Jake Shields vs GSP Fight Prediction

Jake Shields could win, if GSP attempts to clinch with him; with a flying armbar or a flying triangle choke.

I say this because nobody has attempted this on GSP before and, if he were to clinch with Shields, it might catch him off guard.  While GSP is not huge on Muay Thai clinching, he has done it in the past (briefly).

In my opinion, this is the only way Jake Shields can win.

If GSP maintains distance, Jake has no chance whatsoever.

Jake Shields hits lightly, gases easily, has un-explosive (though fairly effective) takedowns, seems woefully un-athletic, has seemingly very inexperienced and underdeveloped striking, and, from the fights I've seen of him...  he just isn't in the same league as GSP.

(But then who is, other than Anderson Silva?)

I gave Dan Hardy more of a chance, honestly.  Because he had a puncher's chance.  

Anyone with knockout power (ahem: skilled knockout power.  Please nobody mention Josh Koscheck's bar brawler punches) has at least 5 chances to win against GSP before he takes them down and has his way with them for 4.9 minutes.

Someone hoping to win against GSP via submission, on the other hand... has virtually no chance: Unless they utilized a flying technique.

I say this because GSP has quite good takedown defense, quite crisp striking, great footwork and distancing.  Jake Shields is not going to be able to bypass these attributes with his sloppy footwork, inept striking and mushy takedowns.  He just isn't.

No takedowns, no submissions (again, unless he attempts a flying technique)

So:  Watch for the flying armbar attempts.  But my money is still on GSP.

Sensei Ono,

Owner of Shinka Martial Arts

Author of The Key to Awesome