Hector Lombard vs. Tim Boetsch: Final Preview and Prediction

UFC 149 is finally here. Despite the numerous injuries that have plagued the event, the show must and will go on.

In the co-main event, Hector Lombard will make his long-awaited UFC debut as he takes on Tim Boetsch.

With a fight that features two sluggers like this one, you can bet that it will end with a knockout.

It’s Lombard’s hype taking on Boetsch's rise in the middleweight division.

Here’s what you should watch for in this fight.

Who will have the most hype coming into the fight?

Both Lombard and Boetsch are coming into this fight with a lot of hype.

Lombard comes into this fight on a very lengthy winning streak and as the long-reigning former Bellatore middleweight champion.

Lombard is also known for ending fights very quickly and violently.

The thing that Boetsch has over Lombard, though, is that he has won in the UFC.

In fact, Boetsch has been perfect since dropping down to middleweight. That includes a win over former title contender Yushin Okami. 

While many will point out Lombard’s stats first, keep in mind Boetsch is a tough fighter and has proven he can win in the UFC.

Will takedowns be a factor?

While this looks like a fight where both men can keep the fight standing, keep in mind they both could utilize their takedowns.

Boetsch comes from a wrestling background and has had some great judo throws thus far in his career.

Lombard is a tough guy to take down, though, and is a 4th Dan black belt in Judo.

If takedowns become a factor, I give the advantage to Lombard.

Who goes down first?

Although Boetsch has a lot of power in his punches, it’s hard to go against Lombard’s ability.

Lombard has had some spectacular knockouts in his career and could very well have another one tonight.

While Boetsch has proven he could take a beating, he has also proven to be a slow starter.

That’s something that you don’t want to be against Lombard, who always looks to take guys out in the first round.

If the fight goes the distance, I like Boetsch's chances, but if it ends early, Lombard will be the victor. 

Who will win the fight?

This fight will come down to Lombard’s hype versus Boetsch's heart.

While Boetsch has proven to be a tough fighter, Lombard could be a very different animal.

If Lombard doesn’t have any octagon jitters, he could and should end this fight in the first round by knockout.