It was a bitter rivalry that saw some insults and harsh words hurled at one another. It was a battle of prospect and legend. Simply, it was Rory MacDonald vs. B.J. Penn.
When it was all said and done, MacDonald walked away with a clear-cut unanimous decision.
What we’ll remember about this fight
The size difference. It wasn’t a barn burner of a fight, nor was it a snoozer. However, the fight itself wasn’t anything to write home about. It looked like MacDonald was two weight classes above Penn. Penn definitely needs to move back down to 155 to be successful.
What we learned about Rory MacDonald
Rory MacDonald is a beast and rapidly evolving into a great fighter. I thought Penn’s boxing would be better than MacDonald’s standup, but that was not the case. MacDonald will be a champion if Georges St. Pierre drops the title at some point.
What we learned about B.J. Penn
He needs to fight at 155. Rory MacDonald made him look like a baby in this fight. BJ is as tough as they come, but lightweight is definitely the weight class to fight at.
What’s next for Penn
Any fight at lightweight. Seriously, no specific fighter. Just anybody at lightweight.
What’s next for MacDonald
Johny Hendricks. He wants GSP, but Rory would be a better opponent. The winner should get a title shot, but Rory won’t fight GSP.
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