UFC 103 Preview: Martin Kampmann vs. Paul Daley

Martin "The Hitman" Kampmann (15-2, 6-1 UFC) vs. Paul "Semtex" Daley (21-8-2, 0-0 UFC)

The Story So Far

Kampmann vs. Daley is really a story of what could have been.

Daley is an unwanted guest to a dance that was reserved for Martin Kampmann and Mike Swick. Unfortunately Swick suffered a concussion three weeks ago and withdrew from his number one contender bout with Kampmann. Now Daley steps in hopefully dressed to impress.

Both fighters are trying to overcome what some fans feel is a let down. Anytime a number one contender bout falls apart right before an event due to an injury there are bound to be feelings of disappointment. Unless something remarkable happens the third fight of the televised cards has lost much of its luster. If Daley scores the upset it only serves to muddle the 170lbs. division further. If Kampmann wins he will have only taken care of business and will probably need one more win to get a crack at St. Pierre. 

Daley will be making his Octagon debut. "Semtex" was signed by the UFC, after some posturing by the British fighter, once Affliction collapsed. Paul has fought and lost against Jake Shields and Josh Thompson. 

Martin Kampmann was a bright middleweight prospect until his knee shattered into a thousand pieces (editor's note: the exact number is unknown). After a lengthy rehab, and an ass kicking courtesy of Nate Marquardt, Kampmann dropped to welterweight where he defeated former WEC champion, Carlos Condit, this spring. 

Conventional Wisdom

Martin Kampmann will utilize the same strategy he employed against Carlos Condit. Kampmann's takedowns and ground-and-pound will neutralize Daley's striking. 

WKR Analysis

WKR is curious about what state of mind Kampmann is in. It must be hard to mentally adjust from fighting for a title shot to facing a new opponent. The drop off in potential payout may cause a drop off in desire and that is a dangerous mix against a hungry fighter with strong hands who is also making his UFC debut. 

Fun Fact

Kampmann was born in Aarhus, Denmark. Aarhus is the oldest big city of Scandinavia going back to early Viking times.

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