UFC 172: Jones Shuts Down Teixeira Over Five Rounds In Bolstering Baltimore

UFC
UFC 172: Jones vs. Teixeira
Saturday 26 April 2014
Baltimore Arena, Baltimore, MD, USA.

BY NISAR KHAN

Jon Jones once again, stood atop the Light Heavyweight division as the kingpin in the pound-for-pound rankings, dispatching dangerous Brazilian Glover Teixeira over five rounds.



Jonny “Bones” Jones secured his mark as the most successful Champion in Light Heavyweight history, with his win over Glover Teixeira being his seventh consecutive win, in total his 14th win in the division.

Yet again, Jones proved in favor of statements that he may be the best pound-for-pound fighter in the World, with creative offense to fend off the formidable striker who came into the bout on a 20-fight win streak.

SEE ALSO · NBA Playoffs 2014: Full Coverage

In the late Championship rounds, Jones elbows were making their mark on Teixeira, who showed signs of damage with a huge cut across his forehead and nose. However, the Brazilian, although complimenting Jones, also revealed that he suffered a shoulder injury in the first round – though he abstained from compromising his performance, saying “he [Jones] beat me at my best”.

Teixeira was able to stub some takedowns during the goings of the fight, although the majority of an entertaining battle would be contested in the stand-up. Jon “Bones” Jones proved he could match the dangerous striker, standing right in front of him and dishing out blows. At times, he showed a glimpse of trouble but took it back to the Octagon and controlled the fight with startling, versatile offense.

Out comes the mouthguard. #Boom! #UFC172 pic.twitter.com/2sTujaTGlQ
— Nisar Khan (@iNisarKhan) April 27, 2014

A win over Teixeira may now put Alexander Gustafsson back into the focus, after his win at UFC in London back in March.

Jones paid tribute to Baltimore Ravens’ legend Ray Lewis, imitating his dance during his entrance. The athletic prowess of the Jones’ family was clear to see with his two brothers, both in the NFL (one a SuperBowl winner, the other a first-round draft pick) ringside. 

In the co-main event, Anthony Johnson dominated Phil Davis to mark his return to the organization. Phil Davis was outmatched in the striking, and any attempts to utilize his wrestling with takedowns were punished, as Johnson kicked him or struck off too fast for the All-American. Johnson would land some wild shots, though Davis would not succumb, and lasted the course – even though he had little chance of making out a win on the judges perspective.

Luke Rockhold set his sights on Michael Bisping and Vitor Belfort after a submission showcase agianst Tim Boetsch. Rockhold would get the job done in the first round after the fight was taken to the ground, scrambling into a reverse triangle and finishing the fight. If you’re a fan of submissions, UFC 172 was your night..

Jim Miller had his hand raised after 3 minutes of fighting against Yancy Medeiros securing an outstanding 14th career submission victory. Tying the record for most submission attempts in UFC history (31), Miller finished it as Medeiros went unconscious after battling the choke. Taking the fight on a week’s notice, Medeiros was game as he courageously fought against the submission and glancing body kicks left a mark on Miller, who called out anyone in the lightweight division to face him next.

Hawaiian Max Holloway started with a finish – the main card, that is. Holloway submitted the upcoming Andre Fili with a guillotine choke after an entertaining opening scrap. With both being young talents, there was some wild exchanges, though Holloway would not squander the opportunity when it was presented, securing a tight guillotine choke after a takedown attempt went south.  

“What a way for the UFC to break history as they touch down in Baltimore for the first time. Classy opponents Jon Jones and Glover Teixeira – to go with finishes all over the card. Performance bonuses will be hard to pick for this one, from a flying knee, one-punch knockout, ‘night of guillotines’ and more. 

“The main event itself was entertaining. It was one of those fights where you were expecting one guy to just drop. Both chins held up. For Teixeira, he still has a lot of exciting matchups while there is a big queue waiting for a fight with Jones.

“UFC 173 was flat out spectacular.”

There was no shortage in noteworthy events from the preliminary fights, including a flying-knee knockout from Chris Beal, making a picture-perfect debut as he left Patrick Williams out cold. Joseph Benavidez – who has challenged Demetrius Johnson for the Flyweight title twice – executed an audaciously technical guillotine choke to Tim Elliott, whereby the American trapped both hands of Elliott, forcing him to stop on the mat to tap out. To add to the expanding candidates for performance bonuses, Danny Castillo landed a rattling one-punch knockout to Charlie Brenneman in the early stages of Round 2.

Jon Jones keeps his crown to deter the Brazilian. But he knows all too well that plenty of challenges await the 26-year-old. 

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Johny Hendricks Emerges As New UFC Welterweight Champion In Thrilling Dallas Main Event

UFC

BY NISAR KHAN

UFC 171: Hendricks vs. Lawler

Saturday 15 March 2014

American Airlines Center, Dallas, Texas (USA)

DALLAS – Johny Hendricks was victorious in his hometown as he edged out Robbie Lawler in a 48 – 47 unanimous decision victory at the American Airlines Center.

Overwhelmed: Johny Hendricks sports the Gold round his waist. UFC

Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler engaged in a thrilling main-event in Dallas and it would ultimately be decided in the fifth and final round. “Big Rig” controlled the first two rounds with his leg-kicks proving the difference, and making a clear mark on Robbie Lawler – whose right leg swelled in the second round. However, fighting out of the blue corner, Robbie Lawler controlled the third round and put Johny Hendricks in deep trouble, with huge shots. In spite of landing cleanly, Johny Hendricks did not drop throughout the fight, and nor did Robbie Lawler, throughout the fight. Going into the fifth round, it was clear that both men were even on the judges’ scorecards. An opportunistic and smart Johny Hendricks seized the opportunity by grinding out the early minutes, before landing a takedown with around half-a-minute to go, ultimately scoring the round in his favor and more importantly getting a grasp of the illusive UFC gold that many thought he should have earned in November last year. 

“I know I’ll fight him again, and maybe I’ll give a better performance” said an overwhelmed Johny Hendricks following his victory. Fighting out of Dallas, Texas, Johny Hendricks fell to his knees and released an uproar of celebration after it was announced that he was the new Champion. Soon after, Robbie Lawler praised his performance and acknowledged how close he came. It was a valiant effort from Lawler, who fell short on the day, and his lengthy reign in the UFC will continue should he want to pursue the gold. 

Tyron Woodley defeated Carlos Condit in the co-main event, as the former Interim Welterweight Champion blew his knee out during the fight. An exciting first round saw both come out and trade a few big shots, but in the second, a takedown would seem to tweak the knee of Condit, before a leg-kick to the opposite leg would force Carlos Condit to collapse in pain as his knee buckled. Replays showed that Carlos Condit was in tremendous pain after the takedown, supporting Tyron Woodley’s statement after the fight where he claimed it was all his doing. Despite the big win, the nature of his victory may still keep him a fight or two from a title shot. 

Myles Jury applied the ultimate game plan in order to defy Diego Sanchez. The Mexican Sanchez, coming off an epic fight at UFC 166, attempted to apply his aggression with exchanges similar to that he had with Gilbert Melendez. Jury played his cards right and backed off slightly, and tactically got the win on points. 

Hector Lombard dominated Jake Shields in a unanimous decision victory. It was an impressive opening round for the Judo-Olympian, of who also used some Judo with significant takedowns in the fight. Round 1 would see Jake Shields put into some deep trouble with an outburst of huge shots from Lombard, however he slowed down noticeably in the remaining two rounds. That alone took it far from an impressive win, as he cruised past Jake Shields at ease yet didn’t display the credentials needed for a title challenge. It seems like his cardio wasn’t good enough to keep up the pressure, and after his win he said “I could have given more in the third round”, acknowledging his decreased effort in the fight.

Ovince St. Preux impressively opened the main card with a rare “Von Flue” Choke almost subtlety dispatch Nikita Krylov. The 22-year old was out cold after being submitted in the first round as St. Preux got his tenth career finish.

There was plenty of great preliminary action too in a really stacked card, that included TUF 17 winner Kelvin Gastelum edging out Rick Story with a split decision win, while earlier in the night Jessica Andrade defeated Raquel Pennington. 



Analysis, Comment & Breakdown

Rare submission a credit to Saint Preux’s ability

Many people watching the action at home were unaware of what exactly happened for a few moments when the fight was stopped and Ovince Saint Preux went to celebrate. Having worked the submission on the ground, it was locked in tightly and even Nikita Krylov couldn’t tap before he passed out. A submission like that is an incredible rarity inside the Octagon, further adding to his credentials and ever-growing MMA ability. 

Hector Lombard gasses out, needs to show more for title talk

Defeating an esteemed fighter such as Jake Shields is always a big accomplishment. However Hector Lombard may have inadvertently contributed to his own criticism, after he slowed down in the latter two rounds and didn’t push for the finish. One could argue that the Olympian showed maturity not to empty the gas tank and go for the first round knockout, but then it could just be a lack of opportunity. Many enjoyed his Judo throws which were a great part of the bout, when they were used, but Lombard simply didn’t give it his all, and he even knew it, and said it.

Myles Jury applies perfect game plan to defy Diego Sanchez

Diego Sanchez was completely shut down by Myles Jury in Dallas. In some cases, the Mexican may have beat himself in regards to his mindset and ongoing aggression rather than the more tactical approach. Despite how tempting, Myles Jury did not really engage in any prolonged wild swings, but backed away and created space just to score. It was far from the ideal zone for Diego Sanchez to fight in.

Woodley’s win overshadowed by injury, what would have happened if the fight went on?

Its always unfortunate to see a fight end in injury. This has somewhat taken some of the sting out of Tyron Woodley’s win. Both exchanged really well in the action we saw, and with all due respect, Woodley cannot exactly take all credit for his takedown injuring Condit, it was an accident. If the fight went on it may have been really close, and Condit was setting up for a finish.

Hendricks finally gets the belt, Lawler humble in defeat, Welterweight showcase

It was a showcase of fine Welterweight action at UFC 171. What a great fight we had between Robbie Lawler and Johny Hendricks. Both stood in front of one another and traded, and it really is a Fight of the Year candidate. Robbie Lawler will have to wait longer for the taste of Gold if it happens, but what a great showing by him too. Joe Rogan pitted Rory McDonald as Hendricks’ potential next opponent, do you agree?

Superb fights in a stacked card as Johny Hendricks leads the way for a new era inside the Octagon. 

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A Look At UFC’s Vast Expansion To Worldwide Success As The Fastest Growing Sport In The World

UFC

BY NISAR KHAN

Over twenty years in, and the UFC has already emerged as the fastest growing sport in the World. Starting as a smalltime company that was criticized, it has vastly expanded over time in a truly remarkable story.

20 years and counting, the Octagon has expanded Worldwide. UFC.COM

The Octagon took its place on British soil last weekend in the opening fight night to a series that would go across Europe and Asia. A sold-out O2 Arena, that witnessed Alexander Gustafsson knock out Jimi Manuwa, was a real exemplification of the UFC’s global grasp.

Back in November of 1993 is where it all began. 2,300 people were in attendance in Colarado for UFC’s first ever event. At the time, the sport would undergo criticism – for inhumane fighting and its classification as a sport brought it under scrutiny. 

Little rules were incorporated with the “MMA” branding early on, and it was really seen as a ruthless spectacle with near to no rules, although this was not entirely exact with things such as groin strikes or biting banned. 

UFC 1 was a tournament, where eight fighters would go through three fights maximum to win $50,000. Royce Gracie, an undoubted pioneer in the sport won, with a submission of Gerard Gordeau in the final to win. 

All fights were finished on the night that the UFC was established. 86,000 people bought it, but the UFC would soon have to adapt to really be appreciated as a Worldwide sport. 



In the early years of the UFC era, there were no weight divisions, and it was highly-believed from martial artists that technique could overcome size in a fight.

It would take eighteen events in the space of four years before the UFC would venture out of US territory. Of course this is logical, as the sport needed to be appreciated back home in the states before heading on outwards.

There was an early reputation of the UFC of extreme violence of which would quickly concern the American authorities. 

Senator John McCain opposed the UFC openly and his campaign led to 36 states banning the sport. This would force the UFC to reform, and they did so, working with state athletic commissions and introducing stricter rules.

While the core parts of the sport such as striking, wrestling and grappling were retained, the less favorable elements that gave the sport a nature of violence helped the organization to grow into a sport and that would be key for International success.

Attendance was relatively low at times, but its steady increase was in correlation as criticism dwindled, with the UFC moving towards a more established sport.

In December of 1997, the UFC organization step foot on Japanese soil for UFC Ultimate Japan. With the inclusion of stricter rules, the UFC was able to go forth. 

The first seven years leading up to the 21st century were slow for the UFC were criticism was always sounding off and the organization learned many lessons to adapt and become the fastest growing sport in the World. 

Many have credited the Fertita Brothers and Dana White for really propelling the UFC. After they bought it for $2 million, they were able to grow the sport like no one could have imagined. 

From then on in, it would grow and grow. After setting a record high 150,000 pay-per-view buys at UFC 40, it would be smashed to 300,000 over a year later at UFC 52. The UFC had become mainstream, emerging as a top PPV sport.

Buying other MMA organizations would further enhance the UFC as it began to expand Worldwide. 

China, Japan, Germany, Australia, UK, Brazil and others had been gripped by UFC. 

Its really astonishing how the UFC went from such a criticized sport on the brink of a collapse to the fastest growing sport in the World, set to take over more with a UFC Fight Night tour spanning the Globe. 

Watching UFC in London made many aware of how powerful the UFC has become, and now rivals a sport like boxing. 

The Octagon continues to make its esteemed journey around the World, further surging the UFC into a prominent era of success.

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UFC 167: Georges St-Pierre Sets Record Win After Split Decision Title Defense

UFC > UFC PPV 

BY NISAR KHAN

LAS VEGAS – Georges St-Pierre retained his UFC Welterweight Championship via Split Decision to score a record 18th UFC win.



It was a win that came in controversial fashion with many believing that Johny Hendricks had actually won the fight.

Prior to the main event, Rashad Evans knocked out Chael Sonnen, and Rory MacDonald battled Robbie Lawler in an entertaining battle.

At a Glance: Prelims

Cody Donovan and Gian Villante engaged in a terrific fight to kick things off in the Online Prelims, which saw Villante land a huge shot in the second round to open the night with a victory.

Sergio Pettis – younger brother to UFC Lightweight Champion Anthony Pettis – scored a Unanimous Decision win over Will Campuzano.

Jason High dominated Anthony Lapsley in a dominant Unanimous Decision win to conclude the online preliminary bouts.

Erik Perez decimated Edwin Figueroa in a Unanimous Decision victory to rebound from his previous loss.

Rick Story was unable to finish Brian Ebersole although defeating him all around the Octagon as he won via Unanimous Decision, while Leite wins in same fashion against Ed Herman.

Donald Cerrone was looking at his peak with a top performance with a Triangle that forced Evan Dunham to tap.

Tim Elliott vs. Ali Bagautinov

Tim Elliott and Ali Bagautinov went the distance in the main card opener, which saw the Russian prevail by decision.

Fast paced from the outset, the duo battled around the Octagon with ferocious striking – perhaps containing the most important difference, Bagautinov’s striking accuracy, constantly putting damage on Elliott whenever he advanced.

Josh Koscheck vs. Tyron Woodley

Heavy-hitting Welterweights Josh Koscheck and Tyron Woodley shared the Octagon floor with Koscheck landing a brutal KO in the late stages of Round 1.

Right from the outset, Josh Koscheck was momentarily dropped as Woodley hurt him early. For the majority of the first round the two traded shots with Koscheck landing the majority. As the round progressed, Koscheck was tagged again, cut from Woodley and having to cling on to the guard to stop any further punishment. With seconds remaining of the first round, Tyron Woodley landed a brutal right hand, followed by another as Koscheck dropped before the referee brought a stop to the bout.

GIF: Tyron Woodley knocks out Josh Koscheck in Round 1.

Rory MacDonald vs. Robbie Lawler

Welterweight up-comer and experienced fighters collided in a superb fight that celebrated UFC’s 20th Anniversary emphatically. Robbie Lawler defeated Rory MacDonald in a fight that went the distance.

In the first round, Rory MacDonald was making the most noise, along with the crowd in the arena who backed him, with strikes that were not significant, but plentiful. A close opener saw neither take control, but Robbie Lawler hurt MacDonald with a big shot causing MacDonald to take it to the ground. 

After a close first round, Robbie Lawler looked certain to have won the second with more shots hurting MacDonald. The Canadian was slow, hurt possibly, as he took it to the ground with little work done. 

As Robbie Lawler continued to throw bombs, Rory MacDonald was able to stay put and finish the fight. A great battle with Lawler getting the majority of the damage served. MacDonald finished with a late flurry of elbows, but Lawler won by Split Decision.

GIF: Robbie Lawler lands big shots on Rory MacDonald, but none stop the Canadian.

Rashad Evans vs. Chael Sonnen

A friendship was put on hold in the co-main event as Rashad Evans battled Chael Sonnen. From start to finish, it was a mauling by Evans who won by way of TKO.

The two began trading early on and Chael Sonnen got hurt from an early shot. Eventually when Chael Sonnen looked to impose his wrestling game, Evans obliged and worked down on the Ground & Pound. After finally turning the “American Gangster” onto his front, he threw the shots down forcing the stoppage.

GIF: Chael Sonnen scores the TKO victory against Chael Sonnen.

Georges St-Pierre vs. Johny Hendricks

There was a big fight feel in Vegas as the two touched gloves before heading to their corners to fight. It was a promising start for Johny Hendricks who landed a few shots early, traded with Georges and kept his wrestling game up. St-Pierre took some big shots and took a cut in one striking exchange. Hendricks also had a promising second round where it looked possible that he could finish St-Pierre.

In the third round, Hendricks seemed to have slowed down quite a bit but Hendricks landed a late takedown. The bout would continue as we were headed to the Championship rounds.

The two battled in the Championship rounds but neither could finish. It was fantastic to watch as the two battled back-and-forth. With seconds remaining, a Kimura attempt from GSP was unsuccessful.

Georges St-Pierre went on to win by a close Split Decision victory. Controversial? You bet.

Post-fight, Georges St-Pierre said he was “taking a break” from the UFC to deal with “personal” matters. Is this the end of GSP? It was a tough fight, he took punishment yet surprisingly still won. 

Johny Hendricks gave the performance of his life at UFC 167. Hendricks punished GSP and pushed him to the limit, but it didn’t look like that on the judges scorecards.

GSP remains on top. For Hendricks, tonight was not the night although many thought he deserved to win. The UFC celebrates twenty years in the same way that got the World’s attention in its birth, an exciting night in the Octagon.

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UFC 165: Jones Retains Championship in Epic Five Round Thriller

By Nisar Khan

TORONTO – Jon Jones overcame the biggest challenge of his career as he triumphed against Alexander Gustaffson in an epic battle for the Light Heavyweight Championship.



QUICK RESULTS

Online Prelims

• Daniel Omielanczuk def. Nandor Guelmino via TKO (Punches, Round 3, 3:18)
• Alex Cacares def. Roland Delorme via Split Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)
• Michel Prazeres def. Jesse Ronson via Split Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)
• John Makdessi def. Renee Forte via TKO (Punches, Round 1, 2:01)

Prelims

• Mitch Gagnon def. Dustin Kimura via Submission (Guillotine Choke, Round 1, 4:01)
• Stephen Thomson def. Chris Clements via TKO (Punches, Round 2, 1:27)
• Wilson Reis def. Ivan Menjivar via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Myles Jury def. Mike Ricci via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Main Card

• Khabib Nurmagomedov def. Pat Healy via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
• Francis Carmont def. Costa Philippou via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)
• Brendan Schaub def. Matt Mitrione via Submission (d’Arce Choke, Round 1, 4:06)
• Renan Barao def. Eddie Wineland via TKO (Spinning back-kick, 0:35, Round 2)
• Jon Jones def. Alexander Gustafsson via Unanimous Decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46)

QUICK FIX: Preliminary Action

• Daniel Omielanczuk kicked off the night with an insane knockout in the third round to defeat Nandor Guelmino. The Pole dropped Guelmino right down to the ground with a ferocious left hand. 
• It was pretty much a scramble-fest in the second bout of the night. Although ending in a split decision, there was some scrappy stuff with Alex Caceres defeating Roland Delorme.
• A little too late for Jesse Ronsen who fell short via Split Decision as he was defeated by  Michael Prazeres. Ronsen only got going in the late moments.
• And to cap off the online prelims, John Makdessi got the knockout victory two minutes into Round 1 to put away Renee Forte.
• Opening the televised prelims, Mitch Gagnon made quick work of Dustin Kimura with a guillotine choke to submit the Hawaiian just four minutes into Round 1. 
• Stephen Thomson demonstrated his top striking ability with a vicious knockout to Chris Clements. Finally we get to see the strikes at their best.
• In the penultimate preliminary bout, bantamweights Wilson Reis and Ivan Menjivar fought in a somewhat lackluster fight. Reis tipped it with the Unanimous Decision victory.
• Closing off the preliminaries, Myles Jury defeated Mike Ricci by Split Decision. Far from an entertaining bout, but the main card was moments away…

MAIN CARD

Pat Healy vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov
Opening the main card was the lightweights, as Pat Healy battled the up-and-coming Khabib Nurmagomedov. The fight went the three-round distance, beating Healy convincingly to win the bout. Khabib Nurmagomedov was able to manhandle Healy at times, with some emphatic slams and takedowns crashing to the canvas. There was no better illustration of how the fight went than with the Russian dominating on top as the fight came to an end with the horn. Call him opportunistic, as he called for a title shot in his interview with Joe Rogan after the bout.

Costa Philippou vs. Francis Carmont
It was probably the most one-sided fight of the card (at that point) when Francis Carmont and Costa Philippou took to the Octagon where one streak would end. And we soon knew who would continue their win streak, as Francis Carmont just outpowered Philippou, taking him to the ground and exhausting him early on with the ground and pound. Around 75% of the whole fight was spent with Carmont on top position, aggressively depicting Philippou – who had no answer. Phillipou’s undefeated streak came to an end in a really frustrating way. Carmont showed his power throughout, effortlessly taking down Philippou. Just dominant, that’s all. 

Brendan Schaub vs. Matt Mitrione
Heavyweights Brendan Schaub and Matt Mitrione looked to settle their rivlary within the confines of the Octagon. Both men initially were in search of the knockout, although there was a drastic change in pace after. Schaub then landed a combination before the takedown, managing to get in a tight d’Arce choke. Mitrione signalolled a thumbs up to the referee at first, but Schaub had it so tight that MItrione was out unconscious. Superb submission.

Renan Barao vs. Eddie Wineland (UFC Interim Bantamweight Championship)
In one of two title bouts on the night, Renan Barao defended his Interim Bantamweight Championship against Eddie Wineland. Wineland looked to be edging the first round, landing the more strikes and keeping Barao restricted. However, Barao got into it in the latter stages, and picked up where he left off. Just thirty-five seconds into Round 2, Renan Barao knocked out Wineland with a spinning back-kick to the face. Eddie Wineland went down and it only took a few strikes for the referee to end the fight. Surely this sets up for Cruz vs. Barao now? What a knockout by Barao. 



Jon Jones vs. Alexander Gustaffson (UFC Light Heavyweight Championship)

In the main event, Jon Jones put his Light Heavyweight Championship on the line against Alexander Gustaffson. The challenger was off to a great start as he cut just above Jones’ eye and then later in the round got the takedown on Jones for the first time in his UFC career. In the second, it was more entertaining stuff, Gustaffson caught the kicks and defended Jones’ takedown. Two great rounds got things underway, with Gustaffson showing he was well in the fight. 

Jones landed his shots, too.

In Round 3, Jon Jones was throwing some good kicks and had Gustaffson breathing heavily after kicks to the body. Gustaffson and Jones continued to throw shots at each other in an entertaining battle. With two swollen eyes, a big cut and Gustaffson looking confident, it looked like Gustaffson had the lead on the scorecards as we approached the Championship rounds.

Then came Round 4, and what an epic round it was. Absolutely incredible stuff! Jones hit Gustaffson with some nasty elbows, but the Mauler continued to eat shots and powered forward! Round 5, the guys went at it. Exhausted, but they fought right until the end. What an epic fight.

Jon Jones retained his title on the judges scorecard. But what an amazing fight.

Image Courtesy: TheSudburyStar

THE BREAKDOWN

RISING UP
John Makdessi’s quick knockout off Renee Forte should definitely get him on the television broadcasts from now on.

FINISHING STARTS
The first six bouts of the night contained four finishes. But what about the other two bouts on the undercard? Well that leads to the next point…

PENULTIMATE AND FINAL PRELIMS DISSAPOINT
Billed to be the best fights on the undercard, Ivan Menjivar vs. Wilson Reis and Myles Jury vs. Mike Ricci seemed to be underwhelming. Expected better, but with the main card in sight, things were not all bad..

VETERAN DEFEATED, TITLE HOPES IN SIGHT
Khabib Nurmagedov defeated the veteran Pat “Bam Bam” Healy to open the main card. It was by far a convincing win to make his mark on the division, and already has title hopes in his sights. We’ll have to wait and see for that one.

STAT OF DOMINATION
12 minutes and five seconds. That’s how long Francis Carmont was on top position for the duration of the fifteen minute bout. No further description needed.`

CARMONT’S DOMINATION, PHILLIPOU’S FRUSTRATION
Costa Phillipou was just exhausted and frustrated ever since the halfway point of the first round. He really had no answer from Carmont’s aggressive onslaught and his lack of communication with his corner showed it all.

OUT COLD
It has been some time since a fighter has been put to sleep from a submission, but tonight, Brendan Schaub achieved this against Matt Mitrione.

TITLE UNFICATION BOUT SET? 
Renan Barao defended his title in emphatic fashion with a spinning back-kick knockout to the face. Dana White said earlier in the night that Dominick Cruz would fight the winner for unification of the belt, so are we set for Cruz vs. Barao.

FIRST SPINNING BACK-KICK TO THE FACE KO
Renan Barao’s spinning back-kick surely was knockout of the night. It was the first ever spinning back-kick knockout to the face in the UFC.

JONES, GUSTAFSSON PUSHED TO LIMIT
Jones and Gustafsson gave it their all in this epic fight. Alexander Gustaffson just ate shots, and Jones continued to work in an amazing fight.

TITLE FIGHTS SET?
These may be all but official, looking like they will happen in the next fights with these men. Renan Barao in a title unification bout against Dominick Cruz, and Jon Jones to battle Glover Teixeira?

Jon Jones joins Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Royce Gracie as the only fighters in UFC history to earn ten consecutive wins.
— UFC (@ufc) September 22, 2013

NIGHT AWARDS
Picking the bonuses for UFC 165 is easy tonight, these are the best by far. 

SUBMISSION OF THE NIGHT: Brendan Schaub
Brendan Schaub submits Matt Mitrione via d’Arce Choke

KNOCK-OUT OF THE NIGHT: Renan Barao
Renan Barao knocked out Eddie Wineland with a spinning back-kick KO

FIGHT OF THE NIGHT: Jones vs. Gustaffson
Just an amazing fight! That’s how title fights should be! Fight of the night? How about fight of the year.

Jones and Gustafsson gained enormous respect for each other. (Image Courtesy: USA TODAY Sports)

Another fantastic UFC PPV. Jon Jones and Alexander Gustaffson had an epic fight, Renan Barao retained his title and it was just a night of real good fights. 

Jon Jones now joins an elite class of fighters to have a six-fight and over title reign with his hard-fought win over Alexander Gustaffson.

An epic encounter ends with Jon Jones keeping his Light Heavyweight title reign alive. It was a battle for the ages in Toronto, Canada, and still Light Heavyweight Champion, Jon Jones.

 By Nisar Khan

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UFC FIGHT NIGHT 27: Carlos Condit Gets Redemption With Win Over Kampmann

By Nisar Khan

INDIANAPOLIS –  Carlos Condit prevailed in the main event of UFC Fight Night 27 when the UFC rocked Wednesday nights with some excellent fights.

BRAD TAVARES VS BUBBA MCDANIEL

Brad Tavarez and TUF 17’s Bubba McDaniel went the three-round distance in the opening fight of the main card. 

Bubba McDaniel found himself up against the odds when Round 3 progressed, as he was losing both rounds. A few accidental moments thwarted the flow of the fight, including accidental heabutts (although it did not stop the fight, Tavarez went down) and a painful-looking kick to the groin that left McDaniel hurt needing time to recover. Until the final bell, McDaniel looked hell-bent on getting the finish, but he was unable to do so. Although it looked like he won the third round, he did not win the bout and came off short. 

Good start to the main card, the crowd were pleased when they cheered and a valiant effort by both fighters. After three rounds, Brad Tavarez defeated Bubba McDaniel via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).

TAKEYA MIZUGAKI VS ERIK PEREZ
Erik Perez was in search for the biggest win of his career when he took to the Octagon to face Takeya Mizugaki in an enthralling fight.

Constant exchanges throughout the bout, with the Mexican prospect Mike Perez promising as he landed a flying knee in the first round, along with a takedown later on. Mizugaki was more effective on offense, and with less than half a round remaining, he almost finished the fight with the rear-naked choke – but Perez was able to escape somehow. Following a 
grueling fight, the two slowed it down against the fence.

The judges saw it as a Split Decision victory as Takeya Mizugaki defeated Erik Perez (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

COURT MCGEE VS ROBERT WHITTAKER
Another fantastic fight on the main card featured a close encounter between ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ veterans Court McGee and Robert Whittaker.

Opening things with a very close first round, Court McGee made a statement with the best shot of the round with a stealthy left hook that had Whittaker momentarily dazed. The next round saw McGee daze his opponent with another hook, this time followed by a takedown as he worked much quicker. The Aussie continued to strike but Whittaker continued to stay put, hitting back and not letting in, resulting in a very nip-and-tuck fight.

After 15 minutes of pulsating action, Court McGee was declared the winner as he defeated Robert Whittaker via Split Decision (27-30, 30-27, 29-28)

via USA TODAY Sports

KELVIN GASTELUM VS BRIAN MELANCON
Making a step down to Welterweight, the winner of TUF Season 17 Kelvin Gastelum looked to maintain his undefeated record against Brian Melacon.

Lasting just under half a round, Kelvin Gastelum managed to land two takedowns, throw a few shots (while also taking some from Melancon) before being on-point with an uppercut. Kelvin followed up emphatically with a rear-naked choke to win via Submission.

Kelvin Gastelum continues his roll, the step down to Welterweight picks him up a huge win over Brian Melancon, as the once-underdog makes an early mark in the UFC with a win defeating Brian Melacon via Submission at 2:26 of Round 1.
 
DONALD CERRONE VS RAFAEL DOS ANJOS
Donald Cerrone looked to get back on track with back-to-back wins as he stepped into the Octagon to battle Rafael dos Anjos.

Dos Anjos was pretty dominant throughout the fight, with Donald Cerrone not having much of a response to anything that was being landed. Cerrone upped the tempo in the latter moments of the fight but it was a little too late. 

With the distance gone to, it was down to the judges scorecard that determined Rafael Dos Anjos defeats Donald Cerrone via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

CARLOS CONDIT VS. MARTIN KAMPMANN
In the main event, Carlos Conditt evened the score with a victory over Martin Kampmann. In the first two rounds, Martin Kampmann exploited Condit’s weakness in wrestling, but in Round 3, things were different, as Condit took to another level with the striking, leaving Kampmann a bloodied mess. In the fourth round, a kick to the liver stunned Kampmann, allowing Condit to pick him apart and Herb Dean stopped the fight following knees and punches. Huge win for Condit.

 
THE BREAKDOWN

TUF CONTESTANTS SHINE:
The main card of UFC Fight Night 27 featured numerous fighters who came from the UFC’s reality series, The Ultimate Fighter. These included Court McGee and Kelvin Gastelum.

VETERAN THWARTS PROSPECT: 
UFC experience was in the hands of Mizugaki as he defeated Mexican prospect Erik Perez. Had Perez won, he would have been catapulted to new heights, but this was thwarted by Mizugaki’s superb fight. 

KELVIN GASTELUM: UNDERDOG TO ULTIMATE
Kelvin Gastelum won the latest series of The Ultimate Fighter, and from being the underdog to getting numerous finishes, another win as he steps down to Welterweight does wonders for his career at only 21-years of age.

DONALD CERRONE: LITTLE TOO LATE
Content..

BUBBA MCDANIEL: EFFORT IN VEIN
Opening the main card was Bubba McDaniel vs. Brad Tavarez. McDaniel attempted to get the finish right until the end, but his lack of work in the first two rounds cost him.

CONDIT’S REDEMPTION:
Carlos Condit bounced back from back-to-back losses with a great victory. On-point striking allowed him to deal with the wrestling threat and win the bout.

RESULTS 

• Brad Tavarez def. Bubba McDaniel via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Takeya Mizugaki def. Erik Perez via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• Court McGee def. Robert Whittaker via Split Decision (27-30, 30-27, 29-28)
• Kelvin Gastelum def. Brian Melancon via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke, 2:26 of Round One)
• Rafael dos Anjos defeats Donald Cerrone via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Carlos Condit def. Martin Kampmann via TKO

Carlos Condit finally gets redemption, after defeating Kampmann and coming back to win after consecutive losses. Five great fights on the main card as the UFC makes Wednesday nights exciting again.

 By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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