UFC 128 Fight Card Preview: Nick Catone Vs Costantinos Philippou

Nick Catone vs. Costantinos Philippou

I wish there were more positive intangibles in this fight but it doesn't look to be the case. Will Catone's 14-month layoff be worse than Philippou's short notice and UFC jitters? I'm not sure. While Philippou comes from a good local camp in Matt Serra and Ray Longo, he's likely only here because of his locality. In fact, Philippou has never competed outside of New Jersey and this will be his first fight outside of Atlantic City's 'Ring of Combat' promotion.

It's hard not to go with Catone in this fight. Ring rust will be an issue with his layoff, but I don't expect him to have a tough reacclimation. He's been here before. Catone's decision loss to Mark Munoz is looking better by the day and he has the reps in the cage. I think Catone finally gets his first stoppage victory in the UFC.