UFC 96, Jardine Not to Be Over-Looked

In an interview with Joe Rogan at UFC 95, Quinton Jackson made what was probably a comedic attempt at suggesting that his own striking ability was less technical than Keith Jardine's.  Joe Rogan immediately corrected him, as if there was a single MMA fan out there somewhere that needed to be reminded that Rampage is one of the most technical counter-punchers that the sport has ever seen.

We can expect to see Jackson tagging Jardine early in the fight with a counter punch, whether it be with a vicious uppercut like the one that almost ended Forrest Griffin early in his fight for the belt, or, as Jackson would call it, the "tuck-and-roll" counter that demolished Wanderlei Silva in UFC 92. 

The question, however, will be whether or not Jardine can take the early hit.  While no one disputes Jardine's striking power, his chin has been questionable.  No MMA fan needs to strain their brain to remember Jardine's unconscious body sprawled across the mat against both Houston Alexander and Wanderlei Silva. 

Ironically enough, Jardine's chin has only been put to the test against less technical strikers.  Perhaps it is a lack of respect or over excitement that causes Jardine to barge in on his less tactical opponents, but regardless of the reason, the "Dean of Mean" paid the price for his arrogance. 

Jardine takes a more defensive, poised, and over-all more effective approach against those fighters who are more renowned for their technical striking.  It was clear that Jardine had done his homework against Liddell and seemed to have "The Iceman's" style picked apart before he had even entered the ring.  Likewise, Jardine's most recent win over Brandon Vera displayed a patient, well thought-out, strategic victory over a fighter who could easily be considered the purest Muay-thai practitioner in the light-heavy weight division. 

A cool and composed Jardine could pose a major threat against Jackson's aspirations for another title shot.  If Jackson isn't able to put Jardine down early, Jardine will inevitably be able to feel Jackson out, establish his awkward rhythm, and proceed to pick Jackson apart.  Jardine will not forget Griffin's lesson to us all that Jackson can sometimes be heavy on his front leg, and we can expect to see the same kicks that Jardine used to neutralize Liddellbeing targetted upon this weakness and leading to another disappointing loss via decision for Jackson. 

Perhaps MMA fans shouldn't already be talking about Jackson vs. Evans.   Avmatch-up between Keith Jardine and Rashad Evans, a fight that both fighters promised would never happen, may be the bout thats on the horizon.  Not only does Jardine have a legitimate shot at defeating Jackson, but with talks of Ken Vs. Frank Shamrock in the air, MMA fans should know that in this sport, any match-up is possible.