Tony Ferguson vs. Kevin Lee: What will go down:

Who takes this one?
The main event of UFC 216 not only presents a talented meeting of two slick grapplers competing for UFC gold, but also offers the emerging victor a legitimate pathway to a match up alongside UFC Lightweight champ Conor McGregor, as the #2 ranked Tony 'El Cucuy' Ferguson takes on the brash Kevin Lee in an Interim battle.

Not many Lightweight contenders can realistically stake a claim that they deserve a shot at the title besides Tony Ferguson and maybe Brazil's Edson Barboza as of now. Riding one of the most impressive winning streaks in recent 155lbs memory, California's Tony Ferguson has amassed 9 consecutive victories, dispatching both Lando Vannata and the aforementioned Barboza via his patented D'arce choke to note, while also submitting Gleison Teibau and Abel Trujillo. The most impressive victory on the run for Ferguson so far has to be his dismantling of former champ Rafael Dos Anjos over five rounds in their main event bout. Ferguson is much more than just a dangerous grappler, possessing a stiff jab and creative striking on the feet. One of 'El Cucuy{s}' most unorthodox techniques is the 'Imanari' roll, brought to prominence by now Bellator star Rory MacDonald and Ryan Hall. Used by Ferguson quite frequently, it presents the option of a heel hook as the aggressor slides in search of his or her opponent's ankle.

Almost reminiscent of a younger Conor McGregor certainly in terms of his trash talking, 'The Motown Phenom' Kevin Lee has certainly grabbed the attention of the Lightweight elite with his brash nature and outlandish outfits, but his displays in the octagon as of late have done their own talking. A quite comfortable submission victory over Brazil's Francisco Trinaldo was followed up by another rear-naked choke triumph, be it in controversial circumstances, as Lee 'overcame' grappling ace Michael Chiesa. Laying down some punishing strikes form the top. Lee then took 'The Maverick{s}' back. locking in an RNC. but before any tap from Chiesa, the often questioned Mario Yamasaki called a halt to the contest. Undoubtedly the biggest test in Lee's career to date will be Tony Fergusom. but a win over the self claimed 'El Cucuy' could only see a rise in the youngster's stock.

Despite Lee's slick grappling and tidy stand up, Ferguson has faced more dangerous strikers in the form of Edson Barboza and grapplers in the form of the recently highlighted RDA, a well respected 3rd degree black belt in BJJ. With only half an inch in reach advantage to Kevin Lee, both men will be looking to engage in close proximity. In my opinion, striking and grappling advantage to 'El Cucuy'.

Tony Ferguson via submission.

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