Melvin Manhoef seems to target at fighting in the UFC. Although Manhoef (36) isn't the youngest 'prospect' out there, he is still motivated to start a new experience in fighting in the UFC. He states to be able to entertain a lot of people by fighting in the UFC. A 'brawl' with Wanderlei Silva sounds very interesting and attractive to him.
Image source: mixfight.nl
Manhoef can be seen as one of the most dangerous strikers in MMA with 25 of his 27 wins coming by knockout. Manhoef has fought in different organisations such as: Strikeforce, Dream, It's Showtime and K-1. In total a 27-9-1 MMA record and a 37-10 Kickboxing record. We can speak of a very experienced fighter and especially striker.
But, what does it mean if Manhoef will enter the UFC, what are his odds and what would his long term future be?
Firstly,
in my point of view Manhoef can be seen as a true gladiator without an
armour. One of the most explosive fighters you will find on this planet,
punches and legkicks as tough as they get, and a true fighter's heart,
but also quite sensitive for big haymakers of when he gets put on his
back. He needs to fight his fights standing and keep on putting
pressure, which he always does.
However, sometimes this isn't
enough and his opponent can out-time him: Robbie Lawler, who got totally
beat up and timed a big counter shot perfectly which gave him a K.O.
win. If you watch his fight against Tim Kennedy I don't have to explain
you that the ground unfortunately isn't Melvin's area. Melvin's
takedown defence is pretty decent though!
Given the fact that there are a lot of wrestlers in the
UFC, it is the most crucial matter that Melvin keeps the pressure and
keeps improving his takedown defence. This is simply his game at it's
best: keep it standing and keep the pace and pressure. I am 100%
convinced that IF he is able to do this, he can knock anybody out (Mark
Hunt, 2008). However, Melvin gets also older, and people know what to
expect with Melvin Manhoef. One thing is sure, Melvin will try to knock
anyone out, and isn't the least scared for a true brawl. I think he is a
true tester of young prospects in the UFC if they can handle a true
striker and know how to play the game. I am also convinced that a good
and smart wrestler can fairly easy beat Manhoef by NOT playing his game.
Of course in MMA that's always the case, but in Manhoef's case it's a
little more clear. On the other hand: in a stand-up war fireworks are
guaranteed, and a lot of interesting matchups can be made to let this
beast thunder in the octagon!
