UFC 96 Preview & Predictions: Matt Hamill (5-2) vs. Mark Munoz (5-0) - Details

Matt Hamill, a staple to the Columbus, OH cards, makes his return to the Octagon after defeating Reese Andy by TKO at UFC 92. Mark Munoz is a WEC transplant and a former Division I National Champion wrestler. He sports a perfect 5-0 record, and finished his two fights in the WEC by TKO. 

Hamill is the more experienced of the two fighters, and besides a controversial (ridiculous) decision loss to Michael Bisping, he has only lost to former Middleweight kingpin Rich Franklin. Hamill has unorthodox striking and comes forward with reckless abandon, sometimes with his hands at his waist. He has good punching power, and being a former Division III National Champion, has good wrestling skills as well. 

Munoz is a great wrestler, but his stand up leaves something to be desired. Against lesser wrestlers, Munoz has been able to abandon the stand up and put his opponents on their back. His top control is great, and his ground-and-pound is full of serious power shots. If he can put Hamill on his back, he has a good chance to win the fight.

My Take: Hamill has more experience, better stand up, and is the better overall MMA fighter. Does that mean Munoz has no shot? Not at all. Munozs best chance is to put Hamill where he is uncomfortable, which is on his back. If he can do that, he can win the fight. I just dont think he has the stand up to close the distance effectively. Hamill will control the pace of the fight, and unless Munoz has improved his stand up dramatically, hes going to have to secure takedowns early and often. Munoz would best be served to wait for Hamill to over commit when coming forward, but he also has to be wary of Hamills patented front headlock. I think Hamill can keep the fight standing and punish Munoz on the feet. Its not going to be a pretty fight, but Hamill will get the job done.

Joes Prediction: Matt Hamill via unanimous decision.