UFC 129 Fight Card: Yves Jabouin Vs. Pablo Garza Preview

As part of the UFC 129 fight card, featherweights (145lbs) Yves Jabouin and Pablo Garza will lead off the preliminary portion of the card. Jabouin, a noted striker and training partner of Georges St. Pierre, looks to make a strong impression in his UFC debut. Garza had a rough start in Zuffa, but rebounded with a ferocious knockout of Fredson Paixao.

Here's how this fight breaks down:

As you'll see me indicate in the video, here's another fantastic under card bout at UFC 129: St. Pierre vs. Shields. The fight doesn't necessarily hold significance for the card or featherweight division, but creates intrigue given how the fighters' games match up. Yves Jabouin vs. Pablo Garza is a featherweight (145lbs) bout. Jabouin is a technical striker, although he on occasion eschews purposeful strategy in favor of striking exhibitions. Garza is a moderately well-rounded fighter, but is tall for the weight class (6'1") who knows how to use his length. He also isn't much of a set up fighter, preferring instead to attack early with bullish intent to finish.

Neither Jabouin nor Garza are fighting for contendership. Garza might have more upside in that regard. He is coming off a bomb of a win over Fredson Paixao, but he's got a long climb even if he gets by Jabouin.

Still, this fight is interesting for a couple of reasons. Jabouin is the better striker generally, but might have precision issues particularly because of Garza's length. Garza also isn't necessarily the best wrestler, so while he has an advantage of the ground it is not a foregone conclusion he can drag the fight there. It's much more likely this fight will come down to what extent Garza employs length and manages real estate.

I spoke to Garza recently. I worry about his preparation, but believe he'll ultimately be able to make the fight more his than Jabouin. The Canadian is an excellent striker, but lacks discipline in keeping the fight on a strategic path.