So what kind of Tito Ortiz we're going to get at UFC 121 is hard to know.
What Matt Hamill (9-2) brings to the table: Hamill is a former three time Division 3 National Champion wrestler, so takedowns, takedown defense, and ground control are certainly within his repertoire. He's also as strong as an ox and comes to fight in shape. In addition, his striking skills have improved significantly since his TUF days. Along with this, he hits very hard and is technically sound.
The interesting thing about Hamill, is that he rarely uses his wrestling skills in the cage to the extent that many feel he could/should. He's also not very fast or elusive.
Tito Ortiz vs. Matt Hamill Prediction: This is a very hard fight to call. I have a feeling that neither fighter will go into this looking to bring the fight to the ground all night. In other words, I believe this is going to be a striking battle between two guys that have a lot of respect for the others' wrestling, which will compel them to stand for the majority of the encounter.
Ortiz is a smarter tactician on his feet in the Octagon, in my opinion. But Hamill's sheer power coupled with Ortiz's neck problems will be the difference. There is no escaping the fact that neck issues tend to impact training extensively, and I have a feeling that Hamill will have better staying power in this one as a result.
Matt Hamill defeats Tito Ortiz by decision.
