Jiu-Jitsu
Perhaps the most underappreciated aspect of Franklin and Liddell’s game is their jiu-jitsu ability. Take into consideration that with over thirty combined fights to their name, neither man has ever been submitted in their careers. On the slim chance that this fight turns into a grappling battle, you would have to give Franklin a slight advantage. Franklin is a jiu-jitsu brown belt under Jorge Gurgel and has held his own on the ground against high-caliber grapplers in the past.
Training with Jake Shields and Eddie Bravo will certainly benefit Liddell in the jiu-jitsu department, but as previously mentioned, it’s going to be difficult to teach Liddell something new at this point in his career.
Franklin has the advantage, 10-9
Conditioning
Cardio has never really been much of an issue for these two former champions. Despite being criticized for his beer belly, Liddell still shows up in good shape come fight night. Franklin has also shown excellent conditioning throughout his career. A three round fight shouldn’t be a problem here.
Draw
The Outcome
For Liddell to win this fight he has to keep away from the sloppy style that cost him dearly in his last few bouts. Franklin has never been known to be a vicious knockout artist, but he does have finishing power and has excellent technique on the feet. Liddell can absolutely knock Franklin out if he can connect with a big overhand right but if he can’t land it he is going to be in trouble standing.
Liddell has the better wrestling pedigree but he won’t be able to do much if he decides to take Franklin down. Franklin’s jiu-jitsu is good enough to get back to his feet or transition into a dominant position on the ground. The result may be different if it were the 2006 version of Liddell fighting the 2006 Franklin but Liddell no longer has the chin for his old style to work.
Franklin by second round TKO.