Shane Del Rosario vs. Lavar Johnson

An alternate bout for the upcoming Strikeforce heavyweight tournament has been announced as undefeated prospect Shane Del Rosario(10-0) will face veteran Lavar Johnson(15-3) at Strikeforce 32.

26th ranked Del Rosario has been tapped as one of Strikeforce’s top prospects, though he’s had some shaky moments on his feet, specifically his win over Brandon Cash. Del Rosario was rumored to face Andrei Arlovski, but it seems as if he was passed over for the fight and a tournament spot due to his lack of name recognition with mainstream fans.

Lavar Johnson(ranked 39th) has made a remarkable comeback from gunshot wounds suffered in 2009. Johnson’s storybook comeback may take a hit though, as he has not faced a top contender. Johnson’s conditioning and lack of mobility have come to light in recent bouts, so he will need to come into this fight sharp and light on his feet in order to win.

Lavar’s lack of experience versus top competition holds true for Del Rosario as well, but Johnson has not had to face anyone with the skills possessed by Del Rosario. Johnson definitely has the KO power to win this, but he does not have the quickness, nor endurance to be considered the favorite.