Weidman defeats Maia in a lackluster opening fight on FOX
Chris Weidman didn’t exactly make the most of his FOX opportunity. Sure, the top prospect picked a network-television win on…
Chris Weidman didn’t exactly make the most of his FOX opportunity.
Sure, the top prospect picked a network-television win on just 11-days’ notice over Demian Maia, but the bout played out as a bit of a sloppy striking affair in what many hoped would prove a rousing ground battle.
Either way, the two served as the first main-card bout of Saturday’s UFC on FOX 2 event at Chicago’s United Center.
The two started out looking to bang. Maia’s ever-improving striking was initially relatively effective, and he snuck in a few knees and straight lefts. Still, Weidman looked comfortable in the pocket and returned fire just as frequently. Weidman did receive a few early warning for striking with an open hand, but it didn’t seem to cause an issue.
Weidman briefly held control on the floor in a momentary grappling exchange, but it was really his forward movement that seemed to earn him the first frame.
Chris Weidman Vs. Demian Maia
Fight was scheduled for 3 rounds (5x5x5)
Chris Weidman defeats Demian Maia via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)