Dennis Siver and Nam Phan put on a solid featherweight scrap to get the FX portion of the UFC on FOX 5 prelims underway.
The bout entertained from beginning to end, though it was more of a mugging than a fight. Siver was able to employ a variety of punches, kicks and takedowns to impressive effect, and Phan was never really able to get going.
What we’ll remember about this fight:
In addition to being a very entertaining, albeit one-sided, contest, Siver‘s dismantling of Phan was his featherweight coming-out party.
The rest of the division has officially been put on notice.
What we learned about Phan:
Though tough as nails, Phan just can’t seem to break into that next level of competition. He took everything Siver could dish out, but mounted essentially no offense.
If anything, this match reaffirms Phan‘s durability and cements his place in the featherweight division’s lower-middle tier.
What we learned about Dennis Siver:
Siver has found a home at featherweight. He looks massive for a 145-er yet he held a clear speed and technical advantage over Phan.
The constant onslaught of varied strikes and takedowns the German executed from start to finish looked like the work of a serious featherweight contender.
Whether he’s ready for the likes of Jose Aldo is debatable, but if there is anything to take away from Siver‘s UFC on FOX 5 performance, it’s that he is a legitimate threat in the 155-pound weight class.
What’s next for Phan:
It’s possible he may be looking for work, but he may get another turn in the UFC. If so, Ridrigo Damm presents an interesting challenge.
What’s next for Siver:
A fight with the resurgent Cub Swanson would be fun. Or maybe Mike Brown.
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