Although the two are not heated rivals if you compare their clash at Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 194 to the other co-main event featuring Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor, it is apparent that their tiff is something to watch.
Chris Weidman is, of course, an instant favorite, considering his list of achievements. Topping that list is Weidman winning over Anderson Silva which proves the amount of experience he brings to the Octagon against a streaking Rockhold who has won four straight fights.
With that said, it will not be surprising to see Weidman opting to ground Rockhold who has been known to become over-aggressive at times. That as well could prove to be costly for Rockhold, which means he needs to be more careful on what he applies on Weidman this weekend.
But to make sure he covers the bases, he has been training with popular fighters like Cain Velasquez and Daniel Cormier to be prepared at what Weidman possibly brings. Such could help but in the end, it will all be about the proper execution and timing that could lead to his success.
And as in most UFC fights, there are the psyche-outs that come along with it. The trash talk (mild as it seems compared to other matches) are on the table but as far as Rockhold is concerned, that title will be his by the end of the night.
In all, it will be a chess match which is seen as a friendly one by all accounts. When the smoke clears up, both are expected to simmer down and carry on their friendship. Both are not known to be bitter rivals so there should be a lot of respect when the winner is proclaimed.
In short, both will give it all they have and try to outthink the other. It is all about healthy competition and execution which could make or break the chances of either fighter.
