TUF Live stars headed to big futures

Julien Solomita | Staff Writer/Journalist

Joe Proctor finishes off Chris Tickle

This most recent season of the Ultimate Fighter was a big deal. Hosted by FX, the new live format changed the scope of the entire franchise.  These fighters stayed in the house longer than in any previous season. More importantly, they were some of the most talented and well rounded athletes who have ever entered the UFC training center. With almost the entire cast fighting on tonight’s finale, there are a few contestants who may as well be awarded the contract because they are looking at a lucrative future career in the UFC. Justin Lawrence, Joe Proctor and Al Iaquinta all have big time potential that I believe will allow them to thrive under the Zuffa banner. Here’s why:

Justin Lawrence:

  This is an obvious choice. The viciously strong striker was the first pick of the competition and has even been bumped to the main card of tonight’s event, likely due to his fighting style being in such high demand with the fans. Lawrence wrecked James Krause in the preliminary fight to get into the house, and then dismantled grappling expert Cristiano Marcello. It was the ground game and a struggle to stay standing that seemed to slow Lawrence down, but that is just a blemish in the lightweight prospect’s game. The kid is 22 years old and has the power and stand up game beyond his years. His footwork epitomizes athleticism, and makes standing in front of him a deadly option. Working on advancing his ground game, especially with all of the Brazilians at Black House where Lawrence trains, should be no issue for the young gun who will soon be a powerhouse at either 155 or perhaps in the featherweight division.

Prediction: Against John Cofer, Lawrence should be extra focused on staying standing, and will finish his fellow housemate in the first round with a TKO stoppage.

Joe Proctor:

  When training under the tutelage of someone as accomplished as Joe Lauzon, it’s not much of a surprise to see Joe Proctor as a top prospect this season. From his entry to the house where he submitted Jordan Rinaldi, to swiftly choking out Chris Tickle, the Boston kid has proven his durability and patience in getting to his comfort zone in his fights. It isn’t every season where fighters like Proctor show such poise at that age. Even though Proctor was out struck by the lengthy James Vick, I have a good feeling that he learned from that fight, and will continue to improve his game. He is great at putting himself in advantageous positions against fighters with different styles, and has an exciting career in the octagon to look forward to.

Prediction: Proctor by 2^nd round submission over Jeremy Larsen

Al Iaquinta:

  In every single fight this season, Al Iaquinta has absolutely brought it. It is great to see a fighter with his abilities, who can simply plow through opponents with a relentless and pinpointed attack. This Matt Serra fighter showed over and over again that whether on the mat or with his hands, he is able to outwork his opponent and wear them down. In addition, Iaquinta landed the most brutal standing elbow that put down Andy Ogle. This sharp and powerful strike was reminiscent of how Jon Jones used his elbows to daze Rashad Evans on the feet. His approach to every fight is a lot like Rory MacDonald, in that both guys make the statement that they will not be stopped solely by their determination manifesting physically in the cage. He has a tested chin, powerful hands, athleticism and cardio on his side. To beat him, a takedown and submission specialist would have to grind out a decision, but even in that situation, there is no guarantee that Iaquinta would go down. After he wins the show, he will go on to give some upper echelon lightweights a run for their money, and possibly get a peak at UFC gold.

Prediction: Michael Chiesa has heart, but his next opponent won’t fold like his previous ones did. Iaquinta via Unanimous Decision