Nick Diaz vs. Paul Daley: Strikeforce Welterweight Title Fight Prediction

Nick Diaz is a confident Strikeforce welterweight champion.  He possesses crisp technical boxing, a granite chin, and a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.  Come fight night his confidence may prove to be detrimental. 

In a post fight interview following his bout with Cyborg, Diaz was asked, "Is it safe to say you feel like you're the best striker in the world at 170 pounds?"

Without a moments hesitation, Diaz replied, "yea sure, ya know, there is nobody else that has any boxing skills." 

Paul Daley certainly has boxing skills.  The two are set to face off Saturday April 9th, and Daley will be challenging Diaz for the Strikeforce welterweight title.  

Although Daley is not as technical a striker as the champion, he has devastating power.  Daley's left hook is reminiscent of Mike Tyson's.  His explosive striking has earned him 20 knockouts, 15 coming in the first round.

Diaz has an uncanny ability to withstand damage.  He seems content taking shots and is known to drop his hands.  His solid chin allows him to weather the storm, and as his opponents marvel at the ineffectiveness of their strikes, desperation sets in.  The champion then capitalizes on their fatigue and picks them apart with sound boxing.  

The storm that is Paul Daley, is one the champ may be wise to avoid.  Daley's strikes will be effective.  If Diaz does not embrace a more conservative strategy he will end up relinquishing his belt.

In order to retain his title Diaz will need to employ the jab early.  If he can beat Daley to the punch by utilizing straights, he may disrupt the impulsive fighter's plan, tire him out, and get him to the mat. Assuming the champion embraces such a game plan, he could secure a submission in the 2nd or 3rd round. 

Expect that Diaz's confidence in his striking will lead him into a stand up battle.  Expect fireworks, and expect to see Paul Daley as the new Strikeforce welterweight champion.