Clay Guida vs. Anthony Pettis

A fight that could decide the next lightweight title contender has been booked, as Clay Guida(28-11) will face WEC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis(13-1) at UFC 130 or 131 according to Heavy.

11th ranked Clay Guida has experiences his fair share of ups and downs in the fight game, but with his popularity soaring, and coming off the biggest win(Takanori Gomi) of his 39-fight career, things are looking up for “The Carpenter.” Guida’s non-stop motor and wrestling have been his penchants for victory, as he’s rather limited in the striking department.

Anthony Pettis(ranked 12th) has been an overnight sensation. Once on the cusp of being released by the WEC, Pettis has put together a 4-fight win streak, including his 5-round decision victory over Ben Henderson at WEC 53 for the WEC lightweight title. Pettis was guaranteed a UFC title shot by Dana White, as the WEC was dismantled, but after UFC 125’s lightweight championship draw, Pettis had the option to wait or fight. He has obviously chosen to fight.

This is definitely a clash of styles, which should bring plenty of back and forth moments. Guida has not faced someone with Pettis’ overall athleticism and quickness since Roger Huerta. That fight was a roller coaster for Guida, a fight he let slip through his grasps, and ever since he has relied more heavily on his grappling. I think Guida knows what’s at stake in this fight, a likely title shot, so expect him to be very conservative especially with coach Greg Jackson in his corner. Pettis’ experience against top competition is still a question mark, so I have to side with the veteran.