The big boys know how to put on a big show.
And at UFC 146, an event in which the main card was littered with intriguing heavyweight fights, the big boys once again came through in entertaining the fans.
Of the five heavyweight fights, one ended in a knockout, three ended in technical knockouts, and one ended in submission.
None went the distance.
For comparison’s sake, of the seven other fights on the night, three went to decision and only two ended with punches. Knockouts are what get the crowd off their feet, and that’s why the heavyweight division, despite the argument that the fights were too one-sided, continues to be the King of Excitement.
Let’s take a further look at the fights that made Joe Rogan giddiest.
Roy Nelson KO over Dave Herman
It only takes one.
Herman, who looked like Yao Ming compared to Nelson, was clearly trying to use his reach to his advantage.
And it worked brilliantly. For about 40 seconds.
Because Nelson just wound up and went for it with a big right hand. He landed it and absolutely floored Herman. And just like that it was over.
Some may not like fights that end that quickly, but it was the right decision by the referee to end it and there’s no question a punch like that is one of the most exciting things in sports.
Stefan Struve submits Lavar Johnson
It was clear what each man wanted to accomplish in this fight. Of Johnson’s 17 wins, 15 had come by knockout while Struve had won 16 of his 24 matches by submission.
If the fight went to the ground, Struve would win. If it stayed upright, Johnson would destroy the Dutchman.
Well, Struve got it to the ground, and from there it was over.
Unlike Nelson’s knockout, this one was fun to watch for two reasons. First, it was an incredibly smart fight by Struve, so that is refreshing to see. Second, the arm-bar he put on Johnson, for which he was awarded Submission of the Knight, was deadly.
Despite no knockout in this one, it was fun to see.
Cain Velasquez TKO over Antonio Silva
If seeing blood is your thing, then this was the fight for you.
Cain took Silva took the ground and it was over. Well, it was over after a couple of minutes of pure beating. Velasquez threw an array of huge punches and elbows.
The only break Silva got was when the fight was stopped so his cut could be checked out. When it was determined he could continue fighting, it was just another minute of pure domination.
This fight wasn’t close, but it was entertaining as all heck. And that’s all you can ask for from the big guys.
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