Evans vs Kennedy really is an intriguing bout and if it was on any other card than #UFC205 it would certainly be on the main card.
It’s the first time we will get to see Evans compete at Middleweight and the UFC are not messing around by throwing him in there with Tim Kennedy who will give any 185lber a run for their money. Equally though it’s the first time Kennedy will be in action since UFC 178 which was way back in September 2014. You remember #StoolGate right?
Both men are coming off of the back of a loss (Kennedy lost to Romero, Evans lost to Bader and then got knocked out by Teixeira) and so are both hunting for a win to get their names back to the top of the pile in a division which is stacked with top contenders.
Experience wise both men are on a relatively even par, however, Rashad has certainly fought and won against higher ranked names (Henderson, Ortiz, Jackson & Liddell). For Kennedy, he has struggled in those big fight (Souza, Rockhold & Romero) situations and so will be interesting to see how he deals with Evans.
The layoff will certainly play a factor for Kennedy aswell and whilst he has maintained his health and rigorous workout routines, nothing prepares you for a fight more than fighting. Albeit, Evans has only had two fights during the time that Kennedy has been out of the sport.
Style wise we have two men who are known for their grinding grappling styles, but Rashad has certainly developed his boxing skills over the years and is more than capable of knocking out an opponent should he connect with the right shot. Will he be able to bring his power down to 185lbs though? Will ring rust affect Kennedy? Is Rashad’s head still in the game? All questions we want to know the answers to will be answered in just a few weeks time.
Looking at this fight on paper might not get the juices flowing but I don’t think its one you should be overlooking and has every chance of bringing fireworks on fight night.