by Monta Wiley
It is really crazy how time flies in the world of mixed martial arts. It only seemed like yesterday when the UFC was shaken to its core by an unexpected visit from a mysterious fighter who would go on to stake his claim as the best pound for pound fighter in the world today.
Since his arrival in 2006 current UFC Middleweight champion Anderson “The Spider” Silva has undoubtedly made an everlasting impression on the industry that will forever be unmatched. 13 casualties have fell victim to his wrath in the octagon, which leaves the burning question pondered by fans and critics, WHO CAN STOP THIS GUY?!
Various speculations have run rapid about a possible confrontation with George St-Pierre or even Jon Jones. However all of these possibilities have fallen short which leaves an open opportunity for someone in the middleweight division a chance to do what no one have done before in the UFC. Waiting in wings is an unlikely but formidable opponent that has all the assets it takes to dethrone the champion. Enter Chris “All American” Weidman.
Looks may be deceiving and many may ponder what makes him different. Nevertheless many points play key roles in Weidman being Silva’s biggest upcoming challenge to date. Every fighter in the sport especially in the UFC must pay their dues in their rise to the top. With an extensive background as a collegiate NCAA wrestler and a quarter-finalist in the ADCC Submission Grappling Championship, “The All American” is no stranger to hard work and dedication toward achieving goals. This past success has transferred to his current occupation as a fighter which explains his undefeated record of 9-0 as a pro.
From an overall skill set analysis Weidman has shown well rounded performance in all his fights from the top to the bottom. Proof of this assumption can be seen in his victories over Damien Maia and fellow wrestler Mark Munoz. The majority of the champ’s opponents were one dimensional only relying on one main trait to get them through the battle. Illustrations are exposed in his decimation’s with Forrest Griffin’s striking and even Chael Sonnen’s wrestling. This flaw has allowed the champion to formulate a strategy to annihilate his foes one by one at the greatest of ease.
From a mental standpoint the New York native is defiantly up for the challenge. Being Young, talented, and extremely hungry is a deadly triple combo for anyone to contend with. He has not put on any wild outrageous promos or slideshows to beef up a fight but rather promote himself through the media on his abilities and great potential of defeating Anderson Silva.
As UFC history has displayed over the years all good things must come to an end and every great champion’s reign won’t last forever. With many memories to look back on at this point in the game Anderson Silva is running out of options for people to fight which may have decreased his competitive drive. This is a weakness Weidman looks to capitalize on in his quest for the gold.
The timeline of the middleweight division has been ruled by two major eras. Rich Franklin was the Past that solidified it. Anderson Silva is the Present who elevated it. When you look into the future the champion will reads Chris Weidman who will transcend it
