What Mark Hunt Should Look at in Junior Dos Santos' Fight with Roy Nelson

Mark Hunt is scheduled to fight Junior Dos Santos at UFC 160 on May 25, 2013. Hunt—in spite of his punching power and accuracy, which he exhibited in his last four bouts—is labeled as underdog between the two. Many experts think that his matchup with the former heavyweight champion will turn out to be like Dos Santos vs. Roy Nelson, which ended via unanimous decision in favor of Dos Santos.

Indeed, Hunt resembles Nelson in size, speed and striking style, although the former may possess the stronger punch. If Dos Santos’ fight with Nelson will be the basis, Hunt may as well end up on the losing side at UFC 160.

But this should not derail Hunt in his quest for a victory. Instead, he should take the time to study the fight and learn some useful pointers. 

Pointer No. 1: Dos Santos Will Out-Strike You

At UFC 117, Cigano out-struck Nelson by a total of 98 strikes but was not able to stop the Big Country. This was no surprise considering the speed advantage that the champion possesses. He is expected to exhibit the same accuracy of strikes in his battle against Hunt.

How Hunt should capitalize on this

Hunt should expect to be hit several times. The good thing? He should not come down easily (Dos Santos was not able to knock out Shane Carwin and Nelson), and he will be able to land a couple of his own against his opponent, which leads us to… 

Pointer No. 2: You Can Land a Punch on Dos Santos

Nelson landed 40 significant strikes against Dos Santos, but most occurred during the latter rounds wherein Nelson was already gassed out. The former champ was able to absorb the blows, proving that he too has a durable chin. However…

How Hunt should capitalize on this

Hunt should be confident knowing that he can hit Dos Santos. If he could provide the same torque in his punch that he used in knocking down three of his four previous opponents, he has a chance.

Pointer No. 3: Dos Santos Will Attempt a Takedown

Dos Santos attempted two takedowns and landed one during his fight with Nelson. It seems that Cigano has integrated takedowns in his game to surprise opponents.

How Hunt should capitalize on this

Hunt should prepare for the worst—being taken down by Dos Santos and controlled on the ground. He should have improved more on his takedown defense, with the possibility that the Brazilian will take the fight on the ground.