UFC 124 Fight Card: What Charles Oliveira Must Do To Defeat Jim Miller

With impressive submission victories in his first two UFC appearances, Charles Oliveira has been labeled one of several rising lightweight prospects. Now, Oliveira is set to take on Jim Miller, another UFC lightweight looking to achieve elite status.

Oliveira, who has quickly compiled a 14-0 record in only three years as a professional, displayed dynamic striking and a dangerous ground game in his two UFC wins over Darren Elkins and Efrain Escudero. However, Oliveira may need to implement a different game plan against Miller.

Miller, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, has never been finished in his 20 professional fights. Additionally, UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar and top contender Gray Maynard have been the only fighters to defeat Miller. In both of those fights, Miller's decision losses were a result of being out-wrestled.

While Olveira has finished 13 of his 14 opponents, it is unlikely that he will be able to continue that trend against Miller. Out-wrestling Miller, a former NCAA Division I wrestler at Virginia Tech, will be even more unlikely.

For Oliveira to remain unbeaten, he should try to keep this fight standing as much as possible. Oliveira has an advantage over Miller in quickness and reach. On his feet, Oliveira has the ability to pick Miller apart. Additionally, Miller does not pose a major threat on his feet.

Only two of Miller's 18 career victories have come by way of TKO, and those two stoppages were a result of a shoulder injury and doctor stoppage. 

Oliveira's takedown defense could make or break this fight for him. If he is able to stuff a majority of Miller's takedown attempts, Oliveira should be able to run away with a victory on his feet. Conversely, Oliveira will be hard-pressed to win this fight from his back if he is unable to keep the fight standing.

Against most other opponents this would not be the case, but Miller has the submission defense and top control to be able to grind out a decision victory if he is able to consistently convert on his takedown attempts against Oliveira.