UFC 105 Underdog Alert - Mike Swick vs. Dan Hardy

Mike Swick Battles Dan Hardy for Right to Challenge St. Pierre

Risking a face pummeling only to step up against Georges St. Pierre hardly seems like a reward, but a battle between the last two welterweight contenders of note is all that’s left for a division that is losing contenders as fast as Kanye West is losing fans. Mike Swick is coming off four straight victories, with his last two wins were knock-outs of Jonathan Goulet and Ben Saunders. He’ll be battling a guy who has six consecutive wins in his back pocket.

Swick is undoubtedly the smarter fighter between the two, and his fighting I.Q. is largely his best weapon. His defense is questionable, however, as he likes to swing wide and often keeps his hands too far apart to protect his face. Swick will be shooting for the takedown where he can methodically control the fight, but that might not be the best strategy for the intelligent fighter.

Dan Hardy’s greatest asset is his tactical boxing, and his known ability as a counter puncher are what make him a dangerous threat in this match. I think that Swick has a nasty habit of over thinking his fights and Hardy can take advantage if Swick projects his attempts. Also lending itself to a solid UFC betting pick is Hardy’s talent as a boxer which he can use to keep Swick off center.

It’s no surprise here. I don’t think Swick has the aggressive mindset needed to become a champ, and while Hardy doesn’t have what it takes to keep up with St. Pierre, I say he gets lucky with a counter punch when Swick keeps tries to stand toe-to-toe or goes for an ill-fated take down. Hand this bet to the Brit.

Furious Free Pick: Dan Hardy (+165) OVER Mike Swick (-210)