UFC Fight Night 36 Preview
Oliveira vs. Ogle
Charles Oliveira, 24, has lost back-to-back bouts for the first
time in his career. | Photo: D. Mandel/Sherdog.com
Featherweights
Charles Oliveira (16-4, 4-4 UFC) vs. Andy Ogle (9-3, 1-2 UFC)The Matchup: Oliveira enters this bout having lost two straight, but that slump is somewhat deceiving, as the Brazilian’s setbacks have come at the hands of top-5 featherweights Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson. While Oliveira has generally faltered against top competition at various weight classes -- 155-pound losses to Donald Cerrone and Jim Miller also come to mind -- he is capable of being extremely dominant against mid-to-lower-level talent.
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“Do Bronx” is the longer, more athletic fighter, and he figures to be able to duplicate -- or better -- what Cole Miller did against Ogle at UFC Night 30. Miller was able to control Ogle with his grappling for the better part of two rounds, transitioning from position to position at will before holding off a late rally from his opponent.
The Englishman is game enough on the feet, with his right hand serving as his preferred weapon, but he does his best work when he can land takedowns and ground-and-pound from top position. The problem here is that Oliveira possesses an active guard, so he is not averse to working from his back. Ogle has found himself in some tight spots before, and his willingness to be aggressive with strikes inside his opponent’s guard will only increase the risk in this one.
Oliveira had difficulty with Edgar’s speed, footwork and accuracy, but he is generally aggressive in exchanges. He will attack with punches and flying knees, especially when he does not fear his opponent’s knockout power. Still, the Brazilian’s best path to victory is his submission game.
The Pick: Ogle surrenders position too easily on the mat, and he will pay for it here. Oliveira wins this by submission in round two.
Last Fights » The Prelims
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