Fans are in for a treat at UFC 128. Not only does the card feature a headliner between possibly the best light heavyweight of all time and the fastest rising star in the sport, it's stacked top to bottom with proven performers who bring the highest level of skills to Mixed Martial arts.

If you doubt me, check out all the Judo Chops we have devoted to breaking down the skills of these stars:

But it hasn't all been daisies for our UFC 128 fighters, sometimes they've been on the wrong end of the highlight reel:

The Dangerous Spinning Back Strike with Urijah Faber

Anderson Silva Pulls a Wrestling Switch on Nate Marquardt

Luiz Cane Has No Answer for Antonio Rogerio Nogueira's Left I'll be trying to do a couple more next week as we build up to the fights. Please make your suggestions for Judo Chops featuring the stars of UFC 128 in the comments.



As a treat I'm throwing in a few highlights from the above in the full entry with animated gifs and expert commentary.

Let's start with the champ (gifs are from his Pride Total Elimination 2005 bout with Quinton "Rampage" Jackson) PLEASE NOTE The analysis below predates either of Shogun's fights with Machida.

Devante from Sherdog: The thing about (Rua) is alot of his success standing is based on athleticism, not so much technical excellence. His Muay Thai is ok, his boxing is terrible and his overall kickboxing is so so; the best thing about him is the unpredictable aspect of his standup AND his explosiveness/dynamic quality. Devante from Sherdog: Rua isn't as precise or defensively aware in regards to actual parries, blocks, slips or even control of range. His defense is his offense which handcuffs opponents who don't want to get countered as a result of his ability to overwhelm and the variety of strikes he uses. Also he fights in spots, he isn't consistent; he explodes at different points in a fight and if you're in range or not well rounded in your striking you usually get caught and dropped or stopped. Kid Nate: Note how Shogun's swarming of Rampage Jackson in their 2005 bout at PRIDE's Total Elimination 2005. Shogun fires off a winging capoeira kick that may be called the Martelo Rodado (in TKD a very similar move is called a Tornado Kick) that is partially blocked by Jackson but also wacks him with a fair amount of impact. The kick starts with a feint that has Jackson looking to check a leg kick, taking him a bit off balance. The second gif shows how deadly Shogun can be in the clinch. He comes in from an awkward angle, lands a nasty uppercut then establishes the Thai plum with both hands behind Jackson's neck and begins firing knees.

And now, the challenger (gifs are from his UFC 94 bout with Stephan Bonnar)