In some ways it’s fitting that Josh Koscheck will fight on a card today that will feature Georges St. Pierre taking on Johny Hendricks. After all, it wasn’t that long ago–in the grand scheme of things–when many people were citing the punching power and wrestling skills of “Kos”, as to why he was a serious threat to GSP’s reign. As you likely know, however, St. Pierre won both of their bouts via unanimous decision (and in their second clash Koscheck had his orbital bone broken).
It’s also worth nothing that Koscheck has fought Hendricks before , as at UFC on FOX 3 last May, the latter emerged with a split decision win. Thus, there aren’t too many more qualified people to ask for a prediction on the UFC 167 headliner. While speaking to MMA Fighting.com recently, here’s what the 35 year-old had to say about GSP-Hendricks:
“I think Georges St-Pierre will have the edge,” said Koscheck. “For one, he’s got the experience fighting 25 minutes. Two, he’s got more experience sticking to his game plan. He’s methodical and picks guys apart. I think his cardio will be better. Hendricks has a habit of getting fat when he’s not training. GSP is ripped and in training all-year round.”
Interesting. Although following his decision loss to Hendricks, Koscheck was stopped by Robbie Lawler at UFC on FOX 8 this past July, naturally the fighter believes he still has what it takes to be a force in the welterweight division. That’s what makes his bout today with Tyron Woodley so important, as an impressive win could serve notice he remains in the mix.
“I believe I’m still right there with the best guys,” said Koscheck, who also relayed he believes he defeated Hendricks. “I really truly believe that. I just have to go out and perform. Most of the time, it’s me beating myself. I’ve got to make a statement and believe that I can put it on this guy (Woodley) and get the victory.”
It’s also a big fight for Woodley, who after stopping Jay Hieron in his Octagon debut, lost by split decision to Jake Shields at UFC 161. UFC 167 will go down at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
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