UFC 185: Roy Nelson vs. Alistair Overeem Head-to-Toe Breakdown

Before the lights dim low and Anthony Pettis defends his lightweight title at UFC 185, two heavyweights will take to the Octagon in vicious manner.

As members of the division's Top 10 club, No. 8 Roy Nelson and No. 9 Alistair Overeem are capable of knocking each other's heads clean off.

With prolific striking from the muscle-framed Overeem and heavy-handed knockout power from Nelson's big-bellied torso, the possibilities are endless.

Now while it would seem as if The Reem possesses a distinct advantage coming into Saturday's tilt due in part to his exceedingly superior reach and range, Nelson's steel chin and iron fists could get his hand raised when it all said and done.

Here is a full head-to-toe breakdown for what could shape up to be a barnburner.

Striking Precision

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With a longer frame, quicker hands and superior technique, Overeem should be able to land his shots whenever he wants.

Nelson is no slouch in the striking department, but "precision" doesn't apply to the veteran, outside of perfectly timed knockout punches.

His approach has worked in the past, but it's going to be hard to get inside on The Reem, especially when he can land knees, elbows and straight punches in succession.

Truth be told, Overeem has lost a step throughout his UFC tenure, but his skill level and kickboxing knowledge remain dangerously potent.

Advantage: Overeem

Punching Power

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Heavyweights are known for their power.

It's one of the reasons why the weight class is so popular among fans.

And when it comes to big men who can sling leather, Nelson remains one of the best in the game.

With spectacular finishes to call his own, he has been known to shut his opponents' lights off by implementing his valued overhand right.

The 38-year-old does all he can to set up this end-fighting technique, but he fails to avoid damage in the process.

Overeem could even out the power meter should he find success with body kicks, but Nelson's heavy-handed fire will be too hot to play with.

Advantage: Nelson

Wrestling

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Neither Nelson nor Overeem is known for his wrestling.

Nelson is probably more prone to attempt a takedown should his power falter on his feet, but he's not the most athletic heavyweight around.

His speed and conditioning often get in the way of him dragging an opponent to the ground in the later rounds.

As for Overeem, who has had his fair share of success in defending takedowns, wrestling his probably his least desirable attribute.

He has been able to stay in top position when he gets there because of his strong and powerful frame, but that's not exactly the type of Grade A wrestling we're talking about.

Luckily for fight fans, this should be the least-contested portion of the fight.

Push

Grappling

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Believe it or not, Nelson is known for more than just his power.

With one of the better grappling games at the professional MMA level, the knockout specialist actually has one heck of a ground game.

Nelson has yet to be submitted in 30 career fights, proving that a black belt under Renzo Gracie is more than just an accolade.

Now, while that type of success puts him in a league of distinct individuals, Overeem has also showcased worthwhile grappling skills throughout the years, securing 19 total victories via submission.

His ground game is in place as more of a support system to score points than a means of finishing fights, but Overeem is no pushover when the fight hits the canvas.

However, with the perfect track record that Nelson brings to the cage, Big Country gets the nod.

Advantage: Nelson

Intangibles

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There's no arguing that Nelson is one of the more popular knockout specialists in the UFC today.

His Octagon tendencies appeal to the masses, and for that we expect him to prolong his powerful performances moving forward.

But with a depleted striking pallet and a motor made from plastic, Nelson has transformed into a one-trick pony over his past few fights.

On the other hand, Overeem has finally found an even ground in recent performances, which has allowed him to abandon his aggressive attacks should a different approach suit him better.

This includes his ragdolling of Frank Mir and his patient striking opposite Stefan Struve.

At the moment, Overeem seems like the more complete fighter and a title-hungry veteran who will do anything it takes to finally make a run at promotional gold.

Advantage: Overeem

Verdict

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At the end of the day, Overeem's physical advantages are too prominent to ignore.

From his crisp striking to a distinct reach advantage, The Reem has the tools to pick Nelson apart like a broken-down dartboard.

Big Country is considered a one-punch destroyer for a reason and could certainly secure a flash knockout, but Overeem should once again have the patience and right mindset to wait for the biggest windows.

And considering Nelson's looping power punches give opponents the opportunity to counter on cue, Overeem could have a field day.

Of course, this is assuming the hulking heavyweight doesn't get caught up in a strike-for-strike affair.

Verdict: Overeem via unanimous decision

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