UFC 152: Cub Swanson vs. Charles Oliveira Head-to-Toe Breakdown

An exciting featherweight showdown is on the horizon, as UFC 152 plays host to a potential contenders bout between Charles Oliveira and Cub Swanson. 

Both men have looked great in the UFC's featherweight division. Other than one setback against Ricardo Lamas, Swanson has looked like a world-beater. Oliveira's 145-lb. record remains in tact, so this is another important stepping stone for the Brazilian.

Here is a head-to-toe breakdown of the fight set to take place over the weekend.

Striking

As of late, Cub Swanson's striking has been the shining spot of his game. However, Charles Oliveira is also a skilled striker that will be tough to engage.

Swanson owns six knockout wins to his name, but lately two have come in impressive fashion. He earned knockouts against George Roop and Ross Pearson, both impressive feats in the cage.

Oliveira also owns six knockout victories, but none have come in the UFC. His last striking knockout came in 2008, though his striking is usually a setup to get opponents to the ground.

That said, the Greg Jackson product earns the edge here.

Edge: Swanson

Wrestling

Neither man comes from a wrestling background, so this is going to be a tough observation. 

Cub Swanson doesn't really have power takedowns, nor does Charles Oliveira. But, Oliveira has solid takedown defense and underrated offensive takedowns.

Either way, I can't decide whose wrestling is better.

Edge: Push

Grappling/Submissions

The submission/grappling aspect of this fight is a huge difference and possible "x-factor."

Cub Swanson, although a decent submission fighter, is simply not in Charles Oliveira's league. He does own seven submission wins, but you must first check out the rap sheet of Oliveira.

A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, every one of Oliveira's wins in the UFC have been impressive submissions. They have come over the likes of Darren Elkins (armbar), Efrain Escudero (standing rear-naked choke), Eric Wisely (reverse calf slicer) and Jonathan Brookins (anaconda choke).

The edge is obvious here.

Edge: Oliveira 

Prediction

This fight has all the makings of an exciting classic.

This fight will start with striking, and believe me, it will be good. Eventually, Oliveira will snag a takedown and go to work.

I expect Oliveira to completely outclass Swanson on the ground. There, he will earn another flashy submission win.

Prediction: Oliveira def. Swanson via submission