Bisping's relative weakness would appear to be his wrestling. He's gotten much better with his takedown defense, etc., but his wrestling is not at the level of his other capabilities
What Jorge Rivera (19-7) brings to the table: Rivera is a very good technical striker with power. What's more, he possesses solid takedown defense. In the end, he's the kind of guy that wants a striking battle. When he gets one, he's often successful.
That said, Rivera does sometimes get caught, both on his feet and on the ground. Along with this, he's lost fights by (T)KO to Anderson Silva, Chris Leben, and Terry Martin over the past six years (the Martin loss was in 2007). Further, his ground skills, though highly improved, are not a strength. He can be stopped on the canvas as well.
In other words, most of the time, either Rivera stops you or you stop him.
Michael Bisping vs. Jorge Rivera Prediction: Rivera has a chance to win this fight on his feet. That said, to underestimate Bisping's striking skills here would be a mistake. I think the thing that truly gives the UK fighter an advantage are his ground skills. He is just more well-rounded, which will give Rivera something else to think about on his feet; thereby, harming his ability to stand and bang without worry. In other words, Bisping's versatility should be the key.
Michael Bisping defeats Jorge Rivera by submission in round two.
