Alan Belcher vs. Chris Weidman Head-to-Toe Breakdown

Among the top contenders in the middleweight division are Alan Belcher and Chris Weidman. Though it is not certain who their next opponents are and where they will fight, a hypothetical matchup between the two is quite enticing.

Both men are vastly different. Belcher is a long-time veteran of the sport just bursting into the title picture. Weidman is young gun, bursting into the title picture in the early part of his career.

Here is a head-to-toe breakdown of the two, should they ever meet.

Striking

Many fans were treated to Chris Weidman's development in the striking department in his last fight, but many forget how talented Alan Belcher is in the kickboxing aspect of fighting.

Belcher owns nine knockouts in his career, including stoppages of Rousimar Palhares, Jason MacDonald (submission to strikes) and Wilson Gouveia. Belcher is very technical with solid power as well.

Weidman is still working on his striking, despite putting Mark Munoz to sleep in his last outing. The beginning of the end came as Weidman threw a devastating overhand elbow that clipped Munoz.

All in all, one has to think "The Talent" will have the striking advantage.

Edge: Belcher

Wrestling

If there's one complete disadvantage Alan Belcher would have in this fight, it would be in the wrestling department.

For one thing, Chris Weidman is an All-American wrestler who uses that part of his game to stifle opponents. This has been seen in his victories over Alessio Sakara and Demian Maia.

Belcher himself has decent wrestling, but it's nowhere on Weidman's level. Therefore, this decision is simple.

Edge: Weidman

Grappling/Submissions

Many underrate the grappling ability that Alan Belcher owns, seeing as he is a complete threat on the ground.

Similarly, the submission and grappling game of Chris Weidman is a threat to all opponents. He is an accomplished submission fighter on the international scene, due to his work with Matt Serra and years of wrestling experience.

Both men are talented in terms of submission grappling. But, the all-around prowess that Weidman brings is too good for most, meaning he earns the nod here.

Edge: Weidman

Prediction

Chris Weidman and Alan Belcher's hypothetical meeting is one to get excited about, as they would provide a top-notch fight for fans.

Were they to meet, I would expect a wrestling-heavy attack from Weidman with Belcher fighting off takedowns. Belcher's takedown defense is not good enough to stop Weidman from planting him on the mat, but his aggressive submission game from his back is threatening enough to halt Weidman in his tracks.

It would be a pretty bland fight, with Belcher fighting off Weidman's advances on the ground and Weidman getting frustrated from the lack of finish.

The judges would be called in and they would award the winner their possible title shot.

Prediction: Weidman def. Belcher via decision