UFC 194: ‘Early stoppage from Aldo’– Paul Daley

The exam question has changed. He’s one of the most polarising figures in MMA at the moment. Conor McGregor stands on the brink of greatness as he prepares to face off against Jose Aldo, one of the most dominant champions in the sport of mixed martial arts. I like Conor McGregor and it’s obvious that his introduction to the big show has propelled him quickly into superstar status and effectively bought more eyes on a division that, to a certain extent, lacked real characters with star power. A cursory look through his opponents reveal a common trait suited to his style. All, bar Chad Mendes, are a who’s who of featherweight strikers, all of them have come up short against the 'Notorious' one. His current winning streak and unstoppable momentum have propelled him unchecked. Until now. The match up with Aldo, whilst suited to McGregor’s style, has all the hallmarks of what should amount to an amazing stand up war. It’s a war that Aldo will win. Although it will be close the exam question has changed. This is McGregor’s first real test. Aldo will simply be too much for him everywhere. In a stand up battle he’ll make light work of McGregor’s wide stance, his habitual dropping of his hands and flamboyant, but ineffective kicks. Five rounds is never easy. But I see an early stoppage from Aldo within two rounds.