UFC 130 Fight Card: Tim Boetsch vs. Kendall Grove In Depth Preview
22.02.28
Against Boetsch, he'll want to keep his waist and hips away while keeping his chin protected. Just like Grove can chain things together in the free movement phase, Boetsch can and will interchange takedown attempts with heavy strikes here, forcing Grove to adapt to the changing landscape of duress.
Their roles standing are effectively reversed in the clinch, as the tall technician has no need to panic or lose composure if Boetsch gets ahold of him, and can even finish the fight from here in myriad way.
However, close-range brawling is "The Barbarian's" sweet spot, and though it's not based on technical skill, I think he'll do well against Grove in the clinch.
Advantage: Boetsch
Grappling Phase
Perhaps guilty of optimism, I thought Grove showed amazing artistry on the ground with Demian Maia. Not only did he survive in extended periods of time, but patiently persevered Maia taking his back on numerous occasions. If you're going to lose a ground battle and walk away looking good, fighting off one of the best grapplers in MMA history from a litany of precarious positions is a great way to do it.
Source: Bloody Elbow