UFC 153: Erick Silva's Keys to Victory

Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

Erick Silva will face a big step up in competition when he goes up against Jon Fitch at UFC 153. It is sure to be his most difficult test to date and should he emerge victorious, he will be vaulted up the welterweight ladder.

Let's explore some of the key points that Silva will need to follow in order to win this fight.

Press the Pace from the Get Go

Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

Silva is not by any means a slow starter. In his three UFC fights, he has swarmed his opponents right from the get-go.

He will need to do exactly that in his fight against Fitch.

Silva needs to press the pace and be explosive as soon the round starts. 

From there he needs to dictate where the fight goes with his striking and keep Fitch off balance.

Utilize His Vast Striking Array

Silva is a very diverse and powerful striker. He knocked out Luis Ramos with a big punch in forty seconds, proving he has power in his strikes.

He holds three victories by way of KO/TKO and has many dangerous striking weapons to use.

With lightning quick leg kicks, wicked knees, and powerful hooks at his disposal, Silva is obviously dangerous.

He will need to use all of his striking talents against a tough opponent like Fitch.

Avoid the Takedown

Mark Kolbe/Getty Images

This is the biggest thing Silva needs to do come fight time. Jon Fitch is a grinding wrestler who looks for the takedown every fight.

If Silva wants to win this fight, he needs to keep on his toes, keep his movement going and make sure Fitch stays on the outside and out of takedown range.

He is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, but Fitch has excellent submission defense. The smartest plan is to avoid the takedown at all costs.

If Silva can do all of these things and fight his own fight, then he should secure another win at UFC 153.

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