Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Michael Johnson and Steve Ray faced each other in a Lightweight clash today (Sat., Oct. 18, 2019) at UFC Fight Night 162, which took place inside Singapore Indoor Arena in Kallang, Singapore. Following a back-and-forth fight, Ray was awarded the close decision.
Hard jab from Johnson scored early in the round, and he followed it up with a low kick. First takedown attempt from Ray was denied. Low kick from Ray partially landed. Johnson connected with a good left hand. Ray scored a nice left hook. Johnson jabbed actively, including to the body. Ray answered a left hand with a better counter combination, landing two punches. Johnson returned the favor moments later with a quick combo of counter hooks. Johnson’s speed advantage was apparent, and the jab and inside low kick continued to land at a decent clip for him. Ray connected on a low kick, ate a left hand.
Johnson opened the second with a good jab to the nose. Once more, Ray traded a low kick for a cross. Johnson stuck the jab into the chest a couple times with good success. Good left hand connected for Ray, and a hard low kick moments later. One more left hand for Ray, and the two began trading more actively. Johnson staggered his foe with a good left. Johnson stuffed a shot easily. Hook-cross counter landed hard for Johnson, but Ray answered back with a heavy blow. Crisp left hand landed once more for “The Menace.” 2-1 connected hard for Johnson. Johnson surprised with a quick spin kick to the body.
Ray scored a good low kick to begin the third. Johnson set up a hard overhand with a right body shot. Double jab worked for Johnson. Johnson scored a huge counter left, but Ray absorbed it without issue. Ray looked for the takedown, but it just wasn’t there, and Johnson slammed home another overhand. However, Ray did knock his foe out of stance with a low kick. Suddenly, Ray scored a takedown! From the turtle position, Ray secured wrist control and landed some hard punches. Johnson tried to stand, but Ray took his back in the process. With a minute remaining, Ray nearly flattened his foe out, releasing a torrent of punches. It was a terrible position, but Johnson survived, ultimately scrambling enough to avoid the stoppage.
Ray fought hard to battle back into this fight, but the bigger story here is Johnson’s inability to complete a 15 minute fight without encountering moments of disaster. Johnson seemed in complete control, then he was nearly finished 30 seconds later. It’s bizarre!
Result: Stevie Ray defeats Michael Johnson via majority decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)
For complete UFC Fight Night 162: “Maia vs. Askren” results and play-by-play, click HERE!