Mike Pierce was the underdog going into his fight at UFC 143 against Josh Koscheck. Even as the underdog, Pierce almost pulled off the win, but lost by split decision.
Pierce gave Koscheck all he could handle, but Koscheck was able to take Pierce down on a few occasions and was likely the decider on the two scorecards favoring Koscheck.
Here is what we learned from the third fight on the pay-per-view portion of the card.
What we’ll remember about this fight:
Pierce put up a valiant effort. Unfortunately for Pierce, it wasn’t meant to be. Another highlight might be Koscheck giving the crowd the finger/business in the post-fight interview with Joe Rogan.
What we learned about Josh Koscheck:
Koscheck was getting pushed by Pierce, a fighter many considered a step below the former title challenger. Koscheck also needs to learn a new way to gauge his range. That open-handed stuff will eventually get him a point deduction. Oh, and nobody likes Koscheck.
What we learned about Mike Pierce:
Pierce is a tough guy and almost pulled off the split-decision victory. He looked good in his striking, but was overpowered by Koscheck’s wrestling, and that eventually cost him.
What’s next for Koscheck:
Koscheck will most likely get the loser of the Nick Diaz versus Carlos Condit.
What’s next for Pierce:
Pierce will go back to the middle of the division and I wouldn’t be surprised if they gave him another guy in the top 15 or top 10.
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com