Chuck Liddell versus Rashad Evans.

Kelly-If you’re looking for a classic Iceman knockout, this won’t be the fight to watch. Evans is so talented at identifying his opponent’s strengths and rendering them impotent he should be nicknamed “The Neutralizer.” However, he still lacks the ability to do much more than that and is known for grinding out a fight to a decision. Against a striker like Liddell, Evans is good at moving his head so it doesn’t get hit and he can take a punch when it does. But his counter-striking is only middle of the road and against Liddell, it will need to be top shelf. Evans was also gun shy against Tito and will probably be the same when the Iceman stands in front of him. If he manages a takedown, Chuck will use those slippery hips to pop back up and pepper him the same way he did to Wanderlei, but only with half-hearted shots instead of those patented bombs since Evans is so elusive. I see Chuck pummeling Evans the same way he did against Wanderlei, but I think a decisive win will elude him again.

Mark-Wow, that was depressing to read. I can’t say I’m looking forward to the fight you’re describing. The thing is, Liddell really needs this win and he looked good against Wanderlei Silva when his back was against the wall. After his loss to Jardine there was plenty of talk of a potential retirement and a number of people questioning his commitment. Then he came out and had a terrific slugfest with Silva. I feel like Liddell should still have his back against the wall in this fight. Evans is a capable fighter but not one that should be too tough for Liddell to handle. With a title shot looking on the horizon, I’m sure Liddell’s focus won’t even be a question here. And with the money that could be made on the Liddell v. Griffin, then a Liddell v. Anderson Silva or a Liddell v. Couture match, I’m sure the UFC is trying to keep the Iceman focused on the task at hand. To me, that should be enough to neuter “The Neutralizer” and come out with a win. Evans can move well and should try to take this fight to the ground but I think Liddell will catch him and knock him out in the second.

Kelly-Liddell v. Couture 4? Please don’t subject us to that, Dana!