Matt Wiman came into this fight riding a significant amount of hype after coming off his submission win over submission specialist, Paul Sass, and for that reason, many of the prediction experts picked him to extend his win streak. However, Grant had other plans to derail the hype train, and prove that for good reason, he was the favorite to win the fight. What was thought to be one of the most closely contested fights on the card, ended up being the most devastating finish of the night, and TJ Grant’s UFC career.
In a performance that was so obviously robbed of knockout of the night honors, Grant displayed his newly found Muay Thai striking, incorporating a plethora of elbows and knees from the clinch. Wiman’s chin held up for some time, but eventually he was unable to take anymore punishment, as he crumbled under the vicious strikes of Grant that lead up to the inevitable knockout.
His improved Muay Thai makes him one of the most well rounded fighters in the division, as his wrestling and submissions are outstanding. It’s difficult to fathom a fighter who ranks outside of the top ten that will be able to make for a competitive fight if matched against Grant. Now riding a four fight win streak, Grant is due for a bout with a top ten lightweight for a chance to prove that he is among the division’s elite.
There are several potential opponents that would make excellent fights, such as Joe Lauzon, Nate Diaz, or Donald Cerrone, but for the most intriguing and potentially exciting fight, I have to suggest Jim Miller. Both Grant and Miller aren’t afraid to stand toe to toe and throw punches, but also have exceptional grappling skills. This bout has fight of the night written all over it.
Whether or not he fights Miller, Cerrone, or any top ten contender, Grant will look to showcase his well rounded skills against any opponent the UFC puts in front of him in a diehard attempt to pursue a title fight.
– Ryan “Fight Freek” Poli
@FightFreek