Friday night in Las Vegas, Jake Ellenberger meets Martin Kampmann in the main event of The Ultimate Fighter Live finale. It’s a pivotal matchup as the winner could be next in line for a shot at UFC welterweight title.
Georges St-Pierre is currently expected to defend his belt against Carlos Condit, but he remains sidelined with a knee injury. Depending on how Friday’s headlining bout shakes out, could there be a change in plans?
Here, six sportsnet.ca MMA contributors give their picks for Friday’s Jake Ellenberger vs. Martin Kampmann.
Dwight Wakabayashi, Bleacher Report: Ellenberger by TKO
Kampmann is a gamer and one of my favorite fighters in the UFC, but when these two hit each other, Ellenberger’s power will give him the edge and lead him to landing that shot to victory.
Mark Prior, The Daily Press: Ellenberger by decision
Ellenberger has heavier hands and better wrestling. Kampman is tough but I think Ellenberger is going to land more effective shots.
Matt Carson, The Cheap Seats: Ellenberger by decision
Kampmann has way too much trouble with strong wrestlers. Ellenberger will play this one safe and not try to strike with the striker.
Carlin Bardsley, MMA Sucka: Kampmann by decision
I think this will be a standup war with Ellenberger trying to prove he’s as good as Kampmann on the feet. This strategy will ultimately be his undoing as Kampmann is the more dangerous, more technical striker.
Brad Taschuk, Taz MMA: Ellenberger by TKO
I was tempted to pick Kampmann by late submission, but his history against heavy hitters — even in fights he’s won — just cannot be overlooked. Ellenberger has refined his striking to the point that he will find the chin of his very hittable foe early and often.
Mike Johnston, sportsnet.ca: Ellenberger by TKO
Kampmann has the more well-rounded skill set, but based on punching power and Kampmann’s willingness to eat shots, Ellenberger will take it.
POLL:
Who will win Friday’s main event?
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Watch The Ultimate Fighter Live finale main card starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT on FX Canada. Four preliminary fights will air on Sportsnet ONE starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. You can also follow live results on sportsnet.ca starting at 6:45 p.m. ET / 3:45 p.m. PT.
