Prospect in the Spotlight (May 22-23): Richie Miranda

Introduction

Friday, May 22nd, American lightweight prospect Richie Miranda will be in action for the LFA, where he will be looking continue his winning ways against Robert Varricchio. He will be looking for another win, as Miranda looks to inch closer to a UFC contract. He represents CSW Training Center and Bloodline Combat Sports, both solid camps in MMA. Let’s take a closer look at this prospect as this week’s “Prospect Spotlight.”

Strengths

Submission Wrestling: Miranda has a typical submission wrestling style of a guy whose background includes the CSW Training Center. Under the tutelage of Erik Paulson, he has acquired an impressive wrestling ability that he links together with a strong transitional game and submission arsenal. He has excellent ground-and-pound that is reminiscent of the Tito Ortiz days of MMA, as well as the ability to grab a neck and finish.

Toughness: There is no doubting the resolve and physical toughness of Miranda. Watch his five-round dog fight with Richie Lewis. For most of the fight, Miranda was getting beat up and hammered by Lewis, appearing to be on his way to a decision loss. However, due to his toughness and gas tank, Miranda was able to stay in the fight with Lewis (who had tired out) and turn the tables, scoring a stoppage in the final round in what was an excellent show of spirit. That toughness is something that can’t be taught.

Needs Improvement

Defensive Wrestling: In his split decision loss to Kegan Gennrich and even his come-from-behind win against the aforementioned Lewis, the holes in Miranda’s wrestling defenses have been tested and broken through. While he does have some solid counter-wrestling and offensive wrestling, he has had his biggest troubles when fending off a strong, based wrestler, something that will be aplenty in the UFC and major leagues in general.

Outlook

UFC Midcarder: I’m actually surprised Miranda isn’t on the UFC roster at this point, but I don’t think he will be outside the company for long. Given his physical toughness, penchant for exciting fights and level of skill, he should surely be on the cusp whether it’s winning this LFA fight this weekend or earning a Contender Series spot this season. He is a guy that could have a solid career in the UFC and have some really fun fights.