UFC 144 in in the books.
It was definitely one of the best events I've seen from top to bottom. The major gripe with me is that I had to be at work at 6:30 A.M after going to sleep at about 1:30 A.M. Needless to say, my day at work wasn't one of the more energetic days I've had. Four hours is a long time to watch any event, but thankfully a majority of the fighters brought their A-game which made for a very good watch. All I know is that my bar tab would've been a catastrophe If I'd actually decided to go out and sit through that whole event with a unlimited source of beer and wings at my grasp.
On another note,I only predicted 4 fights in my previous blog, which 3 of them were choose correctly. I know right? Lucky me. Maybe not the exact finish, but the winner was still the same. The only one that was incorrect was Edgar/Henderson. I'm not too upset about it though as it was a close damn fight. Let's get it started, okay?
- Make sure you follow me on Twitter @MMAManiac2 to drop me a line.
::::::::WARNING:::::: SPOILERS AHEAD
UFC 144 Quick Review
Anthony Pettis Vs. Joe Lauzon
Ever since the infamous “kick” Pettis fans have been looking for his next highlight reel finish and were treated to a pretty devastating kick that finished off Lauzon late in round 1. The fight started off with Lauzon looking like the stronger competitor, but he got caught and I'm sure he's feeling the effects of that humdinger for a few days after. Looks as if Pettis will be fighting Benson again this summer. Good luck!
My Prediction: Pettis Via Decision
Actual Result:Pettis Via KO
Entertainment Rating:8/10
Yushin Okami Vs Tim Boetsch
Okami was so close to winning this fight, but was unable to avoid the punching power of Boetsch in the last couple of minutes. Okami should be able to rebound just fine. In Boetch's credit it was a hell of a comeback and it'll be interesting to see if he can build off of it and continue winning. However, I just don't see it. Sue me.
My Prediction:None
Winner: Tim Boetsch
Entertainment Rating:7/10
Jake Shields Vs. Yoshihiro Akiyama
Akiyama looked damned good Saturday and hopefully this in no way knocks him further down the ladder. He gives 110% every time I've seen him fight and stuffed just about all of Jake Shields offensive attacks until the ending. Yeah, Shields doesn't look quiet as comfortable in the cage since leaving Strikeforce. Although, you can blame his last loss on the untimely death of his father. The fact that he showed up for that fight is a win.
My Prediction:Shields Via Submission
Actual Result: Shields Via Decision
Entertainment Rating:7/10
Cheick Kongo vs. Mark Hunt
Well, look you Mark Hunt. No really. Congratulations at finding success at this point in your career. There's nothing I like seeing more than a fighter improving after about 6 straight losses against worthy competition. Will he be champion again? Probably not. Who would've though he'd be back in UFC piecing together wins? Anything is possible!This was the upset of the night. Kongo is just..... Kongo to me. I don't love nor hate the guy. He's just....... There.
My Prediction:None
Result:Mark Hunt Via TKO
Entertainment Rating:7/10
Ryan Bader vs. Quinton Jackson
I wasn't the only one who'd thought that Jackson lost his desire to fight in the ring. Last night showed me that he still wants to fight, but is perfectly content being the same Rampage we've seen over the past few years and not just one collecting his paycheck. There really is no valid excuse for him missing weight by that much. Regardless, it was a still a nice watch and worthy addition. Bader should be just fine after getting beaten by Tito. Fluke. Argue that, please.
My Prediction:Bader Via Decision
Actual Result: Bader Via Decision
Entertainment Rating:7/10
Frankie Edgar vs. Ben Henderson
This is my personal FOTN. Edgar didn't lose an ounce of respect. That kick to the nose from Hendo was absolutely brutal and would've been the end for most fighters. It only slowed him down a bit and he continued to show that warrior spirit that has made him the champion . You can tell he really focused his training on catching just about all of Ben's kicks thrown his way. It was quite amazing actually. Hendo looked like a giant compared to Edgar. I'm definitely feeling a rematch between these do. We will see if Pettis takes the title from Hendo, which will possibly lead to a Edgar/Henderson 2 a sreported.
My Prediction: Edgar Via Decision
Actual Result: Henderson Via Decision
Entertaining:9/10
Overall Event Rating 8/10
This event is a much watch for just about any fan. Heck, I'd go even far enough to say you should own it once it is released on Blu Ray/DVD.If I were to pick one fight off of the card to watch, it'd be the main event. I'm still yet to own any UFC Blu Rays. Not really sure why that is. It's just so damn expensive and there are other things to buy I suppose. Give it a watch.
-I started this Blog on Sunday but wasn't able to finish it until today. I've got at least 3 topics on my mind and I've already started on another one, so keep your eyes peeled for the next entry. Been a fairly slow newsweek thus far, but I'll keep track of that also. Oh yeah, make sure you follow me on Twitter. Post me some feedback and I'll be sure to acknowledge you in my next blog. Kick this week in the ass! -@MMAManiac2.