UFC 171 is fast approaching, and the fans eagerly await fight night on Saturday. That is because one of the most stacked cards in recent memory could provide a clearer vision of certain weight classes, especially the welterweight division.
The card is headlined by Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler, who will fight for the vacant welterweight title. The co-feature will see Carlos Condit face Tyron Woodley, which could provide the first contender to the winner of Lawler vs. Hendricks.
Before we think of all that, let's take a look at who might be walking home with some extra change in their pocket. As usual, the performance bonuses will be based on the best knockout and submission that may come from the event.
Performance of the Night No. 1: Carlos Condit
Who takes POTN No. 1?
Many people think that Tyron Woodley is going to grind out Carlos Condit. I have a hunch that Condit can outgrapple and submit Woodley.
"The Natural Born Killer" has a very tricky, slick guard. He throws up triangle chokes and armbars like they're nothing, in addition to having good sweeps and the ability to get back on his feet.
There is also a chance he could catch Woodley late with a striking stoppage. Either way, Condit will walk away with a bonus check in his pocket.
Also in the running: Daniel Pineda, Jessica Andrade
Performance of the Night No. 2: Alex Garcia
Alex Garcia is a powerful man. Like really powerful.
Who takes POTN No. 2?
He has dynamite in his hands and can end a fight with one punch. He takes on a boxer in Sean Spencer who will stay on the feet and try to out-technique Garcia.
However, as mentioned, the Dominican-Canadian just needs one shot. At some point, he will land on Spencer in a way that makes men concussed and disoriented.
Did I mention that Garcia is really powerful? Oh, I did? Well that will lead to a knockout and a nice bonus.
Also in the running: Sean Strickland, Ovince St. Preux
Fight of the Night: Johny Hendricks vs. Robbie Lawler
Unless the main event is a lay-and-pray fest or a quick knockout, it is going to be a fun fight. That is because both Hendricks and Lawler are power-punching maniacs with a knack for making things interesting.
Who wins FOTN?
Lawler is as tough as nails, which may force Hendricks to have to land more than one of his patented bombs. "Ruthless" can knock anybody out as well, which will show us if Hendricks can take a punch.
Whatever happens, you can bet these two men are leaving Dallas with an extra $50,000 apiece. What needs to be decided is who will exit the cage with the belt made of gold and leather.
Also in the running: Carlos Condit vs. Tyron Woodley, Diego Sanchez vs. Myles Jury, Raquel Pennington vs. Jessica Andrade, Dennis Bermudez vs. Jimy Hettes