Heading into UFC 180’s main event between Fabricio Werdum and Mark Hunt, the smart money was certainly on the Brazilian. “Vai Cavalo” wasn’t just physically and mentally more prepared, he also presented significant matchup issues for the Kiwi.
How the fight actually unfolded was a little surprising, though. Despite the knockout, Werdum wasn’t as competitive on the feet as some had anticipated. He looked hesitant from the opening bell, and each right hand from Hunt only reinforced his hesitance.
Even when the fight went to the floor, Werdum didn’t get an awful lot done with his ordinarily potent guard. In fairness, Hunt did a surprisingly good job of keeping the Brazilian pinned against the cage, limiting his offensive options.
When Werdum eventually landed the knee that signaled the beginning of the end of Hunt’s interim title bid, it’s fair to say that it was against the run of play.
“Outclassed” is too strong a word for what happened prior to the knee, but Hunt was winning the fight, and it wasn’t particularly close. This should be cause for concern for anyone who believed Werdum had a realistic shot against Cain Velasquez.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the immediate options for the UFC’s new interim heavyweight champion.