• UFC 132

Pickett predicts he could beat champion Cruz

ESPN staff
June 29, 2011
Pickett: I could beat Dominick Cruz

English bantamweight Brad Pickett will watch this weekend's UFC 132 main event with interest, believing he is one of the only men who can defeat champion Dominick Cruz.

Pickett's career has currently stalled due to a back injury, but he hopes to be back by the end of the year.

Prior to his setback, the Brit made Ivan Menjivar his 10th victim in 11 fights, including a win over Demetrious Johnson, who recently beat former WEC king Miguel Torres.

Cruz defends his 135lb title against Urijah Faber in Vegas, and Pickett expects the champion to emerge victorious. However, he foresees a different outcome when he eventually earns a title shot.

"Stylistically, Cruz is one of the hardest fights, obviously, he's the champion. He's very elusive on his feet, good wrestling," Pickett told ESPN.

"But out of the top 10, I've got one of the better chances of beating him because of my style.

"I don't think anyone will ever beat him on a decision, he's hard to hit, he's good at scoring points. If it goes five rounds, he's always going to win that fight.

"You need to put him away, and I'm dangerous with my hands. Out of the top 10, I'm one of the few who could put him away."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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