UFC 141 Predictions: Vladimir Matyushenko vs. Alexander Gustafsson

Light heavyweight veteran Vladimir Matyushenko is set to collide with 205-pound Swedish prospect Alexander Gustafsson at UFC 141. 

Matyushenko is entering the bout after coming off a knockout victory over Jason Brillz earlier this year at UFC 129. "The Janitor" is one of the most experienced fighters in the sport today, holding wins over Pedro Rizzo, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira and Vernon White.

The Belarusian has some of the best grappling in the division, and he will look to make his upcoming matchup with Gustafsson a competitive one.

Gustafsson is one of the most promising fighters at 205-pounds, already holding a 12-1 professional record at just 24 years old.

With victories over respected fighters like Matt Hamill and Cyrille Diabate, the Swedish prospect is slowly becoming a legitimate threat in the light heavyweight division. Utilizing dynamic striking and exceptional submission and grappling, Gustafsson will hope to earn his fourth consecutive win over Matyushenko.

The 40-year-old Matyushenko is still a very durable competitor and holds a lot of experience, which should help him have considerable success attempting to neutralize his opponent's stand-up with his grappling. 

However, Gustafsson is much faster and athletic than Matyushenko and should look to utilize his offense on his opponent to look for an opening. Gustafsson's height and reach should give him better leverage and it should also allow him to land more effective shots.

Ultimately, his dynamic striking should overwhelm Matyushenko and earn him the stoppage.

Prediction: Alexander Gustafsson second-round TKO.