Roy Nelson vs. Daniel Cormier
Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sport
Craig Amos
Cormier plans on making a run at 205 next year, but not because he can't hack it at heavyweight. He'll prove he fits in just fine by dismantling a quality big-boy in Roy Nelson at
UFC 166, bullying him around the Octagon and avoiding his power. Cormier is rarely thrilling but always effective, and that should once more prove the case this Saturday.
Cormier, Unanimous decision
James MacDonald
This is a tough task for Roy Nelson, particularly if his training camp has been as disastrous as he recently let on. “Big Country” always has the potential to land that missile-like overhand right, but I don’t see him catching Daniel Cormier on Saturday night. The former Olympic wrestler is technically superior and will, if he so chooses, out-strike Nelson on the feet. He needn’t even mess with Roy’s underrated ground game.
Cormier, Knockout, Rd. 3
Riley Kontek
This is the first fight ever where both parties signed to fight each other on a bar napkin. However, the excitement is pretty much going to stop there. Roy Nelson has been out-wrestled in the past by Frank Mir, who is not nearly on the level wrestling-wise as Daniel Cormier. Cormier will set up his takedowns with strikes, shoot and hold Big Country down. The judges will see a clear decision.
Cormier, Unanimous Decision
Sean Smith
Nelson isn't going to be able to score a takedown and work from the top against an Olympic wrestler in Cormier, so his only shot at scoring an upset win at UFC 166 may be to land one of his huge overhand rights or right uppercuts. Cormier should be able to limit the risk of getting hit with Nelson's right hand by dirty boxing against the cage and mixing in takedowns en route to a decision victory.
Cormier, Unanimous decision
Scott Harris
I just heard some burbling sound. It's Roy Nelson, after being smothered to death by Cormier. For the record, Nelson is an outstanding grappler, and his gut and bird's nest beard tend to occlude that. Fact is, Cormier will be better prepared, though, and he has to get this win before he drops to 205. Burble on, Roy. Burble on.
Cormier, Unanimous decision