Anderson Silva vs. Michael Bisping: A Head-to-Toe Breakdown

Anderson Silva was the longtime champion at 185 pounds, and Michael Bisping was a longtime top contender. But the fight just never came to fruition.

Now, in 2016, we are merely days away from finally getting to witness these two clash inside the cage. It does not have the hype it would have received in the days of yore, and it is relegated to UFC Fight Pass, but it is still a meaningful fight at middleweight.

Silva makes his first return since his yearlong suspension. A big win will help to repair his legacy. As for Bisping, the Brit has never gotten the privilege of challenging for UFC gold. Defeating one of the greatest of all time may elevate him into prime position to finally have a shot at the ultimate prize.

The two Top 10 contenders can enter the discussion for a title shot with an impressive victory in London. Which begs the question—who has the edge on Saturday?

Striking

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There should be little doubt as to who has the edge in the striking department. It's Silva. However, do not sleep on Bisping's stand-up tools. While Silva has the decided edge, Bisping is no slouch and makes this a closer category than most would believe.

Bisping is a volume puncher. He doesn't have the one-shot KO power that puts fear into his opponents, but an unrelenting assault of constant strikes wears down his opposition.

What really gives Silva the edge is his all-around striking capabilities. Bisping is primarily a boxer, and if Silva wanted to just box, it could be a fairly even contest. But that isn't what The Spider does. He offers up so much more and can end the fight with one precise blow.

What happens if Bisping lands one clean shot? Is Silva's chin going away at his advanced age? We don't know yet. Perhaps we'll find out, but until then I'll trust in the advantage he owns while the fight is on the feet.

Edge: Silva

Grappling

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The grappling is one of the most interesting aspects of this fight.

Bisping is an underrated wrestler, and Silva may be even more underrated. However, neither man will actively make it a priority this weekend. The grappling is more likely to happen in the clinch up against the cage. And I lean toward the Brazilian in that area.

Silva has done fantastic work throughout his career against the fence. He has also surprised many with his strength from the position. Bisping doesn't have the physical strength to manhandle Silva.

It's a closer category than the striking, but I still give the nod to Silva.

Edge: Silva

Submissions

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The submission portion of this fight should be in Silva's favor, but I wouldn't expect a submission victory.

Bisping is one of the best defensive fighters when put in precarious positions. The submission loss to Luke Rockhold was his only defeat by submission. He has defended every other attempt throughout his career.

Silva's submission style likely won't be too much of an issue for Bisping unless he gets hurt. If The Count has his wits about him, then expect Silva to just look for opportunities to ground and pound. That is, if the fight hits the canvas.

The former champion's black belt reigns supreme between the two, but I wouldn't count on it being a big factor in London.

Edge: Silva

X-Factors

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Bisping's X-Factor: Distance

The Brit cannot be stuck on the outside all night against Silva. He needs to get in range in order to throw punches in bunches.

Silva has done an extraordinary job of using his jab and movement to keep fighters at bay. And if they do get in close, he clinches up. Finding the sweet spot to be in striking range without getting tied up will prove difficult, but crucial, for Bisping this weekend.

Silva's X-Factor: Physical Decline

Bisping is no spring chicken, but his style isn't predicated as much on physical attributes as Silva's style has been.

Silva is a counter-striker and uses reaction speed and timing to obliterate his opponents. Those physical gifts deteriorate over time. In 2007, this matchup would look like a one-sided mauling waiting to happen. But in 2016, there are a lot of questions including ones about his chin.

If Silva's physical tools have diminished, then the odds of a Bisping victory go way up.

Prediction

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A feeling has been growing that Bisping is going to upset Silva in front of his home crowd, but I just cannot pull the trigger.

Do I really believe Silva will win, or is the part of me that has been a fan of him for so long refusing to let go of the notion that he is the greatest artist we have ever seen inside the cage? I cannot answer that.

How will he get it done?

The matchup, on paper, still favors him across the board. If he has the speed advantage, then he'll eventually land a counter and plaster Bisping on the canvas. I don't know if he can have another spectacular highlight-reel finish, but I do believe he can stun and swarm Bisping.

Silva finishes The Count with multiple shots against the cage.

Prediction: Silva defeats Bisping by TKO in the third round.