(Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)
The Prelim Breakout Star is a once per event article that helps fans get to know those who will be entertaining them from the undercard. The intention of the article is not to bring attention the most talented guy on the preliminary card, but rather one that the common fan may have overlooked or underestimated.
The Prelim Breakout Star has become sort of a home for Ultimate Fighter alumni. Often, they are overlooked due to the popular belief that the talent level has dropped. Although the argument that fewer fighters from the show are going on to become champions, the talent level is not completely depleted. Daron Cruickshank is the perfect example of a fighter who, while on the show, did not look impressive. However, his performances since has clearly made the statement that he deserves a second look.
Daron Cruickshank
Nickname – The Detroit Superstar
From – Westland, Michigan
Height – 5’8”
Weight – 155lbs (Lightweight)
Record – 12-2 (2-0 UFC)
What makes him impressive
Born from a Taekwondo black belt of a father and a professional kickboxer for a mom, Daron Cruickshank was born to strike. He certainly hasn’t disappointed MMA fans either, knocking out over half of his opponents. Owning a black belt in Taekwondo in his own right, he demonstrates some of the most ferocious body kicks in the UFC. The power that radiates through his legs, if it wasn’t already, became abundantly clear as he pounded away at the very strong-willed Henry Martinez.
As if his striking is not enough to convince people that he’s the real deal, he was also a collegiate wrestler. While this wrestling was only at the Division III school, Olivet College, it has provided him with enough takedown defense to keep the fight where he likes it.
Why he’s been overlooked
As I always tend to mention, it is tough for fighters to overcome the judgement that are passed to them as a result of appearing on The Ultimate Fighter. This is especially true when they had as rough of an appearance as Cruickshank did. Despite appearing to be a much stronger striker, Cruickshank was caught in the first fight in the house by a James Vick knee. Being eliminated in the first round made him a relative unknown in the house and took camera time away from him despite his very evident skills
What makes this a good matchup
Cruickshank loves to strike and the UFC has kindly placed him into a match with a person who will oblige him. While John Makdessi is also known for his striking, his athleticism and ability to keep distance is not quite as good as Cruickshank. He also does not exhibit the pure power in kicks, which will likely keep him from getting in punching range.
Daniel Vreeland is a writer (PrelimPicker) and teacher with an avid love for martial arts. He has practiced jiu jitsu and submission grappling under and next to many top names including Royce Gracie, Rousimar Palhares, Murilo Bustamante and Marco Alvan. He has placed in multiple NAGA grappling tournaments and currently trains under black belt Dave Roy in Amherst, MA.
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