is to get this fight down to the ground and look for a submission or control the fight there. Mike Pyle by Round 2 TKO.

Allen:  Am I the only one that believes this is a pretty substantial mismatch? While Pyle tends to be a slow starter, he gets more aggressive as the fight goes on and is extremely durable. Waldburger’s striking deficiencies have been shown in past fights. That doesn’t bode well against such a well-rounded fighter like Pyle. This should be a high-paced fight full of action with the potential of having some unique transitions on the ground. Waldburger will be looking to get the fight to the ground at almost every opportunity possible. In the end, Pyle has fewer flaws and will control most of the bout. Mike Pyle via unanimous decision

Suraj: The one difference between Pyle and Waldburger is quite clear. Though both have demonstrated outstanding BJJ and grappling skills, Pyle outclasses Waldburger in the stand-up department. Furthermore, Pyle has faced much tougher competition throughout his career. Unless Waldburger has made career-changing strides in the striking department, Pyle’s experience coupled with his striking advantage should get him the victory on Saturday night. Mike Pyle Round 3 TKO. 

Justin: I have a certain nostalgic fondness for Mike Pyle. I remember being in attendance at UFC 115, sitting in the lower bowl of Rogers Arena during Pyle’s card-opening bout against Jesse Lennox with almost nobody else having shown up. Being the smart-ass I am, I shouted, “Kick him in the face!” at some point in the first round. And wouldn’t you know it, “Quicksand” up and kicked him in the face. Coincidence? Probably, but my voice carries, so you never know – But I digress. Pyle’s stifling grappling prowess and improved striking is going to be a little much for poor T.J. Waldburger, so expect this to end explosively. Mike Pyle via Round 2 TKO.

Stephen Thompson vs. Robert Whittaker

Jeremy: I’m excited about this opening bout of the PPV, as both guys have crazy knockout power. “Wonderboy” came in to the UFC with the most ridiculous kick-boxing record and won his debut by wicked head-kick. Whittaker will look to get back on the winning horse, as he’s coming off a loss to Court McGee last August. Thompson has the upper-hand in age, however Whittaker has the MMA experience edge. Stephen Thompson via Round 1 KO.

Callum: I really like Robert Whittaker. Very calm and collected for a young fighter, Whittaker won the Ultimate Fighter: Smashes season with an impressive victory over the much bigger Brad Scott. He followed that up with a TKO of TUF 16 winner Colton Smith, before a disappointing split decision loss to Court McGhee. The finishing battle is interesting: Thompson has real knockout power, but Whittaker has never been knocked out. Likewise, Whittaker has won all of his fights bar one by KO or submission, but Thompson has yet to be finished in his career. Robert Whittaker by Unanimous Decision.

Allen: Thompson is somewhat of an enigma. I’ve heard so much about his accomplishments in kickboxing, yet haven’t seen him fight live very often. He’s somewhat of a one-trick pony right now, although that one trick is very explosive. His striking is on another level and should carry him to victory here. Whittaker doesn’t standout in any particular area. His fight IQ is a major question mark for me. His most recent loss to Court McGee is the reason behind that, when he was clearly taking damage on almost every exchange. Thompson will prove to be too quick for him with precise striking, which will lead to an early finish. Stephen Thompson via Round 1 KO (body kick) 

Suraj: This is quite the battle to kick off the main card. I had the pleasure of watching Thompson fight live at UFC 165 and believe he could be a solid up-and-comer in the welterweight division. His striking speed and ability to change up his combos is a huge asset in a wrestler-heavy division. However, I think Whittaker has the tools to become a better fighter. He has solid wrestling, two black belts and fights out of Tristar. He is still quite young and should be able to improve as he takes on more UFC talent. In the end, I think Thompson is ready for an increase in competition, whereas Whittaker has not faced a striker of this caliber, and is still trying to find his game as a professional fighter in the UFC. Stephen Thompson via Round 2 TKO. 

Justin: I will always enjoy Stephen Thomspon’s nickname, which is why I’m always disappointed when I don’t see him walking out to the Tenacious D song of the same name. The 170 lbs. kickboxer has improved his wrestling to the point where he can hang with the middle echelon of the division, and I think it’s at a point where he’ll be able to keep this fight on the feet more often than not. Shame for Robert Whittaker, but the TUF: Smashes winner will likely get smashed upside the head with a shinbone. Stephen Thompson via Round 1 TKO

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