LAS VEGAS -- Here are a few thoughts on UFC 181 before moving to fighter grades.
Let the record show, I scored the fight between Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler 48-47 for Hendricks. I had Hendricks winning rounds two, three and four, which is how judge Sal D'Amato had it.
It's one of those weird situations, though, because I'm happy Lawler got the decision. That might sound funny: scoring the fight for the champion but wanting the challenger to win. I assure you, it has nothing to do with any personal preference between them, it's just a scenario that can play out in this sport. I thought Hendricks did enough to win a few close rounds, but judging the fight as a whole, it definitely felt more like Lawler's night.
Hendricks looked like a champion who had thoroughly enjoyed his time off. Prior to the fight, I joked with him about chewing tobacco in the days leading up to a five-round title fight. He told me it's not the first "unhealthy" habit he's ever had leading up to competition. He used to drink soda after weighing-in during his college wrestling days.
He also admitted, however, that his MMA coaches want him to stop blowing up to 220 pounds between fights and that he'd commit to staying closer to 200 in the future. He reiterated that Saturday after the loss. I think it's a good step for Hendricks. Was it the reason he lost the title? I can't say that. But when you're trying to stand atop a pile of elite talent at 170 pounds, every little bit helps, including between-fight habits.
On Lawler's side of things, it was hard not to feel great for him. This was an accomplishment literally more than 10 years in the making. And the fact that he had his longtime mentors there with him -- Matt Hughes, Pat Miletich, boxing coach Matt Pena -- made it a cool, historic-feeling moment to witness.
Other takeaways from the card: CM Punk, huh? Look, long story short, as someone who appreciates the level of skill that usually occupies the Octagon, I'm not a fan of bringing in someone with a 0-0 record. There is just no arguing, however, that MMA is very much a mix of sports and entertainment, and it always will be. If CM Punk -- or are we calling him Phil Brooks? -- draws interest to the sport, it's not the end of the world.
I like Tony Ferguson. A lot. I've been on his bandwagon for a minute now and more are getting on board. He'll be a popular pick for "Fighter to Watch" in 2015. I know Edson Barboza wants a bigger name, but I definitely wouldn't mind seeing him fight Ferguson. Also, give Todd Duffee a top-10 opponent. I know he has two wins in two years, but I don't need to see this guy knock out a low-level heavyweight in the first round anymore. He says he's ready for a bigger challenge and I'm ready to see it.
And now, on to fighter grades from UFC 181.
