The UFC made a conscious effort to make UFC 175 the highlight of Fourth of July weekend and they arguably put their two most well-known American fighters in the co-main events… And they delivered.
Ronda Rousey was the first of the two champions that needed to defend their title. Of course she came to the ring with “Bad Reputation” blaring and that mean mug on her face. Truthfully Ronda wins fights before she ever steps in the octagon; she has that 90’s Mike Tyson effect.
Ronda needed only 16 seconds to dismantle Alexis Davis. A right jab opened up a knee, which led to a judo flip takedown and ensuing melee of ground-n-pound punches. Davis was so lost in the cage that she hugged the referee’s leg for nearly a minute after the fight was stopped.
Ronda was asked if she’d consider fighting on 26 days notice at UFC 176 in LA and she said she’d talk to her trainers about it and if they gave the okay she’d be all for it. Now that is a champion.
In the second main event champion Chris Weidman had the hopes of the nation on his back and that’s exactly how the ‘All-American’ likes it. Weidman still had a lot to prove to the doubters that say he simply got lucky in his two championship fights against Anderson Silva. Weidman needed this victory to cement himself as a great champion and to officially take his spot amongst the world’s elite fighters.
Weidman dictated this fight from the open bell. He dominated Machida in all phases of MMA and he was far superior to the Brazilian on the ground. Weidman’s wrestling skills were on full display during the middle rounds; taking down Machida 3 times in rounds 2 & 3. For the first time Weidman’s cardio was tested and he faded greatly after the 3rd round. Machida had him nearly finished several times but the champ survived.
Machida became a bit more aggressive in the championship rounds but it was simply too late to stop the momentum of the champion. Weidman gained a second wind half way through the final round and hit Machida with a few blows that nearly rocked the Brazilian. The fight came down to the final seconds with Lyoto nearly knocking Weidman out again but the champion merely shrugged him off and asked for more.
Chris clearly proved himself as a capable champion tonight and never again will he be doubted as a fighter.
Other UFC 175 Fight Results:
- Matt Mitrione vs. Stefan Struve – Cancelled
- Uriah Hall vs. Thiago de Lima Santos – Hall Wins via Split Decision
- Marcus Brimage vs. Russell Doane – Doane Wins via Split Decision
- Alex Caceres vs. Urijah Faber – Faber Wins via Submission
- Ildemar Alcantara vs. Kenny Robertson – Robertson Wins via Unanimous Decision
- Chris Camozzi vs. Bruno Santos – Santos Wins via Split Decision
- Rob Font vs George Roop – Font Wins via KO