UFC 239: A closer look at Jorge Masvidal
This Saturday, UFC 239 takes place in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, Nevada, where Jorge “Gamebred” Masvidal is set to go up against Ben “Funky” Askren, in what should be an interesting bout.
Masvidal holds a record of 33-13, including 14 KOs, 2 Submissions and 17 Decisions, with his most recent victory coming over Darren Till after landing an overhand left flush on the chin of Till in the second round stoppage. He also has impressive victories over the likes of Donald Cerrone, Jake Ellenberger, Michael Johnson, and the list goes on. Masvidal has also never been finished since joining the UFC.
“Gamebred” is an absolute dog, and his never back down mentality is both relatable and admirable. Masvidal has been fighting since he was a young kid, growing up in the streets of Miami with immigrant parents, forcing him to learn that the would have to fight for what he wants at a very young age. You can find videos of young Masvidal participating in Kimbo Slice’s Backyard Street Fights, scrapping grown men that were much larger than him, all for fun. This I believe is what made him want to pursue and dedicate his life to Mixed Martial Arts, for some people are just born to fight, and Masvidal is one of those people. The man is just down.
Recently, after picking up the win over Till, not even 30 minutes after the bout had concluded, he picked up another “win” over Leon Edwards backstage, after Edwards said a snarky remark while walking by during Masvidal’s backstage interview, which prompted Masvidal to approach him and retaliate. This is when he presented Edwards with what he then called a “Three Piece and a Soda.” But in all seriousness, expect that bout to come to fruition sometime and for those problems to be solved in the Octagon.
Masvidal clearly is a stand and bang kind of scrapper, but is also well rounded on the ground with his Jiu-Jitsu and wrestling, while his opponent Askren is on the opposite spectrum, with a preference to take it to the ground and maul you or submit you, or perhaps even just big brother you for 3 to 5 rounds. All in all, this should be a good scrap and in the words of the great Chael Sonnen, “It begs the question,” does “Gamebred” have what it takes to withstand “Funky’s” pressure? We will surely find out Saturday night!
Your friendly neighborhood MMA enthusiast.
