In the highly anticipated fight for the UFC lightweight championship, fellow Brazilians Rua and Machida went the full five rounds. All three judges scored the fight three rounds for two in favor of the reigning champion Lyoto. However, the fans were far from in agreement and as UFC President Dana White wrapped the belt around the Dragon, the place erupted in boos. Such a staggering show of support for the challenger proves once again how fights remain controversial and that by leaving it in the judges hands a fighter places himself at the risk of dodgy discretion.
Shogun’s Performance
Despite a lackluster beginning in the UFC, Shogun demonstrated that he is still a force to be reckoned with and that his glory days are not yet over. His game plan seemed to cut off Lyoto’s strength by inflicting huge, damaging muay thai blows to the legs. As was plain to see, Shogun’s low kicks took the spring out of Lyoto’s step and had him both retreating and protecting himself. When his style is so dependent on leaping into quick exchanges, Shogun’s strategy was working. This was ever so clear in the clinches, where Shogun’s heavy knees struck Lyoto’s thighs with a painful intensity. Close-ups of the Dragon’s legs between rounds showed red bruising. By the last round it was clear that Machida was growing more hesitant and changing stances in order to protect himself. While the Dragon did have moments of good exchanges, as well as a sobering use of his knees on Rua, he seemed more reluctant than he has in other fights.
Fight Style
One reason why Mauricio Rua arguably should have won the fight is his pure aggressiveness. To the audience, it seemed he inflicted more damage, was cutting Machida off more and putting him on the back foot. Yet we know that Machida is more dangerous as a counter-striker. Should the judges not have been used to Machida's back step and elusive game I daresay we would have a different outcome. That we now expect 'the Dragon' to be stepping backwards probably played a role in the outcome. However, we may ask was he stepping back due to tactic or fear.
Shogun's Response
"My corner was telling me I won the fight. I feel like I won this fight but a fight is a fight. What can I do?," said a disappointed Shogun after the fight.
End of the Dragon?
No matter how you read the outcome, fans are not sure that it was a decisive victory. To be a true champion you have to defend your belt. The Dragon has done that, but there now seems to be a weakness in his scales. Bring on the re-match.
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