Barnett Vs. Yvel: The Classic Grappler Vs. Striker
Barnett Vs. Yvel: The Classic Grappler Vs. Striker
By John Gagne
This fight reminds me of an early UFC match up, the classic grappler vs. striker. Even though we have seen Barnett perform well standing against some strikers. I would consider Gilbert Yvel a different type of striker, one Barnett has never faced. Yvel is explosive and technical, two potentially lethal combinations. He throws stuff Barnett has never seen. On the other hand the same can be said about Gilbert Yvel. He has never faced a grappler with the submission ability of Josh Barnett. Barnett is extremely agile for a man his size. His transitions and takedowns are virtually flawless.
I believe this fight will have three main components that will contribute to each fighter’s demise or triumph. These components are, takedowns/takedown defense, submission defense, and Yvels ability to control his temper.
We all know that Barnett wants this fight on the ground. If he can take Yvel down, with ease, the night will be extremely short for both fighters. And will probably be the best money for the easiest fight in Barnett’s career. If Yvel has tremendously enhanced his takedown defense, and can defend the first four or five Barnett takedowns, he may lure Barnett into a kickboxing match. If he cannot, I hope his submission defense has improved. I would be happy with decent guard work. Well, decent enough to get a stand up for lack of action.
If all goes as planned the fight should end in the late first or early to mid second. Unless Barnett can land enough punches to really upset Yvel enough to get DQ’D before that. I will take Barnett by submission. I think a key lock will finish the fight.
This fight has really bad odds. I would definitely not recommend taking any action on this fight. Even with Yvel’s superior striking ability. I do not see him getting the KO. Josh Barnett has way too much experience. And he has been in the ring with the best in the business. I anticipate a match with Fedor in 2009.