Most MMA fans found it odd to see Strikeforce's upcoming "Diaz vs. Daley" card advertised during the pay per view at UFC 128. Still the landscape of MMA has forever changed, and fans need to get used to the fact that the Zuffa juggernaut is now behind Strikeforce machinations.
Despite the fact that all involved have asserted it's going to be "business as usual", there is one certain change at the event: for the first time ever in Strikeforce, elbows will be allowed on the ground. Many fans and pundits have questioned whether or not the new rule change will factor into how the fight plays out.
Diaz will enter the fight a sports betting favorite, and with good reason. Despite Daley's serious power, he's in serious trouble if Diaz gets a dominant position during a grappling exchange. While Daley's defensive wrestling has clearly improved, Diaz will absolutely run game on him if there is any extended period of fighting on the ground. The breeders cup betting fans should look for Diaz to use his considerable reach to keep the fight standing for some time before engaging the Brit in a grappling match. Indeed, if Diaz finds success on the feet, we might not even see this fight go to the ground. In previous matches against K.J. Noons and others, the Stockton native has shown his penchant for the stand up game, despite his considerable BJJ credentials.
With a win here, it will be interesting to see what Zuffa brass have in store for Diaz. Strikeforce suddenly finds themselves with promotional tools and resources like they've never had before. Despite claims of keeping the brands separate, UFC betting fans know that many fans are interested in seeing Diaz back competing in the UFC's welterweight division.
