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- Jul 7, 2013
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He was late with his inside strikes. He didn't seem to be able to time Burrell coming in. That's why Burrell was successful with the clinch.
Again, he's excellent at striking at range. He needs work against guys who won't give it to him.
It's true. The timing was close though. Short hooks and ups while moving backwards are definitely something that'll help close up some gaps. There was also some good openings for clean side-elbows to the temple as Burrell closed the distance. The backward-stepping straight punches Silva showed during the Leben fight are also something he could probably pick up very easily and would really clean things up for him.
If he can learn to accurately counter with punches while moving backwards he'll be a tough nut to crack standing. This was not his flashiest showing but he did display some other-wordly head movement. Effortlessly weaved about a dozen hooks/overhands.
As others have said, he does like the karate-style of holding down extra distance and is going to have to adapt and start countering during the constant greco-transitions of MMA. He likely isn't used to it from so many standup-only fights. He'd do well to patch that up soon - there's only going to be more guys trying to wrestle him as he ascends the ranks.