UFC 67 Results
The UFC 67 card was not as exciting as it potentially could have been. Had Rich Franklin and Matt Hughes been fighting, it would have drawn more attention. Instead, Hughes and Franklin will fight at UFC 68 – The Uprising alongside Randy Couture who will fight Tim Sylvia for the Heavyweight title.
Here are the highlights from UFC 67… UFC 67 marked the debut of Quinton “Rampage” Jackson who battled Marvin “The Beastman” Eastman. This fight was less than exciting and was partially explained by Rampage following his victory by attributing it to nerves on his part.
The other debut was of Miko Cro Cop who apparently obtained his moniker due to being a Croatian Police Officer in the anti-terrorist unit in his off time from UFC. Cro Cop’s debut was the most impressive of any of the recent new acquisitions, scoring a KO of Eddie Sanchez in the heavyweight division.
In the title fight, there was a lot of accompanying drama as Travis Lutter who a lot of people gave a decent chance to contend for Anderson Silva’s title, did not make weight. Lutter does not have a coach as he prepares himself. It was clear that Lutter was very disappointed as even though the bout still took place, it was no longer for the middleweight title. At times Lutter looked as though he may be in control – especially on the ground, but Lutter appeared to gas out and Silva ended up getting an arm bar locked in tight and then rained elbows on Lutter’s head causing him to tap. Following the fight, throaty screamer Rogan conducted his usual interview with the victor and Silva was the most animated I have ever seen him, grabbing the microphone and exclaiming in his native language. Silva had indicated that he was somewhat insulted by Lutter not making weight and disappointing the fans. Silva appears to be a man of principle in that he values respect among fighters above all else as well as the fans who show their support. Silva may be champion for quite a while.
Without a doubt, the most exciting bout of the night was between Tyler Griffin and Frankie Edgar who clashed in a lightweight fight. These warriors exhibited every exciting component of an entertaining UFC contest. Both fighters were very well prepared in terms of cardio conditioning as you never saw either fighter get gassed throughout the 3 rounds that were completed. The see-saw battle almost seemed scripted in the sense that it showcase excellent ground skills, transitions and standup. Many fans feel that the lightweight division is the most exiting and these two fighters are adding to the list. Even though Griffin lost the decision, he fought so well that he should be considered for many future opportunities and at only 22 years old, this will surely happen at his will with his continued training.
Dana White is trying to make the UFC more exciting and is doing a reasonable job in doing so, however; lately the Pay Per Views could be more well constructed. UFC 68 appears to be one worth ordering. Let’s hope this is used as a blueprint for future PPV’s.