UFC 164 featured some interesting matchups, but the co-main event between Frank Mir and Josh Barnett was one of the more intriguing battles coming into the night, and the former heavyweight champions did not disappoint.
With 1:53 remaining in the first round, Barnett was able to take down Mir and defeat him by technical knockout. It was a very quick fight, but we can break down exactly what happened in those few minutes.
Things got off to a fast start as both started swinging once the bell sounded. Mir landed some big shots on Barnett in the clinch, while Barnett attempted to get Mir to the ground.
As both fighters were fighting for position, Barnett did some damage with his knees. Mir tried to adjust, but then he got his hands caught up and absorbed some hard punches.
That’s when the big hit happened.
Barnett kept landing punches and then struck Mir with a direct knee to the head. Mir dropped to the floor, and the ref separated them, calling the fight. Barnett was able to land the perfect blow and end the fight just like that.
For Mir, his MMA career has been a bumpy road. It looked like he was done after dealing with a serious accident, but he was able to battle back to become a heavyweight contender. He then started dropping just outside of contention, and now he’s falling fast. He’s now lost three fights in a row after never losing two consecutive fights, and his career in the Octagon is starting to look like it’s coming to a close.
When it comes to Barnett, he’s still one of the more unpopular fighters in the UFC. Not only has he had a public feud with Dana White, he’s also failed several drug tests, including one that had him stripped of his title belt back at UFC 36.
While fans may not like the fighter, he delivered an entertaining fight with an incredible ending on a spot-on shot.
Barnett will continue to be an unpopular fighter, but he will be satisfied with the win, while Mir will be hoping to keep his fighting career alive.
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