Nothing wakes you up like a swift kick in the cup. Early on in the first round Anthony Pettis mistakenly landed an inside leg kick on the testicles. Stephens took a few moments and returned to the fight,
Showtime attempted a Capoeira style kick at the end of the first round. It was pretty much the highlight of a very mild opening round.
Pettis was able to control Stephens on the ground in the second round. He badly bloodied the nose of Stephens with a diving punch while Stephens was on the ground. Pettis was clearly the better conditioned fighter as he thoroughly out worked Stephens. I
In the final round, Pettis fought off of his back. He showed himself a much more versatile and well rounded fighter. His technique and athleticism was superior to Stephens and that was the difference.
At the conclusion of the fight, Stephens raised his hands but surely he knew he was outclassed tonight.
I am excited to see who is next for Pettis as I think he has the rare combination of flair and great ability. The judges created some ridiculous dram with a split decision, but it was as unanimous in my opinion.
Of all the up and comers, Anthony Pettis is far and away the best fighter thus far.