MMAmania.com - UFC on Fuel TV 7 fight card previews, predictions, analysis and moreBest UFC website for news, UFC results, fight highlights and UFC schedule, including live streaming updates, breaking MMA news and much more!https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49461/mania-f.png2013-02-16T12:00:08-05:00http://www.mmamania.com/rss/stream/37583312013-02-16T12:00:08-05:002013-02-16T12:00:08-05:00UFC On FUEL TV 7 Last Words: Swanson Vs. Poirier
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<figcaption>Rafael Suanes-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>Less than 24-hours away from Saturday's (Feb. 16, 2013) UFC on FUEL TV 7 event at Wembley Arena in London, England, UFC featherweight contenders Cub Swanson and Dustin Poirier shared some final thoughts on their main event affair.</p> <p>Before <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson" class="sbn-auto-link">Cub Swanson</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier" class="sbn-auto-link">Dustin Poirier</a> share the Octagon at UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" just a few short hours from now at Wembley Arena in London, England, the featherweight competitors were forced to endure one final formality:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/15/3986936/ufc-fuel-tv-7-weigh-in-results-full-video-replay-barao-mcdonald-mma">The weigh ins.</a></p>
<p>For mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters, the weigh-ins are the last time they will see stand face-to-face with their opponent before sharing the Octagon. Some fighters are casual when stepping on the scale, others use the moment as one final opportunity to try and intimidate their opponent.</p>
<p>Just moments after successfully making weight and facing off in an intense stare down, Swanson and Poirier appeared on the FUEL TV weigh-in show to share some finals thoughts on their match up with correspondent Gareth A. Davies less than 24-hours away from UFC on FUEL TV 7.</p>
<p>First, Swanson told Davies what he said to Poirier during the stare down, what he must do to emerge victorious in London and if he expects the fight to be an entertaining match up.</p>
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<p><b>On what he said during the stare down:</b><br><i>"[I said] let's do it."</i></p>
<p><b>On what he has to do to win: </b><br><i>"I just got to go out there and do what I do, I'm ready."</i></p>
<p><b>On if the fight will be entertaining: </b><br><i>"Of course, my number one plan is to go out there and entertain the crowd, but I fight smart, I fight hard every time."</i></p>
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<p>"The Diamond" kept it short and sweet on the FUEL TV weigh-in broadcast, telling Davies about the stare down and what he has to do to win the fight.</p>
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<p><b>On the stare down: </b><br><i>"I'm just ready, you know? Let's go, let's go, let's go. I had a good camp and I'm ready to fight."</i></p>
<p><b>On what he has to do to win: </b><br><i>"[I have to] stick to the game plan and fight smart, fight like a professional fighter."</i></p>
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<p>Only one more sleep until showtime, Maniacs!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma">Remember: MMAmania.com will provide LIVE round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of the entire card on fight day (Sat., Feb. 16, 2013), starting with the Facebook Prelims, which are scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. ET, as well as the main card, which is slated to air at 3 p.m. ET on FUEL TV.</a><br><br>For more news and notes on the upcoming UFC on FUEL TV 7 event click <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">here</a>.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3993796/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-last-words-cub-swanson-vs-dustin-poirierMike Bohn2013-02-16T11:00:08-05:002013-02-16T11:00:08-05:00UFC on FUEL 7 'FoTN' Pick: Barao Vs. McDonald
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<figcaption>Anne-Marie Sorvin-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>UFC on Fuel TV 7's main event features two top bantamweights as Michael McDonald challenges Renan Barao for his interim bantamweight title this afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) at Wembley Arena in London, England. Both men boast multifaceted offense, strong defense and a pace few fighters can match, meaning that it's going to be one hulluva a showdown.</p> <p>At <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/92601/ufc-on-fuel-tv" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on Fuel TV</a> 7, which will take place later this afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) at Wembley Arena in London, England, mixed martial arts (MMA) fans will be treated to a terrific match up between two highly skilled fighters, as Renan Barao defends his interim bantamweight title against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a>.</p>
<p>Barao recently won the 135-pound interim strap in his dominant win over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122468/urijah-faber" class="sbn-auto-link">Urijah Faber</a> at <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/95473/ufc-149" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC 149</a>, adding his nineteenth straight win (he hasn't lost in 28 consecutive bouts) in his nearly eight-year professional career. McDonald, who steps into this fight on an impressive eight-fight win streak of his own, staked his claim for the title shot with some brutal knockouts, which tend to be rarities within the weight class.</p>
<p>In a time of undeserved title shots and stylistic mismatches, it is refreshing to see a title fight of this caliber, especially on free television. Even with the label "interim," this fight might as well be for the real bantamweight title because current champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz</a> will not be fighting for much of the foreseeable future thanks to his shredded knee.</p>
<p>Both Barao and McDonald are highly skilled in all areas, and while their styles differ, they are fairly even in the end. Barao may be a slightly more dynamic fighter, but McDonald sacrifices finesse for hardy offense and tricky defense.</p>
<p>The thing that makes this fight so interesting to me is that this will be the first time either man has fought someone of similar caliber. The closest I can equate would be Faber in Barao's aforementioned interim title fight, but both of these men have been largely unchallenged.</p>
<p>One could say that Barao beat Chris Cariaso much more convincingly than McDonald did, but conversely, "Mayday" was much more impressive in beating <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122601/cole-escovedo" class="sbn-auto-link">Cole Escovedo</a>. Both of their strength of schedules have improved greatly with time, and it is interesting to compare their results against the same opponents, as it shows that each man can excel in different areas than the other.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao" class="sbn-auto-link">Renan Barao's</a> style focuses heavily on finesse, while still being fairly reliable in cases where more clinical approaches might be preferred. One area, however, that Barao has yet to be truly tested in is his reactions to pressure ... real pressure.</p>
<p>His performances under the pressuring blitzes of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127987/brad-pickett" class="sbn-auto-link">Brad Pickett</a> and Faber have shown that he isn't always able to remain cool in the pocket, but he has yet to face someone who will continually fight with him for cage position. Not simply straight line offense, but constant pressure and movement, something that could throw him off or even tire him.</p>
<p>If McDonald wants to have any success on the feet, he'll have to do exactly that -- press forward continually, throwing strikes often. His main flaw standing is that his defense is his offense, as he gets hit a lot, but gets away with it because he usually lands cleaner.</p>
<p>Therefore, he'll need to move forward to avoid getting torn apart by Barao's long range arsenal.</p>
<p>For Barao to have success standing, he'll have to be a little more reserved in his approach. Substituting spinning kicks and flying knees for his hard leg kicks and sharp one-two combinations to get back into the center of the cage will benefit him greatly, and it will cause both men to fight in ways they aren't necessarily comfortable. McDonald needs to constantly cut off the cage, either to keep Barao on edge or to tire him towards the later rounds, if he is to find success in the standup.</p>
<p>If and when this fight hits the ground, I must say, I favor Barao greatly. His Brazilian jiu-jitsu is brutally effective. And with his sound positional abilities and offensive disposition, he makes good ground fighters wither under his constant attacks. He is able to capitalize on the smallest of mistakes, and with that, he shuts down any big risks opponents want to take.</p>
<p>McDonald is a very respectable grappler, with some decent submissions and ground work to his name, but he is nowhere near the level of Barao. If he wants to win this fight, he'd be well advised to avoid ground exchanges at all costs, and when he finds himself in troubling spots, to stay calm and careful when finding a way out.</p>
<p>Otherwise, it's probably tap or nap for this young man.</p>
<p>Ultimately, if this fight is to go to the ground, I would expect Barao to be the one taking it there. His wrestling is excellent, as should be expected from a Nova Unaio-trained fighter, and his athleticism aids him greatly here. Should he find difficulty standing, this is a reliable go-to for him.</p>
<p>This fight comes down to how both men will react to a high-quality opponent. While Barao is probably more battle tested, he has yet to fight someone who will be in his face like McDonald will, and McDonald has yet to face anyone with the rangy and diverse striking game Barao presents.</p>
<p>This fight, whether on the ground or on the feet, is primed for excitement. Be it McDonald backing up Barao with constant attacks, Barao finding his range and going to town, or Barao taking control of the mat work, there are few positions I can imagine where offense will not be ever-present from at least one participant.</p>
<p>Expect these two fighters to put forth a back-and-forth affair, with a very high likelihood of taking home <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a> "Fight of the Night' honors when the lights go down in London.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3985892/ufc-fuel-tv-7-prediction-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-fight-of-the-night-londonGeorge Halvatzis Jr.2013-02-16T09:00:02-05:002013-02-16T09:00:02-05:00Find Out Where To Watch UFC On FUEL TV 7 Today!
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<p>The complete UFC on FUEL TV 7 fight card will air later today on two different networks -- Facebook and FUEL TV. Here's how to catch today's (Feb. 16, 2013) "Barao vs. McDonald" mixed martial arts (MMA) action from any location.</p> <p>After a rare weekend off, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) is finally back!</p>
<p>And once again the world's leading mixed martial arts (MMA) league will air an entire fight card TODAY (Feb. 16, 2013), this time with UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald," which will begin around 12:00 p.m. ET with a <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/flyweight">Flyweight</a> fight of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2677/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-ulysses-gomez-vs-phil-harris">Ulysses Gomez vs. Phil Harris</a> that will air LIVE on Facebook, today's home for the entire UFC on FUEL TV 7 "Prelims" card.<br><br>Why such an early start time? Because UFC on FUEL TV 7 takes place from Wembley Arena in London, England, which is several hours ahead on the world clock.<br><br>Following the FUEL TV 7 "Prelims" on Facebook, fans can switch over to the FUEL TV network for the main card, headlined by a interim <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/bantamweight">Bantamweight</a> championship battle between titleholder <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao">Renan Barao</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald">Michael McDonald</a>, who will look to become the youngest champion in UFC history.<br><br>UFC on FUEL TV begins promptly at 3 p.m. ET this afternoon. You can call up your local cable and/or satellite provider or visit them online to find out which channel you should be tuning in to for tonight's mixed martial arts (MMA) extravaganza. You can even check if it's available to watch on your mobile device through the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.neulion.smartphone.ufc.android&feature=search_result">Android Market</a>.<br><br><b>However, if you need your UFC on FUEL TV 7 results as soon as possible, and don't have a provider that carries the network, </b><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma">MMAmania.com will deliver up-to-the-minute results and live fight coverage,</a><b> including round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of all the UFC on FUEL TV 7 action before, during and after the event </b><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma">RIGHT HERE</a><b>.</b><br><br>More details on the UFC on FUEL TV 7 fight card and line up, as well as viewing options for International fight fans, after the jump:</p>
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<p><b>FUEL TV Main Card (3 p.m. ET):</b><br><br>145 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2923/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-dustin-poirier-vs-cub-swanson">Dustin Poirier vs. Cub Swanson</a><br>205 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2689/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-cyrille-diabate-vs-jimi-manuwa">Cyrille Diabate vs. Jimi Manuwa</a><br>170 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2947/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-gunnar-nelson-vs-jorge-santiago">Gunnar Nelson vs. Jorge Santiago</a><br>205 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2743/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-ryan-jimmo-vs-james-te-huna">James Te Huna vs. Ryan Jimmo</a><br>170 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2635/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-che-mills-vs-matt-riddle">Che Mills vs. Matt Riddle</a><br><br><b>Facebook "Prelims" (12 p.m. ET)</b><br><br>155 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2679/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-terry-etim-vs-renee-forte">Terry Etim vs. Renee Forte</a><br>155 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2673/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-danny-castillo-vs-paul-sass">Danny Castillo vs. Paul Sass</a><br>145 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2659/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-josh-grispi-vs-andy-ogle">Josh Grispi vs. Andy Ogle</a><br>185 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2779/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-stanislav-nedkov-vs-tom-watson">Stanislav Nedkov vs. Tom Watson</a><br>135 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2675/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-vaughan-lee-vs-motonobu-tezuka">Vaughan Lee vs. Motonobu Tezuka</a><br>125 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129528/ulysses-gomez">Ulysses Gomez</a> vs. <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/162271/phil-harris">Phil Harris</a></p>
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<p>International fight fans who don't get FUEL TV will need to check their local television listings; however, "Barao vs. McDonald" will air LIVE in most parts of the world on UFC.TV.<br><br><b><a href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma">Remember, too, that our round-by-round results of the under card fights on Facebook will begin to flow around 12:00 p.m. ET later today and run right on through to our main card FUEL TV coverage, which is set to start at 3 p.m. ET!</a></b></p>
<p>For more on UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald" be sure to hit up our event archive right <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">here</a>.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3994106/watch-ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-online-stream-live-video-feed-fuel-tv-youtube-barao-mcdonald-mmaMike Bohn2013-02-16T07:00:06-05:002013-02-16T07:00:06-05:00Cub Swanson, UFC on FUEL TV 7's 'Fighter To Watch'
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<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>UFC on Fuel TV 7 features a stacked card of top-notch fighters, many of whom compete in the lighter divisions. Cub Swanson -- a long-time contender in the featherweight division -- is among the talented field. He will look to notch his fourth win in a row at the event over Dustin Poirier, making him a fighter you should keep an eye on this afternoon in London.</p> <p>It's hard to forget the memorable mixed martial arts (MMA) fights that include <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson">Cub Swanson</a>, whether it's an amazing victory or a disheartening loss. Either way, the proud southern Californian always brings the fight to his opponents, and very few have left without a tough night.</p>
<p>Way back when, in the time of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/wec">World Extreme Cagefighting</a> (WEC), Swanson was on a very impressive 11-fight win streak, with his sole career loss coming in his very first professional fight. He carved out a reputation as a finisher in his early days, with nine of the 11 wins in the aforementioned streak coming via stoppage.</p>
<p>His career was at a peak when he was very young, and with the promise he showed, he was seemingly going to be around for a very long time.</p>
<p>Then, WEC 31 happened in Dec. 2007.</p>
<p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131344/jens-pulver">Jens Pulver</a>, who was coming off two straight losses in <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122535/joe-lauzon">Joe Lauzon</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122540/b-j-penn">B.J. Penn</a>, respectively, decided to make a drop to 145 pounds, a weight class with which most fight fans at the time were unfamiliar. It didn't take long for Swanson's momentum to fade away, as Pulver made quick work of him after applying a guillotine choke for a tap in just 31 seconds.</p>
<p>The loss, while disheartening, was obviously not the end for Swanson. He put together two straight wins in 2008 before meeting <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo">Jose Aldo</a>, an exciting young Brazilian prospect. In many ways, Aldo was a reflection of Swanson's early years -- a dynamic finisher with a ton of potential. At this point, Swanson was no longer just a prospect, he was a respected veteran.</p>
<p>And that's what made the brutal loss to Aldo all the more shocking.</p>
<p>In only five seconds, Aldo flew through the air, landing two flying knees on the same jump, putting Swanson to the mat hard. He followed up with one or two small shots before the referee graciously stopped the fight. As Swanson got up, he revealed a gruesome gash on his forehead, creating an image that is iconic in MMA to this day.</p>
<p>Needless to say, the loss didn't do wonders for Swanson's career. After the loss, he fought only four times from 2009 to 2011, compiling an even record (2-2) over that span, bringing him into what could very presumably be a harsh 2012 for the Jackson MMA-trained product.</p>
<p>However, since then, Swanson has turned it all around. Whether it was a new approach in training or some new confidence in his fights, Swanson reeled off three straight stoppage victories over respected opponents with which he was thought to be fairly even. His highlight reel has been improved drastically with his picture-perfect knockouts over <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122484/george-roop">George Roop</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122622/ross-pearson">Ross Pearson</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122643/charles-oliveira">Charles Oliveira</a>, all very respected names in the sport.</p>
<p>Heading into this fight at <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/92601/ufc-on-fuel-tv">UFC on Fuel TV</a> 7, which takes place later this afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) from Wembley Arena in London, England, Swanson has the chance to revitalize his career in a way few other fighters have ever done. He bounced back from a rough stretch, and now, he may even be injected into the title picture with a win at this event.</p>
<p>The only thing standing in Swanson's way right now is <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier">Dustin Poirier</a>. And while he is a stiff challenge, he is far from unbeatable. Swanson may not be your cookie-cutter Greg Jackson-trained technician, but he has a way of putting some very skilled fighters in their places, which is exactly what he needs to do to Poirier later today to keep his momentum rolling..</p>
<p>If their recent fights are anything to go by, Swanson and Poirier are almost definitely going to put on a big show in the co-main event. And if Swanson manages to come out on top, it will add an amazing narrative to his career. All it takes with Swanson is one punch, and that one punch may be his ticket to a championship rematch with Aldo in the near future.</p>
<p>With a win at this event, Swanson would re-establish himself as an upper echelon featherweight after what seemed to be a plateau in his career. It's definitely within his grasp, meaning big things could be in his immediate future, which is the reason he is <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7's</a> "Fighter to Watch."</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/16/3993348/cub-swanson-ufc-fuel-tv-7-fighter-to-watch-london-mmaGeorge Halvatzis Jr.2013-02-15T19:00:00-05:002013-02-15T19:00:00-05:00UFC on Fuel TV 7: Previewing Barao vs McDonald
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<p>MMAmania's Brian Hemminger takes a closer look at tomorrow's UFC on Fuel TV 7 headlining fight between UFC Interim Bantamweight Champion Renan Barao and challenger Michael McDonald. What's the key to victory for both men? Find out below. </p> <p>An interim title will be defended for the first time in years tomorrow (Feb. 16, 2013) as UFC Interim <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/bantamweight" class="sbn-auto-link">Bantamweight</a> Champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao" class="sbn-auto-link">Renan Barao</a> battles challenger <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a> in the main event of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a> in London, England.</p>
<p>Barao has gone 30 fights without defeat, hands down the longest active streak in MMA today. He rose to the top of the UFC bantamweight division, stepping in place of injured champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz</a> to defeat <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122468/urijah-faber" class="sbn-auto-link">Urijah Faber</a> for the interim title last summer.</p>
<p>McDonald has some of the best punching power at 135 pounds. Already 4-0 in his UFC career and having just turned 22 years old, McDonald has the opportunity to become the youngest champion in UFC history if he can knock Barao off his pedestal tomorrow.</p>
<p>Will Barao retain the the interim title? Can McDonald set a record? What's the key to victory for both men tomorrow?</p>
<p><b>Renan Barao</b></p>
<p><b>Record</b>: 29-1 (1 No Contest) overall, 9-0 in the UFC</p>
<p><b>Key Wins</b>: Urijah Faber (<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/95473/ufc-149" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC 149</a>), <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127866/scott-jorgensen" class="sbn-auto-link">Scott Jorgensen</a> (UFC 143), Brad Pickett (UFC 138)</p>
<p><b>Key Losses</b>: none</p>
<p><b>How he got here</b>: After losing the first fight of his professional career, Barao hasn't since tasted defeat. While the Brazilian didn't exactly face top talent while competing in his native country, he fought often, as many as seven times per year.</p>
<p>After his 24th straight bout without a loss, he finally earned an invite to the WEC, where he would submit <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131322/anthony-leone" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Leone</a> via armbar in his promotional debut. Barao competed on the final WEC 53 event, also submitting <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129170/chris-cariaso" class="sbn-auto-link">Chris Cariaso </a>with a slick transition from a Kimura to taking the American's back before choking him out.</p>
<p>In his UFC debut, Barao had a tough battle with former WEC champion <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122601/cole-escovedo" class="sbn-auto-link">Cole Escovedo</a> but would eventually earn a unanimous decision victory. He followed it up by going into <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127987/brad-pickett" class="sbn-auto-link">Brad Pickett's</a> homeland at UFC 138 and completely and utterly crushing the Brit by knocking him down in the first round and then choking him out to instantly burst into contention.</p>
<p>He scored a huge follow-up victory over former title challenger Scott Jorgensen earlier last year to put him over the top for an interim title shot, and he would capitalize on the opportunity, handily defeating Urijah Faber over the course of five rounds to walk away with the belt.</p>
<p>Now, he's looking to defend the title against a very powerful and dangerous challenger in McDonald.</p>
<p><b>How he gets it done</b>: In this fight, Renan Barao needs to either keep his distance, or get to the canvas. His striking has progressed very quickly and he's capable of scoring points with a vast array of kicking attacks and he can also explode forward with the occasional knee. If the bout is standing, he can't let McDonald get inside as "Mayday" has some very powerful short strikes.</p>
<p>Barao showcased much improved boxing in his last two fights and his overall game is rounding out nicely. If he feels he's got a speed and technique edge, he's going to keep this fight standing, but he should constantly keep the threat of the takedown there as he's so aggressive on the canvas that he might simply be able to overwhelm McDonald there.</p>
<p>If he can force a scramble, Barao is lightning quick with his ability to hop onto his opponent's back and once there, a fight-ending rear naked choke is almost inevitable. Look for the young Brazilian to perhaps try to reverse a takedown attempt or maybe even shoot for one of his own if McDonald is on his heels in the striking.</p>
<p>Expect anything and everything from this young star in the making as he has grown by leaps and bounds in nearly all of his skills. Something to keep in mind is that Barao was easily able to go five rounds in his last bout, while McDonald has never seen a championship round in his career and has slowed down in fights that went the distance.</p>
<p><b>Michael McDonald</b></p>
<p><b>Record</b>: 15-1 overall, 4-0 in the UFC</p>
<p><b>Key Wins</b>: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122471/miguel-torres" class="sbn-auto-link">Miguel Torres</a> (<a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/92541/ufc-145-jones-vs-evans" class="sbn-auto-link">UFC 145</a>), Chris Cariaso (UFC 130), <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/130050/edwin-figueroa" class="sbn-auto-link">Edwin Figueroa</a> (UFC Fight Night 24)</p>
<p><b>Key Losses</b>: Cole Escovedo (PFC 13)</p>
<p><b>How he got here</b>: Michael McDonald got off to an incredible early start in his mixed martial arts career. He debuted professionally in 2007 at just 16 years old and crushed everyone in his path. In his first year, he went 6-0 with six first round stoppage victories. This earned him a step up in competition although it may have been too much, too fast as he suffered his first career defeat at the hands of former WEC champion Cole Escovedo.</p>
<p>"Mayday" bounced back by defeating former WEC title challenger Manny Tapia and then avenging his loss to Escovedo, knocking both men out while fighting for the Tachi Palace promotion.</p>
<p>He made his WEC debut at just 19 years old, earning a victory over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122974/clint-godfrey" class="sbn-auto-link">Clint Godfrey</a> via submission in the first round and the hype really starting building. He had a rough go of it in his first two UFC bouts, winning hard-fought decisions over lesser competition although he got back on track at UFC 139 with a blistering clean 56 second knockout of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/147120/alex-soto" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Soto</a>.</p>
<p>In his last bout, McDonald faced another former WEC champion in Miguel Torres and he dominated "Angel," finishing him via brutal knockout inside the first round to earn a shot at the belt. Now, an opportunity to become the youngest champion in UFC history is in his grasp.</p>
<p><b>How he gets it done</b>: While McDonald is very well-rounded, it's his hands which are going to be the difference in this fight. Renan Barao is better than him in terms of submissions and sweeps on the ground so I wouldn't recommend him taking the fight there unless he hurts the Nova Uniao first, and even then he should be cautious.</p>
<p>McDonald has serious power in both fists and he's got a very quick first step. The biggest key for him is to find a way to get inside Barao's reach and connect solidly on the champion's jaw. Footwork is going to be incredibly important as McDonald already has speed, so it'll be all about position.</p>
<p>Something else to keep in mind is that time is not on McDonald's side. His best performances of his Zuffa career have all come when he scores early stoppages while the worst have all come when he's gone the distance. McDonald needs to be aggressive early in this fight because it's unlikely he'll be able to win if it goes all five rounds anyways so he should put some extra effort into knocking Barao's block off as quick as possible.</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/15/3993586/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-fight-card-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald-previewBrian Hemminger2013-02-15T13:00:08-05:002013-02-15T13:00:08-05:00Nostradumbass predicts UFC on FUEL TV 7
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/cF923mMrr0WDuwT1l40vdvVQxPo=/0x0:467x311/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/8106385/20120421_kdl_sa2_327.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Paul Abell-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>There's an interim bantamweight title up for grabs across the pond, as well as a featherweight fracas that could determine the next 145-pound number one contender. That is, unless anyone else feels like dropping down from lightweight.</p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) set sail for the Wembley Arena earlier this week, home of this Saturday afternoon's (Feb. 16, 2013) <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a> fight card in London, England, headlined by an Interim <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/bantamweight">bantamweight</a> title fight between temporary titleholder Renan Pegado and top division contender <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald" class="sbn-auto-link">Michael McDonald</a>.</p>
<p>Also up for grabs is the right to call one man <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/featherweight" class="sbn-auto-link">featherweight</a> number one contender. But will it be <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson" class="sbn-auto-link">Cub Swanson</a> or <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier" class="sbn-auto-link">Dustin Poirier</a>?</p>
<p>Let's not overlook some of the other up-and-coming talent on tomorrow's televised offering, including <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129081/jimi-manuwa" class="sbn-auto-link">Jimi Manuwa</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/126780/gunnar-nelson" class="sbn-auto-link">Gunnar Nelson</a>, among others. And let's hope they show the fighter walkouts, because I want to see <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127375/matt-riddle" class="sbn-auto-link">Matt Riddle</a> dodging English loogies at every turn.</p>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/6/3960086/ufc-fuel-tv-7-results-live-fight-stream-online-coverage-barao-mcdonald-mma"><b>MMAmania.com will provide LIVE round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of the entire card on fight day (Sat., Feb. 16, 2013), starting with the Facebook Prelims, which are scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. ET, as well as the six-fight main card, which is slated to air at 3 p.m. ET on FUEL TV.</b></a></p>
<p>So, who gets it done across the pond? I'm glad you asked...</p>
<p>135 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2669/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-renan-barao-vs-michael-mcdonald">Renan "Barao" Pegado (29-1) vs. Michael "Mayday" McDonald (15-1)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: Can Michael McDonald win this fight? That all depends on whether or not he can land the money shot like he did against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122471/miguel-torres" class="sbn-auto-link">Miguel Torres</a>, because outside of a flash knockout, I really don't see any area where he's better than Renan Pegado.</p>
<p>Yet.</p>
<p>"Mayday" is just 22-years-old and has a bright future in this sport, but when you line up their current resumes on the overhead projector, you see victories over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/147120/alex-soto" class="sbn-auto-link">Alex Soto</a>, Chris Cariaso and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/130050/edwin-figueroa" class="sbn-auto-link">Edwin Figueroa</a> for McDonald compared to wins over <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122468/urijah-faber" class="sbn-auto-link">Urijah Faber</a>, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127866/scott-jorgensen" class="sbn-auto-link">Scott Jorgensen</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127987/brad-pickett" class="sbn-auto-link">Brad Pickett</a> for Pegado.</p>
<p>And then there's that whole 29-wins-in-a-row thingy.</p>
<p>I also don't like that "Mayday" has so many issues with his hand. One blow to the Brazilian's skull and that baby can pop, which is like taking the bullets out of your gun heading into a firefight.</p>
<p>"Barao" has him beat in speed and submissions, as well (watch the "One Punch" finish), and has already proved that he can last through the championship rounds by turning away "The California Kid." Outside of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz" class="sbn-auto-link">Dominick Cruz</a>, I'm not sure if anyone at bantamweight is a legitimate threat to this guy.</p>
<p>Downward, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2012/4/20/2962573/ufc-145-michael-mcdonald-vs-miguel-torres">Christian soldier</a>.</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Pegado def. McDonald via submission</i></p>
<p>145 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2923/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-dustin-poirier-vs-cub-swanson">Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier (13-2) vs. Cub Swanson (18-5)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: Dustin Poirier has been something of a sentimental favorite after his appearance in the finely-crafted documentary "Fightville." Outside of his rise to prominence inside the promotion's busy 145-pound division, "The Diamond" has shown that basic fundamentals are the foundation for winning fights.</p>
<p>Just ask <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122478/josh-grispi" class="sbn-auto-link">Josh Grispi</a>.</p>
<p>The loss to <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122481/chan-sung-jung" class="sbn-auto-link">Chan Sung Jung</a> was a learning experience, but I'm not sure the lesson completely sank in. He was hit <i>way</i> too often against <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129945/jonathan-brookins" class="sbn-auto-link">Jonathan Brookins</a> in a winning performance and if he turns this into a slugfest against Cub Swanson, he's toast.</p>
<p>It ain't easy being green.</p>
<p>Not including <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo" class="sbn-auto-link">Jose Aldo</a>, I don't know how many people can stand and bang with this guy and he's certainly come a long way under the tutelage of Greg Jackson. I think the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122622/ross-pearson" class="sbn-auto-link">Ross Pearson</a> win was the one that really made me sit up and take notice and he made a mockery of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122643/charles-oliveira" class="sbn-auto-link">Charles Oliveira</a>.</p>
<p>His ground game, however, is a bit suspect.</p>
<p>I think Poirier can submit him just as Lamas did. After all, the Brabo is his favorite finisher. But I get this uneasy feeling that he'll try to make it a firefight and end up on the wrong side of a Swanson swarm, which will put him ass over tin cups and right to the back of the featherweight line.</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Swanson def. Poirier via technical knockout</i></p>
<p>205 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2689/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-cyrille-diabate-vs-jimi-manuwa">Cyrille "The Snake" Diabate (19-8-1) vs. Jimi "Poster Boy" Manuwa (12-0)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: Jimi Manuwa calls himself the "Poster Boy," which is apropos, because he is the poster boy for big, muscular fighters who run out of gas after the opening frame. See what happens when you end nine of your 12 wins inside the first round?</p>
<p>You get spoiled!</p>
<p>Especially when you get to beat up guys like Shaun Lomas, who is an incredible 14-40 (he's no quitter, I'll give him that). In fact, none of Manuwa's first eight wins have come over an opponent with a winning record.</p>
<p>Yikes.</p>
<p>By my estimation, Manuwa has five minutes to win this fight and very well could, depending on which <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122609/cyrille-diabate" class="sbn-auto-link">Cyrille Diabate</a> shows up to fight. Sometimes we get the lethal striker with tenacious aggression, other times we get a listless <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/light-heavyweight" class="sbn-auto-link">light heavyweight</a> who looks like he'd rather be anywhere but inside the Octagon.</p>
<p>The Frenchman is getting up there in age so I'm not sure how much longer he can do this dance. Since Manuwa is hardly a jiu-jitsu ace, I think it's fairly safe to say this thing plays out on the feet. To that end, "The Snake" can use his kickboxing pedigree -- as well as his ridiculous reach -- to stymie the raging bull and tire him out.</p>
<p>From there, it's a veritable shooting gallery.</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Diabate def. Manuwa via unanimous decision</i></p>
<p>170 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2947/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-gunnar-nelson-vs-jorge-santiago">Gunnar "Gunni" Nelson (10-0-1) vs. Jorge "The Sandman" Santiago (25-10)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: So Gunnar Nelson is supposed to be the next big thing at 170 pounds because he has amazing jiu-jitsu and cut his teeth in Abu Dhabi Combat Club (ADCC). He even won his UFC debut by submission. I'm sure somewhere in Brazil, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122560/demian-maia" class="sbn-auto-link">Demian Maia</a> is thinking 'Yeah, so?'</p>
<p>Get in line, buster.</p>
<p>Since "Gunni" is the greatest thing to come out of Iceland since <i>LazyTown</i>, there's a lot of hype on his entry into the ranks of what could be one of the toughest weight classes in mixed martial arts (MMA). Rumor has it he's got hands, too, but pounding out guys like Iran Mascarenhas (0-4), Barry Mairs (1-1) and Adam Slawisnki (1-5) is not exactly the stuff of legend.</p>
<p>If you're caught up in all the hype, just remember what happened to "Wonderboy," and the well-rounded Santiago (10 wins by KO/TKO, 13 by submission) is about as durable as they come.</p>
<p>"The Sandman" had a dreadful 0-2 run with the UFC back in 2011, his second run inside the Octagon, but taking on <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/128666/brian-stann" class="sbn-auto-link">Brian Stann</a> and Demian Maia in back-to-back fights is a pretty tall order for any fighter. This won't be a cakewalk, but it's a winnable fight if he keeps himself upright.</p>
<p>Jorge hasn't been submitted in 35 professional fights, either, and I don't believe that streak will end tomorrow.</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Santiago def. Nelson via split decision</i></p>
<p>205 lbs.: <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2743/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-ryan-jimmo-vs-james-te-huna">Ryan "Big Deal" Jimmo (17-1) vs. James Te Huna (15-5)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129052/ryan-jimmo" class="sbn-auto-link">Ryan Jimmo</a> has won 17 fights in a row and tied the UFC for fastest knockout with a seven-second thrashing of <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129556/anthony-perosh" class="sbn-auto-link">Anthony Perosh</a> in his Octagon debut. Not bad for a guy who got bounced from The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 8 in the opening round.</p>
<p>Too bad it all ends tomorrow night.</p>
<p>That's because <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129579/james-te-huna" class="sbn-auto-link">James Te Huna</a> hits like a Mack truck, finishing 10 of his 15 victims by way of knockout or technical knockout. If <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122486/joey-beltran" class="sbn-auto-link">Joey Beltran's</a> head wasn't made of Nerf, he'd probably be on that list as well. The Aussie is weak on the ground, but I don't expect it to get there and even if it did, Jimmo's ground game isn't a "big deal," having been responsible for just two wins by way of submission.</p>
<p>This one is to be decided on the feet.</p>
<p>With both guys coming out firing, still fresh as a daisy and light on their feet, I have to favor Te Huna. I'm not saying Jimmo won't land or even have his moments, but when push comes to shove, volume means nothing in the face of power.</p>
<p>Something Igor Pokrajac learned the hard way in Te Huna's UFC debut.</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Te Huna def. Jimmo via knockout</i></p>
<p>170 lbs.: <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight/2635/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-che-mills-vs-matt-riddle" class="sbn-auto-link">"Beautiful" Che Mills (15-5) vs. Matt "Deep Waters" Riddle (7-3)</a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Nostradumbass predicts</span>: I'm really looking forward to this fight just because I want to see if the British fans still hold a grudge against Matt Riddle for <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2012/7/23/3177613/matt-riddle-rant-dan-hardy-butter-tooth-brit-ufc-149-video">suggesting their teeth look like little chunks of butter</a>. If Chael Sonnen can make it out of Brazil in one piece, I think the former TUF guy will return home unscathed as well.</p>
<p>But can he bring home a win?</p>
<p>Riddle is a durable wrestler and a heck of an athlete, but he's a below average fighter. We've all seen that GIF where the self-described pot head unleashes a furious combination a full two feet out of range. That could explain why he is 2-2 with one no contest over his last five fights and hasn't had a finish in two-and-a-half years.</p>
<p>Which is right around the last time Mills went to a decision.</p>
<p>While his technical knockout loss to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122584/rory-macdonald">Rory MacDonald</a> was hardly "Beautiful," it came against a fighter many consider the next title contender at 170 pounds, so it's easy to overlook. In addition, he holds notable wins over rough-and-tumble veterans like <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/128650/marius-zaromskis">Marius Zaromskis</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/148328/jake-hecht">Jake Hecht</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/125022/duane-ludwig">Duane Ludwig</a>.</p>
<p>Doesn't guarantee him a win.</p>
<p>Riddle is not the prototypical fighter and therefore is kind of hard to prepare for. How do you train for a bar fight? I think there's a good chance he wins, too, if he abandons the stand up and humps his way to victory. Hey, a win is a win, right? And what better way to stick it to the Brits!</p>
<p><i>Final prediction: Riddle def. Mills via split decision</i></p>
<p>That's a wrap, folks.</p>
<p>For previews and predictions on the preliminary card fights click <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/11/3972582/ufc-fuel-tv-7-prelims-preview-predictions-online-barao-vs-mcdonald-facebook-london-mma">here </a>and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/12/3972580/ufc-fuel-tv-7-prelims-preview-predictions-online-barao-vs-mcdonald-facebook-pt2-london-mma">here</a>. To see all the odds and betting lines for UFC on FUEL TV 7 click <a target="_blank" href="http://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/13/3981974/latest-ufc-fuel-tv-7-odds-online-betting-guide-barao-vs-mcdonald-london-sportsbook-mma">here </a>and remember to come check us out after the show for all the latest results, recaps and coverage of "Barao vs. McDonald."</p>
<p><b>What do you think? Now it's your turn ... let us have it in the comments section and share your thoughts and picks for tomorrow night's event.</b></p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/15/3986166/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7-predictions-preview-analysis-mmaJesse Holland2013-02-14T22:00:05-05:002013-02-14T22:00:05-05:00What Victory Means For UFC on FUEL TV 7 Fighters
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<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>What does a victory mean for Renan Barao, Michael McDonald, Cub Swanson and Dustin Poirier this Saturday afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) at UFC on FUEL TV 7: "Barao vs. McDonald"? Find out what is on the line for each mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter at Wembley Arena in London, England, this weekend.</p> <p><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/115915/ufc-on-fuel-tv-7">UFC on FUEL TV 7</a>: "Barao vs. McDonald" goes down this Saturday afternoon (Feb. 16, 2013) at Wembley Arena in London, England. The mixed martial arts (MMA) event is headlined by an interim <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/promotion/ufc">Ultimate Fighting Championship</a> (UFC) bantamweight championship bout between current interim titleholder <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129571/renan-barao">Renan Barao</a> and No. 1 division contender <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122975/michael-mcdonald">Michael McDonald</a>.</p>
<p>Supporting the main event is a pivotal bout in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/weight_class/featherweight">Featherweight</a> division as <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122976/cub-swanson">Cub Swanson</a> attempts to continue his rise up the ranks when he takes on talented youngster <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122973/dustin-poirier">Dustin Poirier</a>.</p>
<p>With the top two bouts of UFC on FUEL TV 7 garnering most of the attention from fans and MMA media alike, it's time to break down what -- besides a paycheck -- a victory in the United Kingdom means for the four men carrying the UFC on FUEL TV 7 fight card.</p>
<p>Here we go:</p>
<p><b>Renan Barao</b> <br>Barao, the UFC's interim bantamweight champion, is currently riding an obscene 30-fight undefeated streak, including an undefeated (4-0) stint in the Octagon going into his first title defense at UFC on FUEL TV 7.</p>
<p>Barao captured the crown last July when he outpointed <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122468/urijah-faber">Urijah Faber</a> to a unanimous decision in the main event of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fight-card/95473/ufc-149">UFC 149</a> in Calgary. It was believed his next fight would be a title unification bout with bantamweight champion <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/127865/dominick-cruz">Dominick Cruz</a>, but when "The Dominator" went under the knife for a second knee surgery a few months back, the UFC told Barao waiting was not an option and he must put the interim title on the line against McDonald.</p>
<p>The 25-year-old will be in an unfamiliar situation come Saturday. For the past few fights, especially against Faber, Barao was the young lion trying to take out the established veterans of the sport and gain recognition in the MMA world. But, now that he has the title, the bounty is on Barao's head and everyone -- including McDonald -- wants what the Brazilian has.</p>
<p>Barao has stated time and time again since winning the belt that he is very anxious to unify the titles with Cruz and reluctantly look Saturday's fight. On top of taking out an extremely talented youngster in McDonald, a victory for Barao at UFC on FUEL TV 7 means he will, barring any further setbacks, likely get his chance to trade leather with Mr. Cruz.</p>
<p><b>Michael McDonald</b><br>What's on the line for McDonald at UFC on FUEL TV 7 is pretty clear. A win for McDonald would push his current win-streak to nine, would be the first time a fighter has defeated Barao since the Brazilian's first professional fight in 2005. Oh yeah, a win on Saturday would also make "Mayday" the youngest champion in UFC history at 22 years, one month and two days of age.</p>
<p>One has to wonder how McDonald will deal with all the additional fame that comes along with being a UFC champion. Every fighter handles it different, but McDonald seems like a very grounded individual and given the amount of maturity he has shown in the past, it's unlikely McDonald is the type of guy who would let the fame of being champion go to his head.</p>
<p>McDonald has a chance to be a part of history and his destiny lies in his own hands.</p>
<p><b>Cub Swanson</b><br>It's hard not to feel for Swanson, who seems to be getting somewhat of the short end of the stick in the UFC featherweight division. Swanson was originally supposed to fight German juggernaut <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122895/dennis-siver">Dennis Siver</a> at Saturday's event in what dubbed as a No. 1 contenders fight at 145-pounds. Siver was forced out of the bout due to injury and replaced by Dustin Poirier, a talented and exciting fighter in his own right but one that lost a title eliminator to <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122481/chan-sung-jung">Chan Sung Jung</a> less than a year ago.</p>
<p>A win over Poirier would be a welcomed edition to Swanson's resume; however, a win over Siver probably would have done more for the Team Jackson-Winkeljohn product.</p>
<p>In hindsight it really doesn't matter who Swanson faced at the event, as he would have been leap frogged in the ranking by <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122902/anthony-pettis">Anthony Pettis</a> regardless. The match up with Siver was arguably the more relevant fight, though.</p>
<p>A win on Saturday means Swanson keeps his ranking in the division strong for the time being. With champion <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122473/jose-aldo">Jose Aldo</a> set to face Pettis in August, it gives time for a lot of things to happen in the division. With the 145-pound weight class becoming more and more competitive by the day, Swanson needs a win just to keep his head above water with the likes of Siver, Jung, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/131141/ricardo-lamas">Ricardo Lamas</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122527/frankie-edgar">Frankie Edgar</a>, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/128648/clay-guida">Clay Guida</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/122965/chad-mendes">Chad Mendes</a>.</p>
<p><b>Dustin Poirier</b><br>One man misfortune is another man's opportunity as Poirier stepped in for Siver to face Swanson in a fight that could help him jump right back in the featherweight title picture despite being just one fight removed from a devastating loss to "The Korean Zombie."</p>
<p>At this time last year, Poirier was on a five-fight win-streak in the UFC and was viewed as a potential challenger to featherweight champ Jose Aldo. In his chance to get over the hump and prove he is a top contender, "The Diamond" stumbled and was unable to come on top when it counted most.</p>
<p>The 24-year-old is still young enough to learn a lot from his losses, which are few and far between, and come back as a better and more successful fighter. Step one in that process began last December when Poirier submitted <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/mma/fighter/129945/jonathan-brookins">Jonathan Brookins</a> in the first round.</p>
<p>Now he faces the second step of that challenge in Swanson.</p>
<p>A victory on Saturday puts Poirier back in the featherweight title mix. As stated above, there are plenty of matches to be made at 145 pounds right now, especially with the title unlikely to be defended again until the end of 2013 or the beginning of 2014. Poirier has done some good things so far in his Zuffa career, but he lacks that signature win on his resume.</p>
<p>Swanson can be that name.</p>
<p>What do you think a win means on Saturday for these four men? Let us know in the comments section below!</p>
https://www.mmamania.com/2013/2/14/3975150/winners-circle-ufc-fuel-tv-7-barao-mcdonald-swanson-poirier-london-mmaMike Bohn