UFC 144 Fight Card: Questions We Have About Jake Shields

Once considered one of the top pound-for-pound fighters not competing in the UFC, former Strikeforce champion Jake Shields has had a bumpy road since transitioning to the world's largest Mixed Martial Arts promotion.

For years, Shields was lauded as one of the most effective and dangerous ground fighters in the game. His self-described American Jiu-Jitsu was a feared combination of wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, aiding in his legendary victories over Jason Miller, Dan Henderson, Paul Daley, Robbie Lawler, Carlos Condit and Yushin Okami—the last two occurring in the same night.

But ever since his UFC debut—a controversial win over welterweight Martin Kampmann—Shields's skills in the cage have not lived up to his impressive history, as he now finds himself on the brink of getting a pink slip from the promotion. Specifically, Shields's striking ability has met some serious criticism.

In his win against Kampmann, some analysts scored the fight in favor of the Dutch striker who they believe out-pointed Shields in the stand-up department. Although that bout was too close to call, his next two outings were complete busts, as he was easily defeated by reigning welterweight champion Georges St. Pierre and was brutally knocked out by Jake Ellenberger in just 53 seconds.

Fans and critics alike know Shields' pedigree as a grappler, but his lack of a well-rounded MMA game is a real hindrance to his progression in the sport.  His striking skills may hold up against the middle of the pack, but against top competition, it just won't due.

Another big question, stemming from his last fight against Ellenberger, Shields's chin is a target to scrutinize.  Never has anyone laid the former Strikeforce champion out like that and, tonight, the sight could be repeated due to Yoshihiro Akiyama's well-known heavy hands. The judo black belt would be wise to keep the fight standing and look for the finishing blow.

If Shields ever wants to reclaim his status as a top pound-for-pound fighter, he has to prove that he can stand and trade with "Sexyama" and not just grind his way to victory at tonight's UFC 144.