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411’s UFC Fight Night 120 Report 11.11.17

November 12, 2017 | Posted by Robert Winfree

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC Fight Night 120. I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening, relaying all of the action to you good people just as I see it. This event feels like it would have been really great five years ago, but in 2017 a main card featuring Andrei Arlovski, Nate Marquardt, and Clay Guida vs. Joe Lauzon feels like forced nostalgia to me. The main event is fantastic though as former UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis takes on Dustin Poirier, the fight would mean a lot more if the title picture at lightweight weren’t such a mess but such is life at the moment. The next best fight on this card is the featured preliminary bout where top ten bantamweights Marlon Moraes and John Dodson do battle for divisional position.

This event comes to the world from the Ted Constant Convocation Center in Norfolk, Virginia, USA with Jon Anik and Paul Felder on commentary. Felder has been really good on commentary for Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series, I’m curious to see how he’ll do on the bigger stage here. In our update regarding the rules in effect, Virginia has not adopted the changes to the unified rules of MMA so anything other than the soles of your feet on the mat means your considered down and the language around scoring isn’t quite as clear.

I tried out an ask the audience feature last week, and no one rioted or boycotted so I figure I’ll try it again. My question for you all last week was about a specific fighter and their title reign, this week I’m curious as to your thoughts on the lightweight title picture. Thoughts on where you think it’s going, has McGregor’s reign been good or bad, that kind of thing. I’ve been struggling with the division lately, it’s the best in MMA but without a clear goal to be fighting towards it feels almost hollow to me as a fan and I would like to hear your thoughts on the subject. Please feel free to comment below, be respectful of differing opinions and if you feel compelled to disagree be respectful and avoid insults, please remember that insults and personal attacks detract from your points rather than adding to them.

Darren Stewart is 0-1 with 1 No Contest during his time in the UFC, he’s looking to get that all important first UFC win under his belt up a division at middleweight. Karl Roberson is undefeated coming into his UFC debut and as the old saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. The odds are with the Stewart at -230 to +180 for Roberson.

Middleweight Bout: Karl Roberson (5-0, 184.5 lbs.) vs. Darren Stewart (7-1 1 NC, 184 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Roberson is an inch taller but the reach is identical. Roberson fighting southpaw and they touch gloves to start things off. Stewart doing some spinning, not leading to much and Roberson lands a counter left. Stewart with more spinning techniques, these aren’t even close to really landing. Roberson lands a bit of a left, they trade power hands then clinch and Roberson lands some uppercuts before Stewart gets him on the fence. Roberson lands a couple of elbows, Stewart lands an elbow then tries for a double leg but he can’t get it. Beautiful lateral drop from Roberson who then gets the back in transition. Stewart is on a knee against the fence, Roberson has both hooks in and is punching to set up the choke. Roberson is under the chin, Stewart is hand fighting and Roberson doesn’t adjust his grip before it breaks. Roberson gets under the chin again but he’s missing a whole side of the neck, he just squeezes the forearm across the windpipe until Stewart taps.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Karl Roberson via Submission, rear naked choke, at 3:41 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Roberson for his work this evening. Felder in to interview Roberson. He says this feels natural and thinks this is the first of many UFC wins to come. He says he knew he had to be dangerous everywhere and he prepared for anything Stewart was going to bring.

Here’s the finish, not the prettiest choke ever as you’d like the forearm more on the side of the neck to cut off blood flow as opposed to across the throat. I like the way he adjusted a bit to get the tap, he changes the angle, increases the squeeze and gets the tap.

Jake Collier has been trading wins and losses while going 2-3 in the UFC, he most recently lost his light heavyweight debut. Collier is trying to get his UFC record back to the .500 mark and avoid the first losing streak of his career. Marcel Fortuna is 1-1 in the UFC, he’s coming off of a loss as well but is trying to rebound with a win here. Fortuna is the -250 favorite while Collier’s comeback sits at +195.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Jake Collier (10-4, 205.5 lbs.) vs. Marcel Fortuna (9-2, 205.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Collier is two inches taller and has four and a half inches of reach on Fortuna. Collier opens with an inside leg kick, then an outside leg kick as well. Fortuna is circling, digs a left to the body but Collier lands a counter left hook. These two clearly came to fight. Fortuna off balances Collier as he was kicking but he lets Collier back up. Collier has a combination blocked, both guys still looking for reads on the other. Collier lands a left body kick but he eats a left in response. Fortuna off balances Collier again as Collier was jumping in but he lets him stand again. Collier lands another leg kick, those have been his best weapon so far. Fortuna digs a left to the body. They exchange again, Collier lands a left that definitely got Fortuna’s attention. Fortuna tries a takedown, sloppy but he seems to have been after contact rather than drive, he gets the back standing and pushes Collier to the fence. They hand fight and Fortuna misses a right as they break. Collier lands another leg kick, Fortuna lands a spinning back fist but Collier just eats it. Collier lands a pretty good left that has Fortuna a little off balance but he recovers well. Fortuna slips a couple of punches then lands a right and a left. I’m a little surprised that neither man has adjusted much yet. They both miss, clinch up, break, and Fortuna lands a bit of a body kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Collier but a close round

ROUND TWO: They both miss a few punches to start the second, Collier is showing the jab a lot more already this round though. Fortuna lands a stiff jab, he’s not showing it as much but he’s putting more into it. Fortuna hits a knee tap and gets the back in transition, that was a smooth back take. Collier peels the hooks out as he stands and they separate again. Collier lands a spinning back kick to the body. Collier lands a leg kick, he seems to be in better condition. They both have punches blocked, Collier spins but misses and gets his back taken, Collier breaks free and they trade again. Collier’s forward pressure and general pace is starting to get to Fortuna a bit, he’s backing up straight a lot more and winging his punches. Collier misses another spin technique, Fortuna tries a double leg when they separate and he gets Collier down. Fortuna passes to mount almost instantly and he’s after an arm triangle choke. Collier has to fight through that one but he does get free. Collier tires to bridge, Fortuna tries an armbar but slips off and Collier is on top in Fortuna’s guard. Collier just kind of hangs out, lands an elbow just before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Collier but another close one, 20-18 Collier overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. They trade rights, Collier is still walking Fortuna down. Collier lands a combination that ends with a left head kick, Fortuna just eats it. Collier double jabs then lands a bit of a right. Fortuna tries a single leg, Collier limp legs free and separates. Collier lands a body kick then a bit of a knee. Fortuna tries a takedown, Collier reverses from his seat and he pulls back then makes Fortuna stand again. Collier lands a right hook. Collier lands a left to the body. Fortuna wobbles Collier with a counter right, Collier throws back to get him to back off. Fortuna lands a glancing head kick, Collier seems to be back though and he’s walking Fortuna down again. Collier lands a left body kick, Fortuna lands a knee and they trade a couple of punches. Fortuna partially blocks a high kick. They clinch up again, Collier lands a knee to the body before they separate. Collier lands an uppercut, Fortuna responds with a leg kick. Collier tries a takedown, Fortuna sprawls and holds a front headlock for the final few seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Collier, 30-27 Collier overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jake Collier via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)

I could see the second or maybe the third for Fortuna given that he rocked Collier in that one, no interview for Collier though.

Court McGee is 4-3 since dropping to welterweight but is coming off of a loss. McGee needs a win to avoid the second losing streak of his UFC tenure and to prove he’s still got something to offer the UFC. Sean Strickland just had a three fight winning streak snapped by Kamaru Usman, he’s trying to avoid the first losing streak of his professional career. The odds are solidly with Strickland at -300 to a +230 comeback for McGee.

Welterweight Bout: Court McGee (18-6, 170 lbs.) vs. Sean Strickland (18-2, 169.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Strickland is two inches taller and has half an inch of reach on McGee. McGee comes forward with a combination that’s mostly blocked. McGee lands a leg kick. Strickland starting to get his jab going. McGee lands a head kick but eats a right and Strickland gets on top and passes to half guard. McGee escapes to his feet and lands a leg kick. They’re both throwing at distance, range finding but they’re willing to throw. McGee lands a couple of body kicks. Strickland’s jab is looking sharp thus far, nice technique. McGee eats a left and lands a body kick. Strickland is circling well, McGee isn’t cutting him off but rather following a bit too much. McGee lands another couple of body kicks but the range is really eluding him when it comes to punches. A couple of leg kicks from McGee land. Another body kick from McGee lands. Strickland has been really working his lead hand, McGee is bleeding a bit from the bridge of the nose. Hard leg kick from McGee. Strickland lands a right. Stiff jab from Strickland lands. They trade again, Strickland is keeping McGee at distance with his jab as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Strickland

ROUND TWO: McGee coming forward to start the second, Strickland circling. McGee lands a right and a body kick. McGee after a double leg, switches to a single against the fence, bails on that to get the rear waist lock. McGee lands a few knees to the thigh. Strickland able to break the grip and separate without incident. McGee lands a leg kick then a bit of a body kick. Strickland lands a jab and avoids a right. Strickland lands a left and avoids a right. McGee tries a double leg, can’t finish it though and they break from the clinch. McGee misses a spinning back fist. McGee lands an inside leg kick. McGee lands a counter left but he’s still got to change the distance. McGee lands a couple of leg kicks and avoids a right. Strickland avoids a takedown and takes a bit of a right. McGee lands a bit of a body kick. McGee lands a right after a body kick, eats a counter right. McGee tries a double leg, Strickland sprawls and just misses a couple of punches as they break. McGee lands a bit of a body kick, Strickland returns it and they both miss punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 McGee, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: McGee jabs the body to get us going in the final round. McGee lands a head kick, Strickland just eats it. McGee lands a leg kick and a body shot. Strickland lands a jab but he’s getting out worked a bit. Strickland blocks a takedown attempt. McGee lands a left to the body then an overhand right. McGee still pressuring forward with kicks, tries a double leg that hits the fence and stalls out there. McGee has Strickland on the fence though and is after a high crotch. Strickland breaks free and they separate. Strickland lands a right and blocks a double leg attempt, he pushes McGee over and gets on top in the guard of McGee. Strickland lands a right and passes to side control. Strickland goes to half guard and lands a couple of short elbows. Strickland lands a few rights, he’s doing a good job of keeping McGee down. McGee bucks, gets to his knees and gets a rear waist lock as Strickland stands. McGee can’t get a suplex, he drops for a heel hook but can’t get it. McGee scrambles back up, Strickland elevates and gets him down then gets the back and is after the choke. McGee hand fights and breaks the grip, they trade punches from that position as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Strickland, 29-28 Strickland overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – DRAW Majority (30-27 Strickland, 29-29 x2)

I’m surprised by that, not complaining but surprised as round 1 could have been a 10-10 without much controversy. No interview as we’re headed to Fox Sports 1. Note about the scoring for that fight, apparently Bruce Buffer was given a bad score card so an update will be forthcoming.

OK, actual result to the McGee vs. Strickland fight was a unanimous decision win for Strickland.

Angela Hill has gone 1-1 since returning to the UFC but she’s coming off of a win over Ashley Yoder and is looking to enter the rankings with a strong performance here. Nina Ansaroff just broke a two fight losing streak and is trying to get her UFC record to an even 2-2 with a win here and begin a move up the rankings. The odds here are close but lean towards Hill at -190 against +155 for Ansaroff.

Strawweight Bout: Nina Ansaroff (7-5, 115 lbs.) vs. Angela Hill (7-3, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Ansaroff is two inches taller while Hill has a half inch of reach on her. Some circling to start, Hill probing the distance with jabs, Ansaroff lands a leg kick. They trade a few jabs. Hill moving forward but both women moving well. Hill lands a left hook, Ansaroff returns fire. Hill lands a bit of a right and she blocks a high kick. Hill lands a leg kick. Hill gets a rear waist lock and has Ansaroff on the fence. They break and Ansaroff has a combination mostly blocked. They trade some jabs, these two are throwing. Hill checks a leg kick and lands a couple of hard leg kicks of her own. Ansaroff lands a leg kick. Hill lands a leg kick. Another leg kick from Hill, and another. Hill catches a body kick and kicks the other leg out from under Ansaroff, Ansaroff back up instantly. Hill lands a left to the body. A bit of a shifting left hook from Hill lands. Ansaroff lands a body kick and eats a counter right. Ansaroff lands a jab. Hill lands a leg kick, and a body kick to follow it up. Ansaroff lands a leg kick. Hill lands a right then has a head kick partially blocked. Some leg kicks are traded again. Hill lands a right after a brief clinch. Hill lands another leg kick then a bit of a left hook to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Hill

ROUND TWO: Ansaroff lands a jab then a leg kick. They trade leg kicks again, Ansaroff lands a body kick as well. Hill lands a jab. Leg kick from Hill, Hill is bleeding from the nose now. Hill misses a right and Ansaroff avoids a clinch attempt. Ansaroff tries a takedown, Hill blocks it. Ansaroff fighting longer this round and she’s measuring Hill better. Ansaroff lands a counter right. Hill lands a left hook and takes a leg kick. Another leg kick from Hill. Hill lands a right but eats a front kick to the body and a right. Some more jabs go back and forth. Ansaroff lands a leg kick, Hill returns it. Hill lands a knee to the body and takes a clubbing right for her trouble. Ansaroff lands another leg kick. Hill lands a stiff knee to the body. Hill lands a counter right that stumbles Ansaroff a bit. Ansaroff with another couple of low leg kicks, that lead leg of Hill is compromised at this point. Ansaroff lands a bit of a spinning heel kick then they trade combinations. Hill landed a good right and Ansaroff is bleeding from the bridge of her nose. Hill lands a body kick and they trade uppercuts to close out the second. These two clearly came to throw down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ansaroff, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They trade rights to start the third. They get close and trade punches again, these two aren’t slowing down that much. Ansaroff lands a glancing spinning back kick to the body. Ansaroff lands a counter right then a leg kick. Hill lands an uppercut and they trade rights. Hill lands a right to the body. Ansaroff with another leg kick. Hill lands a counter right. Ansaroff lands a leg kick then a side kick to the body. Hill lands a bit of a left high kick. Ansaroff lands another leg kick but eats a couple of punches. Leg kick from Ansaroff lands. Ansaroff lands to the leg again but eats a right. Hill lands a bit of a left head kick. Hill lands a couple of rights but eats a leg kick. Hill starting to come forward and they’re trading again. Ansaroff lands a left body kick. Ansaroff lands a leg kick. Another leg kick from Ansaroff. Anaroff kicks Hill down but Hill regains her feet. Ansaroff lands another leg kick. Double jab then a right uppercut from Ansaroff, she’s just reading the motion of Hill well. Ansaroff lands a head kick as the last blow before time runs out.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ansaroff, 29-28 Ansaroff overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nina Ansaroff via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Good adjustments from Ansaroff after the first, she beat up Hill for the remaining ten minutes. Ansaroff on the mic. She puts over Hill as a tough opponent and she expected a lot of kicks, then thanks all the veterans out there. She requests someone in the top ten so she can “get on with this.”

Sage Northcutt (8-2) is 3-2 overall in the UFC, he’s coming off of a loss to Mickey Gall and is hoping a return to lightweight will breathe some life into his UFC run. Michel Quinones (8-2) lost his UFC debut when he was bested by Jared Gordon, he’s after his first UFC win at the expense of Northcutt. Northcutt is a slight favorite at -175 to +145 on Quinones.

Lightweight Bout: Sage Northcutt (8-2, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Michel Quinones (8-2, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Northcutt is two inches taller while Quinones has an inch and a half of reach on him, the big difference is age as Quinones is eleven years older than Northcutt. They touch gloves to get things going. Quinones lands a leg kick. Northcutt circling, both men showing the jab but not really committing to anything. Northcutt lands a counter right. Quinones lands a right. Quinones lands a leg kick but Northcutt lands a counter right. Northcutt lands a jab. Northcutt starting to press the action now. Quinones ducks under a wheel kick. Northcutt lands a slapping body kick. Quinones lands a leg kick but eats a couple of counters. They both land punches in close. Quinones lands a body kick and eats a bit of a counter right. Northcutt is bleeding from the nose a bit, both guys doing some stance switching to no real effect. Northcutt lands a jab then a side kick to the body. Quinones lands a leg kick but takes a counter combination from Northcutt. A bit of a leg kick from Quinones but he didn’t have a lot on it. Northcutt takes a side kick to the body but hits a relatively meaningless double leg just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Northcutt

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round, and Quinones lands a low leg kick. Northcutt is coming forward and lands a side kick to the body. Northcutt misses a couple of kicks. Northcutt lands a bit of a head kick but misses the follow up offense. Quinones lands a leg kick but he’s not following up on it. They both miss rights. Quinones lands a bit of a counter right, Nothcutt lands a leg kick. They trade lefts and Northcutt follows up with a head kick that’s mostly blocked. They both miss rights. Northcutt lands a bit of a right then a body kick. Quinones is slowing down a bit, that body work seems to be paying off. They trade punches in close but Quinones doesn’t seem to want to engage in the pocket but he’s getting lit up at distance. Northcutt lands an inside leg kick. Quinones lands a body kick but eats a counter uppercut. Northcutt hits a double leg into side control with twenty seconds left in the round. They just hang out on the mat until the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Northcutt, 20-18 Northcutt overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Northcutt lands a straight right, he’s still pushing the action. They clinch up then break off of a failed trip attempt. Northcutt lands a couple of jabs and a right. Northcutt lands a left body kick then a side kick that drops Quinones for a second. Quinones is totally befuddled. Northcutt lands a right to the body and they both fall short with follow up punches. Northcutt still pushing the pace and picking at Quinones. Northcutt hits a double leg but Quinones doesn’t let him establish position and they’re back up. Northcutt lands a counter one two, Quinones has no feel for the distance. Quinones lands a bit of a right but he eats a couple of counters. Quinones lands a right. Northcutt after a double leg, it stalls out on the fence. They break with a left hook from Northcutt, who then misses a cartwheel kick to close out the time.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Northcutt, 30-27 Nortchutt overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Sage Northcutt via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Good stuff from Northcutt, he developed a fair bit during his time off. He gets an interview, thanks the fans for coming out then says that you can overcome any difficulty if you keep hope up then quotes The Bible and tells everyone to keep the hope up and keep looking to the future. He says he feels great, thanks his coaches and the team at Team Alpha Male and he can’t wait to see what he’ll look like after six months or a year with them. Asked who he wants next he says he likes fighting frequently and hopes to have another one lined up soon.

Tatiana Suarez is undefeated and coming off of a win over Amanda Cooper to win their season of The Ultimate Fighter. Suarez is trying to move beyond the hype around her performance on the show and become a legitimate contender in the division. Viviane Pereira is also undefeated including two UFC appearances, she’s trying to take the wind out of Suarez’s sails while proving that she’s the prospect to watch at strawweight. Suarez is a significant -300 favorite to a +230 comeback on Pereira.

Strawweight Bout: Viviane Pereira (13-0, 114.5 lbs.) vs. Tatiana Suarez (4-0, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Suarez is four inches taller and has three inches of reach on Pereira. Suarez comes out southpaw and lands a leg kick. Suarez still showing that kick, Pereira looking to counter. They clinch up, Suarez lands a knee to the body before Pereira gets her on the fence and they separate without incident. Suarez bulls into another clinch and reaches for a takedown. Pereira has a standing guillotine, she’s really after it but Suarez seems to have it blocked and is after a single leg takedown. Suarez completes the takedown into side control and lands a right. Pereira trying for a triangle choke but she’s not at the right angle. Suarez lands a few blows then moves to the ride position as Pereira gets to her knees. Pereira rolls through and gets guard but Suarez passes to north-south almost immediately. Suarez moves to the ride position again, gets the back with one hook in then retains the ride as Pereira tries to roll through. Suarez gets both hooks in now, Pereira is hand fighting. They trade some punches, Pereira actually gets one of the hooks out. Suarez lands some rights, Pereir tries to roll through but gives up side control. Suarez has a really good transition game going. Suarez lands a few short blows as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Suarez

ROUND TWO: Suarez stalking forward again, and again lands a leg kick. Suarez tries a double leg, Pereira sprawls but doesn’t have a second defense as Suarez drives from her knees and gets a double leg into side control. Suarez trying to set up a north-south choke, Pereira is able to get half guard back. Suarez lands elbows to the body and head. Suarez back to side control, now knee on belly and into the full mount. Nice sequence from Suarez. Suarez postures up and lands some elbows as Pereira tries to get to the fence and bridge off of it. Pereira is able to buck Suarez out of the mount but Suarez is passing her guard like it’s not even there. Pereira trying to wall walk now, Suarez smothering her with knees to the body and elbows. Suarez lands some lefts then gets a front headlock and knees the body while Pereira wall walks. Suarez hits another single leg, Pereira tries to go inverted but Suarez smothers the attempt and lands some rights then gets her leg free. Suarez lands some hammer fists. Suarez lands some more punches from the guard. Suarez back to knee on belly and lands a left as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Suarez, 20-17 Suarez overall

ROUND THREE: Pereira really behind the proverbial 8 ball coming into the third. Suarez lands a couple of leg kicks, she’s circling and waiting to time a takedown with some commitment of weight from Pereira. Pereira lands a bit of a right. Suarez pushes into the clinch and lands a knee to the body then goes for a single leg and gets it against the fence. Suarez passes to side control, and to knee on belly yet again. Suarez is levels above Pereira on the mat. Pereira gets a loose half guard, and Suarez passes it and is now in north-south. Suarez lands an elbow. Pereira trying to wall walk, Suarez continuing to control her and land elbows to the thigh. Pereira to her knees, Suarez cradles her and rides her back to the mat. Suarez lands a knee to the body and moves to mount again. Suarez postures up and lands some blows. Pereira hip escapes and Suarez is in side control again. Suarez lands a couple of knees to the body. Pereira to her knees, Suarez has her back with one hook again. Suarez hand fighting while looking for the choke. Suarez has both hooks in now, Pereira is just trying to see the end of this round. Suarez goes for the armbar now, not nearly enough time left and Pereira defends from spider web position as time runs out.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Suarez, 30-25 Suarez overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Tatiana Suarez via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27 x2)

Surprised there weren’t more 10-8’s, even under the old scoring system. No interview for Suarez.

John Dodson is one of the top bantamweights in the UFC as well as a two time flyweight title challenger, his only loss since returning to bantamweight was a controversial decision to John Lineker and he’s coming off of a win over Eddie Wineland. Dodson is trying to move up the rankings and stake a claim to title eliminator bout. Marlon Moraes just had an absurd thirteen fight winning streak snapped when he lost a controversial decision to Raphael Assuncao. Moraes is also trying to move up the rankings and cement his status as one of the best bantamweights in the world. The odds are even here, -115 for each man.

Bantamweight Bout: #8 John Dodson (19-8, 135.5 lbs.) vs. #9 Marlon Moraes (18-5-1, 136 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Moraes is three inches taller and has an inch of reach on Dodson. Dodson fighting southpaw. A bit of circling from both men, Moraes lands an inside leg kick. Moraes lands a body kick and they trade lefts then Moraes misses a head kick. Moraes fades a couple of lefts and lands a right. Moraes lands an inside leg kick. Dodson lands a left to the body. Moraes misses a wheel kick. Spinning back kick to the body from Moraes lands. Dodson lands a left to the body but takes another inside leg kick. Dodson lands a bit of a left. Moraes lands a right, Dodson lands a left that drops Moraes for a second, when Dodson tries to pounce Moraes fires back and he disengages. Moraes still working kicks but he’s still trying to adjust to the speed of Dodson. Moraes lands another inside leg kick. Moraes lands a right, both men feinting a lot at each other. Dodson closes distance and takes a kick to the groin, we’ve got time for him after that one. That one hurt me, Dodson is fighting to avoid puking as he’s walking. The doctor is in to check on Dodson, Dodson is taking the time to recover but he’s upright and seems to be mostly back. Dodson is ready to continue and we’re back to fighting, Moraes apologies for the blow. Moraes lands a right in close that wobbled Dodson for a second. Moraes lands a body kick and a bit of a right. Dodson lands a bit of a left, his hand speed is absurd. Moraes lands another body kick. Moraes lands a right and a body kick. They trade punches, Dodson complains of an eye poke and we’ve got time. Replay confirms the eye poke, Dodson doesn’t want to see the doctor and they trade for the final ten seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dodson but could argue for Moraes

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. They trade in close, Moraes ducks a left and lands a left hook of his own. Dodson lands a knee to the body. Moraes is stalking forward, lands a right to the body. Moraes lands a couple of rights that hit flush, Dodson is backing up again now. Moraes lands a body kick. Moraes kicks the body again. Dodson lands a body kick of his own and he avoids a counter hook. Moraes lands a right, he’s looking really smooth. Dodson hits a knee tap and Moraes tries a heel hook, Dodson spins free and punches Moraes a couple of times as he regains his feet. Moraes lands a straight right then a bit of a head kick, Dodson gets a takedown off of it and Moraes tries a knee bar. Dodson spins free again, Moraes has him pressed into the fence now. They spin free without incident. Moraes lands an inside leg kick. Moraes lands a glancing wheel kick, then lands a left hook as Dodson had hopped into the air for some reason. Moraes lands another body kick, this time Dodson lands a straight left to counter. Dodson is able to avoid a head kick. Moraes tries a double leg, he’s got Dodson on the fence and he gets him down. Dodson sitting on the fence, he’s on a knee now and back up but Moraes picks an ankle and he’s down. Dodson back up and they both punch as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Moraes, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves aggressively for the final round. Moraes sniping, they trade left hooks but both guys have pretty good defensive posture. Moraes lands an inside leg kick and avoids the counters. Moraes lands a counter right after Dodson over reached on a left to the body. They trade lefts again. Moraes lands another inside leg kick. Moraes slips a bit and he avoids a right as Dodson tried to pounce on him. Moraes lands a right, that was a pretty good dart technique actually. Moraes lands a couple of jabs and circles away from Dodson’s aggression. Moraes kicks to the body again, there’s some visible damage to Dodson’s torso. Yet another body kick from Moraes. Dodson lands a body kick and a bit of a left to follow it up. Moraes lands a body kick then they trade lefts. Moraes misses an overhand right. Dodson lands a left hook, Moraes misses a wheel kick but goes for a double leg and gets Dodson on the fence. Moraes after the single leg now, and the ref separates them very quickly. Moraes fails a takedown, he sits for a guillotine, it’s pretty tight and Dodson actually taps just after the horn sounds, so no finish but that was tight.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Moraes, 29-28 Moraes overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marlon Moraes via split decision (27-30, 30-27 x2)

I can’t get behind 30-27 for either man, odd scores. Moraes on the mic now, pity the scoring was odd because the action was good. He says he believes he won all three rounds, he takes the mic and speaks English for the crowd. He puts over Dodson as a guy who beat Dillashaw, he says Dodson could have been champion, then calls out Jimmie Rivera for the 30th of December after Cruz has fallen out of that fight. He says they have history, then tells Sean Shelby to send him the contract. Passionate stuff from Moraes there at the end, and I’m down for that fight.

Here’s the call out from Moraes as well as some highlights from the fight. I got what I expected out of that, I wish they’d had five rounds though.

Joe Lauzon has been with the UFC since way back in 2006, he’s been trading wins and losses recently though. Lauzon is coming off of a loss to Stevie Ray and he’s hoping to get one back in the win column as the end of his career starts to close in on him. Clay Guida just snapped a two fight losing streak by returning to lightweight after a sting at featherweight. Guida is trying to extend that streak and prove he’s still got enough in the proverbial tank to be a fighter of note in the division. Guida is a slight -130 favorite against +110 for Lauzon.

Lightweight Bout: Clay Guida (33-17, 155 lbs.) vs. Joe Lauzon (27-13, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Lauzon is three inches taller and has an inch of reach on Guida. Guida bouncing and circling early, Lauzon probing with the jab. Guida lands a leg kick. Another leg kick from Guida lands. Guida lands a couple of hooks that drop Lauzon, he’s on top in the guard of Lauzon now. Guiada with hammer fists, he passes to half guard and lands elbows until the ref pulls him off.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Clay Guida via TKO, elbows, at 1:07 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club congratulates Mr. Guida on his first finish since 2011 and first TKO finish since 2008. Guida on the mic after that one, he puts over Lauzon and gets the crowd to cheer for the veterans of the world then thanks the fans for making it all possible. He felt good in there, then says this is his 25th time in the Octagon, he says he wants to end his career in the UFC and since that was the last fight on his contract he tells the fans that if they want to see him finish his career in the UFC they need to stand and cheer and get at UFC officials to let them know. Asked about the stoppage, it was a tad late for my taste, he puts over his coaches and thanks them, he still hasn’t knocked anyone out in his career so he’s still got something to shoot for and he closes by saying he’s having more fun now than when he started.

Here’s the finish, Guida looped that right behind the ear then just bulldozed his way to the finish.

The UFC confirms that Michael Bisping will step in against Kelvin Gastelum, I’m not sure I’m good with that given that Bisping took a lot of damage in the loss to GSP. They also confirm Holloway vs. Aldo 2 as the main event for UFC 218, I’m certainly down with that one as I enjoyed the heck out of their first fight.

Raphael Assuncao is one of the best bantamweights in the world, in fact his only loss at that weight is to TJ Dillashaw and he’s currently on a two fight winning streak. Assuncao is trying to position himself in the title mix given the current state of the division, and a win could get him his rubber match with Dillashaw. Matthew Lopez is on a two fight winning streak and is 2-1 in the UFC overall, he’s trying to really shake up the landscape of the division by taking out a longtime contender. Lopez missed weight for this fight, and while it’s his first offense adding a loss to that infraction isn’t a good look. Assuncao is the notable favorite at -370 while Lopez’s +280 has to tempt those who bet the long shots.

Bantamweight Bout: #4 Raphael Assuncao (25-5, 135.5 lbs.) vs. #13 Matthew Lopez (10-1, 138.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Lopez is an inch and a half taller as well has having two and a half inches of reach advantage, of course he also missed weight. They touch gloves, Lopez fighting southpaw. Assuncao lands a bit of a right. Assuncao lands a body kick, Lopez returns it. Assuncao with a hefty inside leg kick. Lopez lands a bit of a left to the body. Straight left lands for Lopez, he’s doing a good job of maximizing his reach. They both slip and miss counters but Assuncao lands a bit of a right. Another right lands for Assuncao. Lopez goes with a leg kick. Body shot form Lopez and they both just miss power punches. Assuncao lands a short left hook after blocking a half hearted takedown attempt. Assuncao lands another left as they exit a quick clinch. Assuncao is starting to push the action, they trade punches again. Assuncao is leaving his chin exposed during these exchanges, something to keep an eye on. They clinch up, Lopez gets a body lock takedown into the guard of Assuncao. Assuncao setting up attacks off of his back, Lopez stands and takes a knee to the head. Assuncao lands a couple of rights as the last blows of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Assuncao

ROUND TWO: And my computer locked up, causing me to lose basically all of my notes for the second round. Great. From what I remember Assuncao was finding his range on the feet and landing hard inside leg kicks that Lopez was reacting badly to, that’s all I’ve got to score the round on.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Assuncao, 20-18 Assuncao overall

ROUND THREE: Lopez’s inside leg is badly bruised up, and Assuncao lands a hard inside leg kick to start the third round. Lopez blocks a left hook then a high kick. They trade rights then Assuncao lands another inside leg kick that buckles Lopez for a second. Another inside leg kick from Assuncao. Lopez fires some punches that miss then he tries a takedown that Assuncao is able to stuff. One more inside leg kick from Assuncao, those hurt me just watching. Assuncao now with a jumping knee that’s blocked but he lands a combination of punches that ENDS Lopez.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Raphael Assuncao via KO, punch, at 1:50 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Assuncao for his work this evening. Assuncao on the mic after that, his first clean KO win ever. he says his only loss at bantamweight is to TJ Dillashaw and he wants his third fight with him. He jokes about missing the replay of the finish, then says he felt pretty good and puts over his brother for helping him get in shape and make weight then notes that his brother is deserving of a shot in the UFC.

Here’s the finish, Assuncao set up Lopez with those nasty inside leg kicks and that’s a solid right, the left before it was ugly but the right connected and ended the fight.

I’m also letting everyone know that my computer might be really unhappy with me, if things get weird it’s the machine and not me responsible for slow updates.

Nate Marquardt is a veteran of the sport, but he’s just 2-5 in his last seven bouts and is on a two fight losing streak with those losses coming to Sam Alvey and Vitor Belfort. Marquardt has to win here if he’s to preserve his spot on the roster. Cezar Ferreira is coming off of a loss but had a three fight winning streak going before that, he’s trying to avoid his second UFC losing streak while proving that Marquardt’s time has come and gone. The odds are with Ferreira, -280 against +230 for Marquardt.

Middleweight Bout: Cezar Ferreira (11-6, 185 lbs.) vs. Nate Marquardt (35-18-2, 185.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Ferreira is an inch taller and has a whopping four and a half inches of reach on Marquardt. Ferreira is fighting southpaw but will switch his stance. Feinting from both men, a lot of distance between them right now while they try to get a read on each other. Marquardt avoids a leg kick. Marquardt has a couple of punches blocked, then lands a right to the body. Ferreira lands a leg kick. Ferreira lands a straight left. They trade some leg kicks at distance, they’re just picking at each other hoping to provoke a bad response. Ferreira lands a counter left that staggers Marquardt for a second. Marquardt tries a takedown but Ferreira blocks it. Chopping low inside leg kick from Ferreira. Marquardt lands a left and presses forward until he eats a right. Ferreira lands a front kick to the body. Both men bleeding a bit, Ferreira from the bridge of the nose and Marquardt from around the right eyebrow. Ferreira lands a leg kick. Marquardt lands an outside leg kick. Marquardt lands a straight right. They stare away the final ten seconds or so.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ferreira

ROUND TWO: Ferreira circling a bit to start, both guys feinting and probing with leg kicks. The crowd is getting restless, there have been periods of inactivity here for sure. More sniping with leg kicks, neither guy wants to commit too much and make a fatal error. Marquardt tires a knee tap, Ferreira defends and they wind up clinched on the cage. Marquardt has a body lock but he’s struggling to do anything with it and they separate. Marquardt lands a counter right hook. Ferreira in on a single leg, it hits the fence and stalls out. Marquardt lands a hopping knee but Ferreira hits a takedown, Marquardt never lets him get position and they settle back in on the feet. Ferreira lands a bit of a head kick. Marquardt lands a left hook after falling short with a right. Ferreira lands a bit of a left. Ferreira has a spinning back fist blocked, Marquardt misses a head kick. Ferreira lands a low leg kick that tightens up the leg of Marquardt for a second or two. Inside leg kick from Ferreira, Marquardt returns it. Ferreira lands an overhand left then they split power hand punches. Ferreira lands a body kick after taking a right. Marquardt knocks Ferreira down for a second with a punch, Ferreira back up and they swing wildly in the pocket as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Marquardt based on the knockdown, 19-19 overall overall

ROUND THREE: They come in and grade right hooks, Ferreira then hits a double leg and lands in the guard of Marquardt. Ferreira pushes Marquardt into the fence and Marquardt closes his guard, he’s looking to stall this out. Ferreira works blows to the body and head. Marquardt looking to wall walk, he’s up to a knee against the fence and waits there, he’s very aware of the threat of knees. Ferreira holds a body lock as Maruqardt gets up, they scramble on a takedown from Ferreira but they wind up standing, Ferreira hits a big elevated slam and lands in side control. Ferreira lands a knee to the body. Some more body work from Ferreira. Marquardt tries to bridge, he gets to a hip but Ferreira is able to keep him there. Ferreira goes to north-south and lands to the body again. A few elbows to the head from Ferreira land. Marquardt able to roll to his knees and turtle, Ferreira threatens with a guillotine and Marquardt has to fall to his back, Ferreira sits for the guillotine and Marquardt gets free on top. Marquardt lands a couple of elbows, the last one rally opens a cut on the hairline of Ferreira just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ferreira, 29-28 Ferreira overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Cezar Ferreira via split decision (28-29, 29-28 x2)

I’m not complaining about the scoring, Ferreira gets a quick interview as the crowd boos. He tells Norfolk he loves them and puts over Marquardt and says he’s a fan then calls the fight an honor. He switches to Portuguese to call out Paulo Costa, says that Costa disrespected his family and he plans on teaching him some respect.

Junior Albini is riding an impressive ten fight winning streak including his UFC debut when he stopped Timothy Johnson in the first round. Albini gets a big name here, but if he can take out a former champion and known opponent he could be staring down an even bigger opportunity next time. Andrei Arlovski might be a former UFC heavyweight champion, but he’s also on a five fight losing streak and he was finished in four of them. Arlovski’s UFC run can’t afford another loss, it’s something of a miracle he’s still with them now. Albini is the favored party in this encounter at -325 to +250 for Arlovski.

Heavyweight Bout: #12 Junior Albini (14-2, 265.5 lbs.) vs. #13 Andrei Arlovski (25-15 1 NC, 244 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Some circling to start, a bit of feinting as well. Arlovski probing with the jab. They trade rights, Arlovski is a little wobbled. They keep clashing, Albini just avoids a wild right from Arlovski. Albini lands a body kick. Arlovski lands a bit of a right. Arlovski lands a right to the body then a left body kick. Albini lands a bit of a right but he’s still struggling with the movement of Arlovski’s upper body so far. They clinch up, Albini lands a knee to the body as he gets Arlovski on the fence. They trade some knees to the body and thigh then Arlovski spins free. Albini lands a bit of an overhand right. Albini is walking Arlovski down, lands a left then a couple of knees to the body. Albini lands a counter left hook then blocks a spinning back fist. They clinch up and Albini drives Arlovski into the fence again. They trade in close then break and miss wild punches. Albini lands a short left in close. Both guys are still missing the target a fair amount but they’re getting reads. Albini lands a counter left hook as the last meaningful blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Albini

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Albini still coming forward, lands a left elbow and avoid the counters. Arlovski lands a right to the body. Albini pushes Arlovski into the fence in a clinch. They trade some knees to the thigh, Arlovski can’t spin Albini though. Albini lands a knee to the body. The ref separates them after they stall out. Albini lands a bit of an inside leg kick, it clipped the groin of Arlovski but he just keeps coming. Albini gets a clinch and has Arlovski on the fence again. Albini with knees to the body and thigh, Arlovski is fading a bit. Arlovski able to push free after a bit. They trade jabs and land glancing rights. Arlovski misses some punches then lands a calf kick. They trade jabs again. Arlovski lands a bit of a spinning back kick. Arlovski lands a right to the body but takes a left hook counter. Arlovski lands a straight right. Albini lands a left hook but eats an uppercut. They both miss and the round comes to a close.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Arlovski, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Arlovski lands a right but eats a counter left. Albini still pressing forward, Arlovski circles away. Albini lands a stepping knee to the body and misses a left hook. Arlovski lands a short right uppercut. Arlovski lands a right but Albini just rolls with it. Albini lands a leg kick. Arlovski misses a right after taking a body kick. Bit of a left high kick from Arlovski. Albini needs to get things going, he’s being out worked by Arlovski. Albini lands another leg kick, Arlovski complains of an eye poke so we get time. Replay confirms the eye poke, Arlovski says he’s good to contine and we’re back to fighting. Arlovski lands a right to the body and tries some kicks but runs into a stiff jab then an elbow from Albini. Arlovski lands a jab. Albini lands a left hook. Albini lands a right and a left, Arlovski is backing up again. Arlovski lands a right uppercut and a left. Albini lands a left, they clinch up and Arlovski lands a knee to the groin. Albini gets five minutes to recover, he walks it off quickly and we restart on the feet. Arlovski eats a right and a left hook before they clinch again. Albini just kind of holding Arlovski throwing knees to the thigh. They end the round in the clinch.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Arlovski, 29-28 Arlovski overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Andrei Arlovski via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27 x2)

I don’t agree with 30-27 but that’s the best Arlovski has looked in years. Arlovski on the mic now, he says this feels great after the five straight losses and if he’d lost again he’d probably have retired. He thanks the fans for coming and for their support. He says he worked hard on his footwork and his hand position for this fight and hard work pays off.

Matt Brown is on a three fight losing streak and is just 1-5 in his last six fights. Brown has made it known this will be his last fight and he wants to go out with one more win. Diego Sanchez is returning to welterweight for the first time since 2010. Sanchez has been trading wins and losses recently, and he’s hoping to avoid another losing streak as he was last seen being violently knocked out by Al Iaquinta. Brown is the heavy favorite at -350 against a +265 comeback on Sanchez.

Welterweight Bout: Matt Brown (20-16, 171 lbs.) vs. Diego Sanchez (27-10, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Brown is two inches taller and has three inches of reach on Sanchez. Sanchez fighting southpaw, he comes out quickly and lands a right then tries a takedown against the fence. Brown defending and landing short elbows as Sanchez holds a single leg attempt. Brown defending well, lands another short elbow. They trade some knees to the thigh, Sanchez drops for another single leg but Brown defends and they separate. Brown coming forward now, avoids a lunging right and lands a bit of a left. Counter left from Brown lands. Brown lands a jab, Sanchez tries another single leg that stalls on the fence. Brown spins free and lands a jab. Brown stalking forward, avoids a couple of punches. Sanchez tries another single leg, this one doesn’t even come close. Brown lands a leg kick and a jab. Sanchez lands a body kick, Brown catches it and pushes Sanchez to the fence then lands an elbow. Sanchez lands another body kick, this one clearly bothered Brown for a second. Brown jabbing his way in close, lands a calf kick as well. Brown lands a body kick of his own then a knee to the body. Brown catches a kick and drives Sanchez to the fence then obliterates Sanchez with a single elbow strike.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Matt Brown via KO, elbow, at 3:44 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Brown for his work this evening. Brown gets an interview after that one, and likely his final fight as he’s announced this was his retirement fight. Brown thanks the UFC for the opportunity, thanks Sanchez for the fight and puts him over as a true warrior. He says he’s had internal problems for a long time, referencing his weakness to the body, he wishes he could have had a longer fight then thanks the veterans out there as well as Norfolk for their support. He says he wishes his family could be in the cage with him, puts over his boys as future champions. Anik asks him about the retirement talk, he says he wants to talk it over with his friends and family over the holidays but he put all of his focus on Sanchez because if he didn’t Sanchez would have whipped his ass. His kids are in the cage with him now, great moment, and he thanks the fans again and asks them to keep supporting the UFC.

Here’s the finish, looks like Brown put his whole life into that elbow. That’s also a historic finish, Brown just earned the most finishes in UFC welterweight history surpassing Matt Hughes.

Dustin Poirier has looked good since returning to lightweight but he’s coming off of an unfortunate No Contest with Eddie Alvarez after an errant knee left him unable to continue. Poirier is trying to position himself in the title picture with a win over a former champion here. Anthony Pettis is coming off of a successful return to lightweight after an ill advised featherweight campaign ended courtesy of Max Holloway, he’s trying to get a crack at the belt that used to be his or at least a shot at Tony Ferguson’s interim title. We’ve got a pick ’em according to the odds, -115 for each man.

Lightweight Bout: #13 Anthony Pettis (20-6, 155.5 lbs.) vs. #8 Dustin Poirier (21-5 1 NC, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Pettis is an inch taller and has half an inch of reach on Poirier. Poirier fighting southpaw while Pettis will switch his stance. Poirier walking forward early, Pettis opens orthodox as he likes just being in the opposite stance from his opponents. Pettis lands a couple of inside leg kicks, Poirier still pushing forward to keep him from settling into a rhythm. Pettis lands a bit of a right after having a flying knee blocked. Poirier lands a bit of a left then hits a double leg against the fence. Pettis sitting on the cage looking to wall walk. Pettis half setting up a guillotine choke, at least a threat of one. Poitier holding the legs and looking to pass, Pettis grabs a kimura, he’s got the double wrist lock but Poirier is composed on top and landing some lefts. Pettis bails on the wrist lock to get full guard. Poirier lands a couple of lefts then a right before he stands. Pettis hits an ankle sweep, nearly gets on top but they wind up clinched on the fence. Poirier lands a knee to the body and an elbow as they break. Pettis lands a right in close after they traded knees to the body. Pettis lands a glancing right. Poirier tries another takedown, Pettis defends this one and they’re on the fence again. Poirier lands a bit of a knee, Poitier wobbles him a bit with a punch as they break. Pettis lands a body kick. Poirier still coming forward, Pettis lands a right. Poirier lands another right, gets close and lands an uppercut but Pettis retaliates with a spinning back fist. Poirier gets close and is looking to force a fire fight, he tees off along the fence, Pettis fires back and we get RoadHouse for the final few seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Poirier

ROUND TWO: Pettis has some serious damage to his right eye and both guys are clearly in a fight. Pettis stalking forward now, lands a bit of a right to counter a leg kick. Poirier lands a bit of a left. Poirier after a takedown against the fence, he’s in pretty deep and elevates then finishes the double leg. Pettis tries quickly to get a triangle position but Poirier is pressuring through it. Pettis gets his legs in position but Poirier pulls free. Pettis after the triangle again, Poirier angles to the side and lands some hard blows, an elbow has Pettis bleeding pretty badly. Poirier has the back now with a body triangle locked on. Poirier after the choke, Pettis is bleeding badly from the eyebrow, there’s blood falling into his eyes but Pettis is able to spin through the body triangle and wind up in the guard of Poirier. Pettis lands a few elbows of his own, Poirier with elbows as well. Another couple of elbows from Pettis, Poirier to the turtle position and then back up, he shakes Pettis off and lands an elbow as he gets on top. Pettis tries to engage his legs but Poirier easily slips free and lands as Pettis turtles up. Poirier tires for the back, Pettis scrambles and gets a rear waist lock as Poirier stands. Pettis gets a trip and has the back again, Poirier stands and shakes him down then is on top again. This is crazy. Poirier lands an elbow, Pettis tries for a triangle but they stall out just long enough for the ref to pause the action so the doctor can check the cut on Pettis. Pettis is bleeding visibly but the doctor can get a look at the cut now. The cut isn’t long, it’s pretty deep and in a bad spot though. The doctor is OK with the fight continuing and they reset on the mat with Poirier in the guard of Pettis. Poirier postures up and lands a couple of elbows. Pettis keeps going for a triangle choke but Poitier keeps getting free. Pettis after the triangle again, this one is tight but Poirier is still able to slip free and get a crucifix as Pettis is turtled. Poitier lands some punches as the round ends. This fight is absurd.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Poitier, 20-18 Poirier overall

ROUND THREE: And my computer reset itself again, this is intolerable and I apologize. The third round was pretty crazy from what I saw, they were trading elbow and Poirier had top position on the mat when things went south. Poirier hit a reversal on an attempted sweep and Pettis tapped out due to some kind of abdominal injury if the replay is to be believed.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Dustin Poirier via TKO, strikes, at 2:08 of Round 3

Big big win for Poirier there. He’s on the mic, says he just beat two champions in a row (the Alvarez fight was a No Contest). He talks about working hard on his overall game especially his wrestling. He talks us through the finish, says it was weird as he felt that Pettis was hurt and he kind of wanted out. Poitier calls himself a nasty dude and he doesn’t call people out he just gets in the cage and fights. Asked who he wants next, Anik clearly didn’t listen, he says he’s going to fight the winner of Alvarez vs. Gaethje and then fight for the belt.

Here’s the finish, odd but if Pettis was injured it makes some sense. He could easily have pulled or torn something in his abdomen trying that reversal.

That’s it for Fight Night 120, and again I apologize for the technical issues on my end of things. My computer and I are going to have a long chat at some point tomorrow about this and try to get it sorted out. Thank you all for sticking with this despite the adversity. We’ll, hopefully, be breaking this down come 8pm eastern time Sunday on the 411 Ground and Pound Radio Show and I hope you’ll listen in be it live or after the fact. I’ll be back next week for Fight Night 121 where Fabricio Werdum fights Marcin Tybura in your main event. Until then everyone stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

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