The main card of UFC on Fuel in China kicked off in the bantamweight division, as Japan’s Takeya Mizugaki took on American Jeff Hougland. Mizugaki would earn a unanimous decision (30-25, 30-27, 30-27) in impressive fashion.
Here’s what we learned from the bout.
What We’ll Remember About This Fight
Mizugaki‘s dominance in every aspect of the fight. He used great takedowns, takedown defense and ground-and-pound, which complimented his striking on the feet. We will remember a complete domination.
What We Learned About Jeff Hougland
Hougland is a tough dude for absorbing that much punishment, but he may not be UFC caliber. He has a good-looking submission game, but he was out-grappled by the underrated top game of Mizugaki. He needs to go back to the drawing board and work on his striking.
What We Learned About Takeya Mizugaki
Mizugaki is still a top bantamweight in the world. He has not really made his impact on the UFC yet, but after this fight, the 135-lb division should take notice. Mizugaki is well-rounded and a tough matchup for any opponent.
What’s Next for Hougland
I would assume that Hougland gets his walking papers after this fight, as he has dropped two straight. If he gets another shot, give him another recent loser in Vaughan Lee and have them fight for their spot on the roster.
What’s Next for Mizugaki
Raphael Assuncao is on the rise at 135 and will need a stiff test. Mizugaki provides that test and in exchange has his all-around game further tested.
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