UFC 175 news features Chris "All-American" Weidman's victory over former light heavyweight champion Lyoto "The Dragon" Machida at a sold out crowd at the Mandalay Events Center, Saturday night.
In a report by MMA Fighting, the final judges' tally were 49-45, 48-47, and 49-46, all in favor of the "All-American", in a fight that happened just a day after the United States Independece Day celebration.
UFC 175 news also reveals that Chris Weidman was able to impose his game plan, despite the elusive style that Lyoto Machida usually brings to the table. While the first round began as a feeling out process for "The Dragon," the reigning champion was aggressive right from the get-go, with the hopes of imposing his will on his opponent.
The second round became more of a Chris Weidman show, as "All-American" continued to strictly follow his corner's advise, but this time, was able to score a takedown and use his strength to overpower Lyoto Machida, despite "The Dragon's" exceptional takedown defense from his sumo wrestling base.
The third and fourth rounds saw more of a back-and-forth battle, with Lyoto Machida getting more comfortable with his combinations. Chris Weidman, however, was able to land a straight punch that opened up a cut above "The Dragon's" right eye.
But not to be outdone, the Brazilian also landed his own share of significant strikes, as he was able to punish his American adversary with a series of kicks to the body that left Chris Weidman with a few bruises.
The fifth round featured more of Lyoto Machida's championship experience, considering that it was the first time Chris Weidman entered such depths of the fight. But unfortunately for him he was not able to do enough, despite his last-minute attacks with only seconds left in the round.
In the end, Chris Weidman lauded his opponent as well. He not only kept his title, but he was also able to keep his undefeated record, which is now 12-0.
"He's as good as I thought," Weidman said about the UFC 175 news during the post-fight interview. "He's quick, he's tricky in there."
Meanwhile, Lyoto Machida showed the same respect towards Chris Weidman, and was gracious in defeat. For "The Dragon" the fight should silence all those who question the "All-American's" legitimacy as a champion.
"The plan was to keep the fight standing," Machida said. "But he's a true champion, he deserves the title."
"I'll be back strong," he added.
