5 keys to victory for Chris Weidman at UFC 194

May 23, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Chris Wiedman (red gloves) celebrates after knocking out Vitor Belfort (not pictured) during their middleweight championship bout during UFC 187 at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Weidman won via first round TKO. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 23, 2015; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Chris Wiedman (red gloves) and Vitor Belfort (blue gloves) fight during their middleweight championship bout during UFC 187 at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Weidman won via first round TKO. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Stay Patient

Before fighting Vitor Belfort, Weidman was primarily known as an extremely aggressive fighter.

However, Weidman survived an early flurry from the Brazilian. Belfort became the aggressor in the fight early, but Weidman showed a veteran mentality and was able to weather the storm. Once Belfort grew tired from the litany of strikes he threw, Weidman capitalized and dominated the rest of the fight.

He may be better off employing a similar approach early in this fight.

If Weidman is overly-aggressive with his wrestling, Rockhold could end up catching him with a kick or a knee early. Rockhold has an advantage with his kicks, and any overextension can be met by a kick or a knee from the former Strikeforce champion Rockhold.

We know that Weidman’s chin is made of granite. He will be able to take punishment and deliver even more. However, Rockhold is an experienced fighter that can capitalize on any mistakes that Weidman may make out of sheer aggressiveness. The key for Weidman will be to not worry about getting things to the ground too quickly, and to take his time. If he can find the right balance between aggression and patience, Rockhold will be in for a long night.

Next: 4. Get inside and work the body

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