UFC Fight Night 33 Preview

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Middleweights

Clint Hester (8-3, 1-0 UFC) vs. Dylan Andrews (17-4, 2-0 UFC)

The Matchup: Andrews carries a six-fight winning streak into the bout, including Octagon triumphs over Jimmy Quinlan and Papy Abedi. Prior to his promotional debut, Andrews competed on Season 17 of “The Ultimate Fighter, falling to Uriah Hall in the semifinals.

Hester also appeared on “The Ultimate Fighter 17” and was the first pick of UFC light heavyweight champion Jon Jones. The former professional boxer failed to live up to expectations, however, as he struggled to defend takedowns and was dispatched by Quinlan in an opening-round matchup. The 27-year-old Georgian seemed to improve on his weakness in his UFC debut, successfully defending six of nine takedown attempts against Bristol Marunde. That allowed him to display more of his striking, as he dropped his opponent with a right hook in round one before finishing the contest with a wicked standing elbow in the third. In between, Hester rocked Marunde with an upkick from his back.

Andrews is fairly well-rounded, but he can thank his hands for both of his UFC victories. He will attack with hooks and uppercuts, and his ability to switch stances could keep Hester off-balance. Eventually, Andrews will want to test his opponent’s takedown defense.

While he can be tentative at times, Hester has a stout jab and can generate power in tight spots. If he can remain upright, he will be able to outpoint Andrews by landing quick combinations. He has also displayed the ability to land some solid knees in the clinch; the more varied his offense, the better.

The Pick: This has the potential to be a slugfest. Hester takes it by TKO in round two or three.

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