Nate Marquardt pummeled his way back into UFC contender status with the TKO-defeat of Rousimar Palhares in the main event of UFC Fight Night 22 at Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas, Wednesday night.
After losing a title bout against Chael Sonnen at UFC 109 last February Marquardt was no doubt all too eager to get back into contender status. Even if UFC President Dana White needs more proof that Marquardt is not only worthy but even more importantly, ready for another title shot, it was absolutely clear to all MMA fans last night when he demolished the submission artist, Palhares, from Brazil without much trouble at 3:28 in round one.
Although both fighters were rather cautious at first Marquardt eventually unloaded his fire power on Palhares while avoiding a ground battle. Naturally, Palhares eventually went for a takedown since trading punches with the hard-hitting Marquardt was obviously not his best option. He even managed to lock Marquardt into guillotine choke hold once they hit the mat and then an a heel hook. But since the much more experienced Marquardt is not exactly a dud in the grappling department with 15 wins via submission on his fight record he escaped and took revenge on Palhares with a barrage of ground and pound that sealed Palhares' fate once and for all.
While there was no doubt that neither fighter was going to let this bout go to the judges' scorecards the sudden reversal and finish by Marquardt was quite impressive and even elicited accusations of cheating via greasing by Palhares, very similar to the vaseline controversy follwing GSP's win over BJ penn.
Being caught by a powerful right can hardly be discredited by grease, though, which makes Palhares simply look like a sore looser.
Comments
Palhares made the heel hook submission a speciality, ok fine, but because Marquardt avoided that threat doesn't mean he cheated.
Seriously, Marquardt has been checked up before and after the fight! What will Palhares get from that BJ Penn attitude?
I agree 100 percent, Allan. It's a rather ridiculous claim. Now as much as when BJ Penn made it against GSP.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!