Alexander Gustafsson vs. Anthony Johnson Fight Breakdown
It’s going to be a big night of fights in Stockholm, Sweden this weekend (Saturday January 24th, 2015) with Alexander Gustafsson vs Anthony Johnson headlining UFC On FOX 14. It’s less about the rivalry between the two dangerous light-heavyweights, there really isn’t one, and more about what’s at stake for either man with a win.
A shot at 205-pound kingpin Jon Jones is the prize for the victor, so without further ado, let’s check out the LowKickMMA Alexander Gustafsson vs Anthony Johnson fight breakdown:
Striking
This is where the bout is most likely to take place, as both men have shown that they like to get the job done with strikes. “The Mauler” comes with a much more technical approach, and you only need to look at his gallant effort against Jon Jones at UFC 165 to appreciate how Gus mixes size with strategy. What “Rumble” possesses is a pretty mean amount of power.
12 from 18 by T/KO for Johnson, 10 from 16 for Gus, Johnson certainly has the raw power in his favour but Gustafsson can hit hard and I feel he has the more technical abilities and obvious reach/height advantage. For that reason, I’m giving Gus a slight edge at 60-40
Takedowns
Gustafsson’s takedown defense rate is a superb 87%, although he is only successful in 37% of his 30 attempted takedowns in the UFC. Johnson finishes a much higher 58% of his 26 attempted UFC takedowns, and only just trails Gus with a still quality 85% takedown defense rate. The stats are only part of this equation though.
Gustafsson’s tall frame and higher center of gravity will make him easier to topple by the smaller, more explosive physique of “Rumble”, provided they aren’t against the cage the entire fight. With his raw power and proven track record, as well as some Junior college championship experience, I’m giving Johnson the edge at 60-40
Submissions
Johnson has never submitted anyone as a pro, and holds no notable ranking in Jiu Jitsu or any other grappling art. “The Mauler” is a purple belt in BJJ, and holds three subs as a pro, although his last tap was against James Te Huna at UFC 127. The Swede was submittd once as a pro, against current Alliance team mate Phil Davis, and Johnson has been finished three from four losses by tapping out, and all whilst in the UFC.
Overall, it’s clear that Gustafsson has the edge in offensive and defensive submission skills, and could well look to submit “Rumble” if he can’t finish him off on the feet. Gus has the nod at 60-40
So it’s another huge night upcoming for the UFC and the fans worldwide. Who will take the title shot this Saturday between Alexander Gustafsson vs Anthony Johnson?
