Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at newcomer Max Griffin as he takes on American Top Team wrestling specialist Colby Covington at UFC 202 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Max “Pain” Griffin Hometown: Sacramento, California Age: 30 Height: 6’0” Reach: Weight Class: Welterweight Camp: Marinoble’s Martial Arts Career Record: 12-2 Key Wins: Fernando Gonzalez, David Mitchell Key Losses: Chidi Njokuani Background Griffin had his first sniff of the UFC losing in the opening round of The Ultimate Fighter 16. He’s had decent success outside of the UFC beating Bellator’s Fernando Gonzalez and former UFC fighter David Mitchell. Griffin also holds a black belt in Bok Fu. Strengths
- Physically strong
- One punch knockout power
- Aggressive, brawling striker
- Good ground and pound from top position
Weaknesses
- Relies too much on physical gifts as opposed to technique
- Doesn’t combine strikes well
- Needs to work on striking defense
- Vulnerable to takedowns and giving up his back
Match-up against Colby Covington A tough debut matchup for Max Griffin against Colby Covington. Griffin is a good athlete with above average knock out. He’s a threat early on in this fight, but if he’s unable to hurt his opponent early and get the knockout it’s going to be a long night. Covington is a very good wrestler and I expect him to be able to score takedowns in this fight with ease. Covington should be able to control this fight from top decision and earn a decision win. UFC Ceiling Max Griffin is predominantly a brawler with good knockout power. He’s able to pressure fighters on the feet and take control in brawling type fights. He’s vulnerable on the ground and can be controlled by even decent wrestlers on the mat. While he’s a threat on the feet, he’s going to struggle in the UFC as wrestling is such an important facet of success in MMA. Fight Film Check out Max Griffin in some of his most recent fights: Max Griffin vs. David Mitchell Max Griffin vs. Randall Wallace