Last night, the UFC delivered an exciting night filled with great MMA bouts. The MMA world witnessed knockouts, technical knockouts, submissions, and upset victories as well. Along with that, we now know that Mickey Gall will be Phil Brooks' (CM Punk) first opponent in the UFC. Below are the fighters who impressed me last night. Enjoy!
Diego Rivas
In the first bout of the preliminary card, Deigo Rivas fought against Noad Lahat. Lahat dominated the first round by being the busier fighter: landing takedowns, pushing the pace, and controlling the round on the ground. Then, early into the second round, Deigo Rivas landed a well timed flying knee which knockout Lahat at the twenty-three seconds mark. With that win, Rivas made a huge statement in the UFC Flyweight division.
Derrick Lewis
Heavyweight MMA fighter, Derrick Lewis, welcomed Damian Grabowski who made UFC debut last night. Derrick Lewis finished the bout in the first round at the two minutes and seventeen second mark. In this bout, Lewis showed the MMA world again his incredible strength, takedown skills, and knockout ability. I can't wait to see who will be Lewis' next opponent in the UFC.
Mike Pyle
Welterweight veteran, Mike Pyle reminded everyone who was watching this event last night that he is still the real deal, and can hang with the young fighters. He beat a talented opponent, Sean Spencer, late into the bout. He showcased his impressive standup and clinch skills.
Ovince Saint Preux
Haitian MMA fighter, Ovince Saint Preux injured his foot early in the first round, but he didn't let that stop him. Saint Preux kept pushing the pace, and landed huge shots to his opponent. What I found impressive was that Saint Preux was the busier fighter throughout the entire fight by landing takedowns, punches, and pressing his opponent against the cage, despite the first round injury.
Stephen Thompson
Prior to the main event bout between Stephen Thompson and Johny Hendricks, I was rooting for Thompson. I was always impress with Thompson's kickboxing background, but I was still a bit skeptical to see how he match up with Johny Hendricks. Stephen Thompson shocked the MMA world by knocking out Hendricks in the first round. The welterweight division is a tough division filled with talented fighters. With a huge win like this over a top competitor, I wonder what's next for Stephen Thompson.
Fight On!
