Lyoto Machida earned the next shot at the UFC Light Heavyweight title shot by KO’ing Ryan Bader in the co-main event of the UFC on Fox 4 show. Machida knew he needed an impressive showing to warrant a rematch with Jones, and the knockout of Bader was just that.
Machida came in a little lighter on the scales, weighing in at 201 pounds, which brought up a number of questions about Machida’s training camp. Joe Rogan attempted to explain during the broadcast that this was due to Machida wanting to be as light on his feet as possible and this could be the reason.
Whatever his reasoning, Machida did everything perfect in his bout with Bader—an indicator he did everything right in his training camp as well.
He came in and showcased his usual karate style that appeared to give Bader trouble, and utilized his new strength to put Bader away with a single punch. The fight was brief but Machida showed us just a taste of what he is now capable of.