The “Fight of the Night” bonus went to Johny Hendricks and Alex Serdyukov, who had a three round all out war that Hendricks won via unanimous decision with all three judges scoring it 29-28.

“Knockout of the Night” went to Damacio Page for his brutal knockout of Marcus Galvao. Reports indicate that Galvao will be fine despite being removed from the cage on a stretcher.

In the main event, despite Garcia being well known for his punching power, it was Brown who landed the devastating punch as he landed a right to the head of Garcia early in the first round. What followed was a brutal ground and pound assault that saw Garcia get split wide open.

After realizing that Garcia wasn’t about to give up and the ref was not going to stop the fight Brown switched gears and choked Garcia out with an arm triangle choke thus earning him “Submission of the Night” honors.

All four fighters will receive an additional $7,500 for their performances. Salary information has not yet been made available.

The WEC will return next month on April 5 for WEC 40 in Chicago, Illinois at the UIC Pavilion.

• Mike Brown def. Leonard Garcia via submission (head-and-arm choke) — Round 1, 1:57
• Ricardo Lamas def. Bart Palaszewski via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
• Jose Aldo def. Chris Mickle via TKO (strikes) — Round 1, 1:39
• “Razor: Rob McCullough def. Marcus Hicks via majority decision (29-29, 30-27, 29-28)
• Danny Castillo def. Phil Cardella via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)
• Damacio Page def. Marcos Galvao via knockout — Round 1, 0:18
• Johny Hendricks def. Alex Serdyukov via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Kenji Osawa def. Rafael Rebello via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 27-30)
• Alex Karalexis def. Greg McIntyre via TKO (punches) — Round 1, 4:19
• John Franchi def. Mike Budnik via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
• Mike Pierce def. Justin Haskins via TKO (punches) — Round 3, 3:39

Eleven bouts total are set for WEC 39 with four fights slated to be televised during VERSUS’ two-plus hour telecast that will begin at 9:30 p.m. ET.

All 22 fighters made weight at today’s weigh-ins for the event. The results are as follows:

VERSUS Main Card -

• Mike Brown (144.25) vs. Leonard Garcia (145) for Brown’s WEC featherweight title
• Ricardo Lamas (154.5) vs. Bart Palaszewski (155.5)
• Chris Mickle (145) vs. Jose Aldo (145.5)
• Rob McCullough (156) vs. Marcus Hicks (155.5)

Non-Televised Preliminary Card -

• Phil Cardella (155.5) vs. Danny Castillo (156)
• Damacio Page (136) vs. Marcos Galvao (136)
• Alex Serdyukov (171) vs. Johny Hendricks J(171)
• Rafael Rebello (135.25) vs. Kenji Osawa (135.25)
• Greg McIntyre (155) vs. Alex Karalexis (156)
• John Franchi (145) vs. Mike Budnik (145.25)
• Mike Pierce (170) vs. Justin Haskins (170.25)

Palaszewski, 30-11, made the revelation that Crunkilton was forced to pull out of the show due to injury during a guest appearance on “The Ground and Pound” web radio show on Tuesday night. According to MMAWeekly.com, Palaszewski will remain on the card and it slated to face Ricardo Lamas, an undefeated Chicago-based fighter with a 5-0 record.

Palaszewski, a former star with the now-defunct International Fight League, made his WEC debut at WEC 37 this past December. Facing season one veteran of The Ultimate Fighter Alex Karalexis, the Team Curran member TKO’d Karalexis at 1:11 of round 2.

WEC 39 is scheduled to emanate from the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas and slated to air on VERSUS (9 p.m. ET). Scheduled to headline the event is WEC featherweight champion Mike Thomas Brown (20-4) making his first career title defense in a bout against number one contender Leonard Garcia (16-3).

Eleven total bouts for the event are scheduled with five slated to be televised on VERSUS starting a 9 p.m. ET. In addition to Brown vs. Garcia and Palaszewski vs. Lamas, other bouts slated to be broadcast include Jose Aldo (13-1) vs. Chris Mickle (26-11-1) in featherweight action; “Razor” Rob McCullough (16-5) vs. Marcus Hicks (6-1) in a battle of lightweights; and welterweight action between former NCAA champion Johny Hendricks (4-0) and Alex Serdyukov (12-4).

The non-televised portion of the card will include matchups between bantamweights Marcos Galvao (9-2) and Damacio Page (9-3); lightweights Mike Budnik (8-1) and John Franchi (4-0); welterweights Justin Haskins (5-2) vs. Mike Pierce (6-1); lightweights Greg McIntyre (5-2) vs. Alex Karalexis (9-4); lightweights Danny Castillo (6-1) vs. Phil Cardella (7-2); and bantamweights Kenji Osawa (13-7-1) vs. Rafael Rebello (5-2).

Scheduled to headline the event is WEC featherweight champion Mike Thomas Brown (20-4) making his first career title defense in a bout against number one contender Leonard Garcia (16-3).

Eleven total bouts for the event are scheduled with five slated to be televised on VERSUS starting a 9 p.m. ET. In addition to Brown vs. Garcia, other bouts slated to be broadcast include Jose Aldo (13-1) vs. Chris Mickle (26-11-1) in featherweight action; Richard Crunkilton (17-1) vs. Bart Palaszewski (30-11); “Razor” Rob McCullough (16-5) vs. Marcus Hicks (6-1) in a battle of lightweights; and welterweight action between former NCAA champion Johny Hendricks (4-0) and Alex Serdyukov (12-4).

The WEC is expected to disband its welterweight division and Hendricks’ matchup against Serdyukov could be a final evaluation as to whether the former Oklahoma State college wrestling standout is ready to move onto the UFC. Also, the winner of Crunkilton vs. Palaszewski is expected to earn a guaranteed WEC lightweight title shot.

The non-televised portion of the card will include matchups between bantamweights Marcos Galvao (9-2) and Damacio Page (9-3); lightweights Mike Budnik (8-1) and John Franchi (4-0); welterweights Justin Haskins (5-2) vs. Mike Pierce (6-1); lightweights Greg McIntyre (5-2) vs. Alex Karalexis (9-4); lightweights Danny Castillo (6-1) vs. Phil Cardella (7-2); and bantamweights Kenji Osawa (13-7-1) vs. Rafael Rebello (5-2).

The complete card is as follows…

Televised Main Card (VERSUS) -

• MIKE THOMAS BROWN VS. LEONARD GARCIA
• RICH CRUNKILTON vs. BART PALASZEWSKI
• JOSE ALDO vs. CHRIS MICKLE
• ROB McCULLOUGH vs. MARCUS HICKS
• JOHNY HENDRICKS vs. ALEX SERDYUKOV

Non-Televised Preliminary Card -

• DANNY CASTILLO vs. PHIL CARDELLA
• MARCOS GALVAO vs. DAMACIO PAGE
• KENJI OSAWA vs. RAFAEL REBELLO
• ALEX KARALEXIS vs. GREG McINTYRE
• MIKE BUDNIK vs. JOHN FRANCHI
• JUSTIN HASKINS vs. MIKE PIERCE

The event, which will be televised on VERSUS, will feature WEC featherweight champion Mike Thomas Brown making his first defense of the title against former UFC lightweight competitor Leonard Garcia. Brown won the belt against former champion Urijah Faber following a first round TKO this past November.

The winner of Brown vs. Garcia appears to be in line to meet Faber following the former champ’s first round submission win against Jens Pulver this past Sunday night.

The complete card for WEC 39 is as follows:

Televised Main Card -

• WEC featherweight title: Mike Thomas Brown vs. Leonard Garcia
• Richard Crunkilton vs. Bart Palaszewski
• Marcus Hicks vs. Rob McCullough
• Johny Hendricks vs. Alex Serdyukov

Non-televised Preliminary Card -

• Marcos Galvao vs. Damacio Page
• Mike Budnik vs. John Franchi
• Justin Haskins vs. Douglas Lima
• Alex Karalexis vs. Greg McIntyre
• Phil Cardella vs. Danny Castillo
• Kenji Osawa vs. Rafael Rebello

FiveOuncesOfPain.com has learned from sources close to the event that Mike Thomas Brown will be making his first WEC featherweight title defense when he takes on number one contender Leonard Garcia.

In addition to Brown’s first-ever featherweight title defense, WEC welterweight champion Carlos Condit will meet Brock Larson in a rematch from their WEC 29 encounter in August of 2007.

Garcia, a former member of the UFC’s lightweight division, improved his WEC record to 2-0 following his first round TKO win against Jens Pulver during WEC 36 this past November. Prior to that, the Greg Jackson-trained fighter had recorded a first round knockout over Hiroyuki Takaya at WEC 32 this past February.

Brown won the title from former champion Urijah Faber following a first round TKO at WEC 36. The American Top Team product earned the shot at Faber after recording a unanimous decision victory over Jeff Curran in his WEC debut at WEC 34 this past June.

Condit’s previous fight vs. Larson ended following an armbar submission at 2:21 of round 1. Since the win, Condit won his next two fights over Carlos Prater at WEC 32 and Hiromitsu Miura at WEC 35 this past August.

Larson, who trains out of the Mixed Martial Arts Academy of Minnesota, has gone undefeated in three bouts since losing to Condit. His three wins have come against Troy Allison at CFX 7, John Alessio at WEC 33, and Prater at WEC 35.

In addition to Brown vs. Garcia and Condit vs. Larson II, WEC 39 is also considered likely to feature a lightweight bout between “Razor” Rob McCullough and Marcus Hicks.

FiveOuncesOfPain.com was the first to report earlier this month that the reported WEC 38 bout between the two had been postponed due to wear and tear sustained by McCullough during a heated fight against Donald Cerrone at WEC 36 in November.

However, McCullough revealed during a Tuesday conference call to promote the upcoming airing of his bout against Cerrone on VERSUS that the fight vs. Hicks appears to be a go for WEC 39 in March.

McCullough’s unanimous decision loss to Cerrone at WEC 36 reportedly was a “Match of the Year” candidate and the fight will be shown in its entirety for the first time during VERSUS’ Dec. 28 premiere of “WEC Best of 2008.”

According to MMAjunkie.com, the unnanounced March event could take place in Florida and be headlined by WEC featherweight champion Mike Thomas Brown defending his title vs. Leonard Garcia.

Forrest Griffin: $310,000 (fight of the night)
Rampage Jackson: $285,000 (fight of the night)
Gabriel Gonzaga: $100,000
Cole Miller: $80,000 (sub of the night)
Melvin Guillard: $80,000 (KO of the night)
Josh Koscheck: $70,000
Joe Stevenson: $60,000
Marcus Aurelio: $40,000
Tyson Griffin: $40,000
Patrick Cote: $32,000
Ricardo Almeida: $23,000
Chris Lytle: $14,000
Gleison Tibau: $11,000
Jorge Gurgel: $10,000
Corey Hill: $8,000
Justin Buchholz: $8,000
Dennis Siver: $7,000
Justin McCully: $5,000

Maybe I am alone in thinking this, but I’ve felt for a long time now that Ross would have (and still could me) a very strong MMA play-by-play announcer. I’d be shocked if he’s never been approached about an MMA job.

Ross recently switched from WWE Monday Night Raw to WWE Friday Night Smackdown. He also owns his own barbeque joint in his native Oklahoma, which has a website that includes a personal blog. J.R. watched UFC 86 with his son-in-law this past weekend and blogged about it today. I found his perspective to be extremely interesting…

Ross on the Forrest Griffin vs. Quinton Jackson matchup…

“Griffin’s win via decision did not surprise me once I saw the fight but I certainly thought that the Memphis native, Jackson, would win the contest going in. Jackson is a long time fan of Jerry Lawler and even seemed to channel the late Junkyard Dog with Jackson’s howling and his wearing of a dog chain a la JYD way back in the day. Griffin’s kicks were startlingly effective and had to impress the judges along with Griffin’s constant, aggressive nature. A re-match is naturally a guaranteed deal.”

Ross on Josh Koscheck…

“Josh Koscheck should learn to utilize the fact that, seemingly, most fans don’t like him for whatever reason and go with it. Fans pay big money to watch people get their asses whipped, just ask the WWE’s Edge, and a great antagonist is money in the bank for any promoter. Nice to hear “Ironman” used as  entrance music for one entrance during the show as it took me back to the Road Warrior days.”

Ross appears to be a big Tyson Griffin fan…

“Young Tyson Griffin seems to be on his way to stardom as the UFC seems to have another future box office fighter evolving.”

On the commentary and post-fight interviews…

“Joe Rogan is an excellent announcer and I hope the people making the decisions at the UFC know how valuable Rogan is to the UFC viewers. I am not overly unbiased as you would assume especially considering my on air role, but often times the announcing of specific events are overlooked or taken for granted. On the production side of things, the UFC could use a 3rd voice, and this person doesn’t’ have to be seen, to read the sponsor billboards and other such info to enhance the overall production values. This is no big deal but might make the presentation slicker. PXP talent Mike Goldberg is informed and prepared which yours truly certainly respects. Goldberg was once give the opportunity to sit in the PXP chair on Monday Night  Raw. Some of the post match interviews come off as bush league with the fighters simply wanting to plug their sponsors and they are not as smooth at it as NASCAR drivers. I would rather, as a fan, hear more about the just completed fight than someone’s new website or clothing line or where every one is going to go to drink after the show.”

On the colorful metaphors that Griffin utilized in his post-fight interview…

“For the UFC to be accepted more universally, language used by Griffin needs to be addressed as it doesn’t’ send out a classy message to a mass audience even though young males may think it was cool. I mean to take nothing away from Forrest Griffin who is one tough son of a gun and is a guy that I will pay to watch fight again but coarse language won’t attract big time sponsors or enhance the building of a brand that is one of the most exciting new sports in the world.”

On Bruce Buffer…

“Another guy that might want to consider a Sanka is right announcer Bruce Buffer who seems to be a little over dramatic at times. I know that I couldn’t do Buffer’s job and I do like the fact that the younger Buffer is a Texas Hold ‘Em aficionado.”

To read Ross’ entire blog, just click here.

If St. Pierre buzzsaws through (Jon) Fitch then yes, we’ll do Penn vs. GSP,” said White.

White also confirmed that he and Penn discussed the match-up on Saturday and ran through many of the details.

I talked with B.J. – we met for most of the day,” said White.

B.J. Penn vs. Georges St. Pierre has the potential to be a fantastic match-up. A properly motivated Penn against a peaking St. Pierre? Wow, this could be one of the best and most skilled fights on the planet.

To read the rest of the UFC 86 News and Notes article, please click here or here.

CLICK HERE for more UFC 86-related content from 5 Oz of Pain!

While the main event was spectacular, from a production standpoint, this was your typical run of the mill UFC event. Same rap-metal music beds, same format for pre-fight vignettes, and the same graphics package that comes off dull in HD. Some things never change in life and UFC pay-per-views are one of them. You’re not buying a UFC PPV for production value, you’re buying it to see the fights. As I was watching the telecast last night, I realized that their telecasts aren’t really designed for one or two people sitting at home watching a fight by themselves. It is intended for a group of people watching the card at a party or a bar. Everything on the show is secondary to the fight — even the commentary in a lot of ways.

I do have the say that I was once again appalled at there being another commercial during the pay-per-view. The FCC should enact a law the forbids commercials to be played during a pay-per-view telecast. If you pay full retail price for a broadcast, my feeling is you own the time and that the time is yours. A company should not be allowed to used time someone else has paid for to run commercials. How is that fair to the consumer? The FCC worries about a lot of petty stuff and most of it really doesn’t affect the common consumer. Here’s an example of the consumer being taken advantage of and not a word. The UFC and their production company needs to realize that inserting ads onto a PPV telecast is beyond tacky. It’s classless and unfair.

From classless to classy, I have to point out that Miguel Torres got some brief face time on a UFC pay-per-view. Normally the WEC cameo on a UFC PPV is reserved for Urijah Faber, but Torres deserves and needs the notoriety. He has a chance to become the new top pound-for-pound number one in the world. Much like when George Costanza said he couldn’t envision another opportunity in which he’d be able to have sex, I can’t envision a scenario in which Torres loses a fight at 135 pounds. Also, props to the UFC for improving the pace of the show again.

Two other things I noticed: first, there were a TON of empty seats during the first two fights. Vegas is normally a late-arriving crowd but the local fans are usually good about making sure they are there once the fights go live on PPV. The fact that the crowd was so light even after the telecast started shows just how much of a one fight show UFC 86 was. Second, I found it extremely strange that Rampage came out with a logo-less black t-shirt. That might be the only time we ever see a high-profile fighter enter the cage or ring in a sponsorless shirt. I realize Rampage has a deal with Affliction, but was that his way of protesting? Was it an Affliction shirt being worn inside out?

Onto the fights.

Tyson Griffin defeats Marcus Aurelio via unanimous decision

Wow, I couldn’t get over the size difference. I knew Aurelio was taller, but I had no idea he was going to be that much bigger than Griffin. I couldn’t decide whether it looked like a lightweight fighting a featherweight or a welterweight fighting a lightweight. This was the first time I ever felt Griffin looked too small for lightweight. He’s built pretty solid, but I can’t help but wonder if the guy could cut to 145 pounds. If he could, there would be a lot of money in it for him because they could sell the hell out of a rematch between he and Urijah Faber.

It wasn’t a horrible fight, but it wasn’t terribly thrilling either. At times the fight was about as intense as a sparring session. The difference in body-types made the action awkward at times. Griffin still showed tremendous boxing ability to go along with his strong wrestling. No, the guy doesn’t finish fights but he’s extremely skilled and almost all of his fights in the UFC have been exciting. It’s especially hard to finish guys that have 3-4 inches on you in the height department that are also 12-15 pounds heavier come the day of a fight.

I can’t help but wonder if Griffin could he be a finisher as a featherweight?

Joe Stevenson submits Gleison Tibau on the second round

I enjoyed this fight a lot, in large part because it told a story. Yes, I am a sucker when it comes to a story as it pertains to a fight. Sure, I can watch a fight just for the sake of watching a fight, but I think it’s always more interesting when there is some drama behind things. Fighters are human beings and I like it when we aren’t having fights just to have fights. When it comes to sports, you aren’t going to find athletes with better back stories than MMA fighters. The UFC needs to do more story telling with non-main event fights.

Mike Goldberg revealing that Stevenson’s seven-year old son was in attendance for his fight for the first time ever caught my attention. I thought it was a good call on the part of Joe Rogan to say he hoped that Stevenson didn’t feel any added pressure. Anyone with a child knows that’s a pretty good point. Getting hurt in front of his son is something that had to go through Stevenson’s mind.

The comeback nature of the outcome and Stevenson submitting an American Top Team fighter only added to the drama. I really thought Stevenson was on his way to a loss. I felt that this was tthe only fight other than Jackson vs. Griffin that I was able to derive any pleasure from.

Josh Koscheck defeats Chris Lytle via unanimous decision

I really did not like this fight. It was just another case of Koscheck relying heavily on his wrestling and proving that he is simply too much for his opponent. I almost would have rather seen Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Justin McCully, simply because it would have meant that the UFC would have had a heavyweight fight on the broadcast

Stylistically, I was not a fan of Koscheck vs. Lytle at all. One fight I’d like to see is Lytle vs. Marcus Davis. I think style wise the two matchup much better than Lytle vs. Koscheck..

As for Koscheck, I’m not really sure where he goes from here. He’s already fought and lost to the current champion of his division. The UFC can’t put him in there with anyone they hope to groom as a future opponent for St. Pierre, such as Thiago Alves, because Koscheck will likely put them and kill their momentum.

Patrick Cote wins unanimous decision over Ricardo Almeida

Not a good fight with a total clash of styles. Sometimes the striker vs. submission expert matchup works, but this is one of those times when it didn’t. I also think this is another case of the UFC making an error by promising a title shot before a fight takes place. As I’ve said before, when the UFC comes out and promises the winner of the bout a title shot, they effectively eliminate any motive for a fighter wanting to take any risks during the fight. This isn’t pro wrestling; winning and losing matters to a fighter. You tell them that there’s a title shot at stake and they aren’t going to do anything to piss away a coveted shot.

Does Cote deserve a middleweight title shot later in the year? Sure, why not. But as much as he’s looked improved during his second UFC stint, I don’t think he has a chance in hell of defeating Anderson Silva. A lot of people aren’t excited about the prospect of Cote vs. Silva, which is understandable. But name me a middleweight fighter that Silva hasn’t already beaten that you care about seeing fight for the title? That’s where the problem lies.

Yes, Bisping vs. Silva is intriguing, but it’s a fight that shouldn’t happen until 2009. The UFC also should keep Bisping away from Silva if there’s any concern that Silva might abandon 185 pounds because you at least want to have one guy that could potentially replace him as middleweight champion that hasn’t been destroyed by him.

Forrest Griffin wins unanimous decision over Quinton “Rampage” Jackson

There are a couple of points I want to clarify here. To those who claim I scored the fight for Jackson because I am biased, I had to stop myself from laughing. What bias do I have for Jackson or against Forrest Griffin? I am a fan of the sport and a fan of both fighters. I’m totally fine with Griffin as the new UFC light heavyweight champion. I think he’s great for the sport and his title win is also good. It was a close fight and I don’t have a problem with anyone scoring it in favor of Griffin. He fought an excellent fight and the only round that was not close was the second, which clearly went in Griffin’s favor.

The only bias I can think of is that I picked Jackson to win? But that’s a joke. To be honest, I don’t care all that much about how my picks turn out. I’ve made many high-profile picks and have been wrong before. There have been times where the outcome of a fight has gone in favor with my pick yet I am still championing the cause of the losing fighter because I felt he truly won. Over at CBSSports.com, it clearly shows my record of major MMA events as over 60%. That’s a pretty strong win percentage so I’m clearly not concerned about how Jackson losing affects my overall percentage, since it’s very respectable. Irrespective of that, I’m not a professional handicapper. If I get a high-profile pick wrong, I don’t lose my job over it. Life still goes on and pretty much goes on the exact same way if I had gotten it right.

It’s just yet another case of people not being able to counter an argument on its merits and hitting below the belt. I just find it humorous because again, what kind of bias do I have towards Quinton “Rampage” Jackson? Someone disagreed with you. Get over yourself. I realize the majority of people out there believe that Forrest won, but I’m not the only won who scored the fight in favor of Jackson. There are also a lot of people that believe neither fighter won.

If you scored it in favor of Griffin, you don’t see me screaming that you’re the one whose biased. Do you see me running around playing the race card against you? Do you see me writing about how the judges were influence by a crowd that was clearly partial towards Griffin? No, because I respect everyone’s opinions. This is a fight that could have gone either way. I can accept the fact that a lot of people believe Griffin won. Jackson left a close fight in the hands of the judges and has no one to blame but himself. I’m perfectly fine with the decision that was rendered. To those who countered my Rampage post from last night in a thoughtful, articulate manner, I am greatly appreciative of your contribution to the comments area. The site is a better place for it.

Also, several people in the days leading up to my fight analysis questioned my comment in which I said Griffin has a “world class chin.” Sorry, getting caught vs. Keith Jardine does not mean you have a glass jaw. Griffin has been in many brawls and has eaten a lot of punches that would have floored the average fighter. He yet again ate quite a few power punches and with the exception of a first round knockdown, he maintained his composure throughout the entire duration of the fight.

That said, I do believe there should be an immediate rematch. I don’t think Jackson was screwed, but the fight was close and the old champion performed well enough that he deserves another shot. As his trainer Juanito Ibarra said after the fight, Forrest did not take the fight away from Jackson.

Just looking at the economic impact of a possible rematch, and I think it’s a shoe-in we’ll see the two fight sooner rather than later. They could hold the rematch off until December, or try to bring them back in October in hopes of having the winner of Jackson vs. Griffin II possibly fight Chuck Liddell in December. That could be pushing it though.

Regardless, I believe that Griffin is a deserving champion and last night’s win makes him the number one light heavyweight in the world. Sometimes I caught some grief from people because of how high I ranked Griffin in my top ten light heavyweight rankings. Where are those people now?

As I stated before, last night’s main event was one of the best I’ve ever seen close out a big show. I liked Stevenson vs. Tibau because it told a story. Well, this fight had a lot of story to it. When Griffin came out and proved right away he was much more a fleet of foot, he instantly showed everyone he felt he had a gameplan to defeat Rampage. As the first round continued, it was obvious in thinking back about all of Jackson’s pre-fight comments that he clearly underestimated Griffin. As time went on, the crowd’s enthusiasm only added to the drama. And as the fight went on, I also couldn’t help but wonder whether we were on the verge of seeing the first-ever “organic” (meaning, a fighter that won TUF that hadn’t previously fought in the UFC) winner of “The Ultimate Fighter” claim a world title? When the fight ended, I honestly had no idea how the scoring was going to go.

In regards to Jackson belittling Griffin in interviews leading up to the fight, I am pretty sure that Jackson has respected Griffin all along and that a lot of what he said leading up to the fight was merely a case of him putting his game face on a little early. There was also some marketing taking place on the part of Rampage. This was proven to me as being fact after Jackson handled himself in such a classy manner following a close loss. The two paid each other a lot of respect during the post-fight interviews with Rogan inside the cage, and it was something I greatly appreciated. Jackson didn’t use the mic time to put himself over and stump for a rematch by questioning the judges. Instead, he gave Griffin his full endorsement as champion. Way to go.

And was it just me, or did Griffin steal the gameplan that Keith Jardine used to fight Chuck Liddell? It was almost verbatim. It also looked like for much of the fight (until the end, at least) that Jackson had gone to the Liddell school of checking kicks. I don’t understand why some fighters just neglect to check kicks. You don’t feel it right away in a lot of cases, but the pain creeps up on you. The pain Jackson feels now in that leg is probably twice as bad now as it was yesterday. If you don’t have good reflexes, checking kicks isn’t the easiest thing in the world to do. But you at least have to make an effort. I do think it was smart for Rampage not to switch stances, because then Griffin would have chopped the shit out of the other leg and instead of having one leg he could walk on, he’d have none.

Overall, any time you have a main event that is this high-profile and delivers as far as overall quality, it’s a great thing for the sport, regardless of who wins. It was the kind of fight that can convert non-fans into fans. It was the kind of main event that can help the sport grow and one that every MMA fan can be proud of.

According to UFC President Dana White, Patrick Cote has earned himself a title shot. The plan is to have Anderson Silva fight with Yushin Okami, then slide Cote into the title fight against the winner.

In an attempt to muffle the cash register sounds going on in White’s head, he commented nonchalantly on a Griffin-Jackson rematch:

Rampage wants a rematch. Forrest said he’d give him a rematch. A rematch would probably be good for everyone involved. But there’s a lot of different things involved.

There are a million different scenarios we can do. It also depends on his (Rampage’s) leg.

White also mentioned that the UFC is trying to do shows in Chicago in October, and Boston in November. These two shows will come just after the UFC’s October 18 card in Birmingham, England. So maybe a Fight Night in Chicago, and pay-per-view in Boston the following month.

Undercard fights at approx 8 pm EST and 5 Oz of Pain will post results as they happen.

Main Card

• Forrest Griffin def. Rampage Jackson via Unanimous Decision.
  New UFC Light Heavyweight Champ!
  The leg kicks left Rampage hobbling throughout the final 3 rounds.
• Patrick Cote def. Ricardo Almeida via Split Decision.
• Joe Stevenson def. Gleison Tibau via Submission (Guillotine) Rd. 2.
  Yes, Joe Daddy won with a Guillotine Choke AGAIN.
• Josh Koscheck def. Chris Lytle via Unanimous Decision.
  Lytle’s face was a bloody mess.
• Tyson Griffin vs. Marcus Aurelio via Unanimous Decision

Undercard

• Gabriel Gonzaga def. Justin McCully via Submission (Kimura) Rd. 1
• Cole Miller def. Jorge Gurgel via Submission (triangle) Rd. 3
• Melvin Guillard def. Denis Siver via KO Rd. 1
• Justin Buchholz def. Corey Hill via Submission (RNC) Rd. 2

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The weigh-in results are as follows:

Televised Card

• Quinton “Rampage” Jackson (205) vs. Forrest Griffin (205)
• Ricardo Almeida (185) vs. Patrick Cote (185)
• Josh Koscheck (170) vs. Chris Lytle (170)
• Marcus Aurelio (155) vs. Tyson Griffin (155)
• Joe Stevenson (155) vs. Gleison Tibau (156)

Preliminary Card

• Gabriel Gonzaga (249) vs. Justin McCully (236)
• Jorge Gurgel (155) vs. Cole Miller (155)
• Melvin Guillard (155) vs. Dennis Siver (155)
• Justin Buchholz (155) vs. Corey Hill (155)

Pay-per-view coverage of UFC 86: “Jackson vs. Griffin” starts tomorrow night at 10pm E.T.

Check out more UFC 86 content on 5 Oz of Pain.

Quinton Jackson vs. Forrest Griffin

Sam Cupitt: Forrest, in my opinion, has one way to win this fight and that’s by submission. I very much doubt he’ll be able to take Rampage down and because of that the only way for him to win will be to catch Jackson in something off of his back. I think that’s a lot more plausible than a lot of other people seem to think but I don’t think it will be very probable. When you compare Rampage’s attributes to Forrest’s, it becomes clear how many more ways Rampage has to win this fight than Forrest. Bigger puncher, stronger chin, better wrestling. All this adds up to an eventual 3rd round KO for Quinton “Rampage” Jackson. Rampage via 3rd round KO.

Adam Morgan: The only area where Griffin has the advantage in this fight is his size advantage. He’s a monstrous 205 lbs. fighter but I doubt that will make a difference. His chin is questionable, his muay thai is average, he doesn’t possess much power and his wrestling is less than stellar. Rampage has the advantage in all of these areas. As long as he can deal with Griffin’s size then the fight shouldn’t be an issue for him. I expect Griffin to put up a tough fight but I think Rampage will overwhelm him with all of his tools. Rampage via TKO, round two.

Gary Herman: Forrest Griffin and Rampage Jackson are somewhat similar fighters. They are both looking to stand. Neither is looking to be overly technical, and neither is likely to lock in a submission. The x-factor that Griffin has is Randy Couture in his corner. No one – absolutely no one – gameplans better for a fight than Couture. Couture’s plans for Tim Sylvia and Gabriel Gonzaga were flawless. Couture had a perfect gameplan for Forrest against Shogun as well. Even with Couture in his corner, Forrest’s only way to win is still by decision. I don’t think Griffin will take the necessary risks to knock out Rampage. The question is will Rampage get tired in the late rounds? I don’t know. He did hang in there with Dan Henderson and looked very good in the late rounds. Rampage has a lot of power and will look to finish Griffin early. Griffin has been caught early in fights (Jardine and even Tito to some extent).It’s not too hard to see why Rampage Jackson is the favorite in the fight. It’s hard to pick against him. So I won’t. Rampage by TKO in round 3.

Caleb Newby: Rampage has the technique, power, explosiveness, and chin advantages. That’s a lot of cards in one man’s deck. Forrest has a ton of heart and the ability to fight at a range, along with some somewhat under appreciated jiu-jitsu. Still, I can’t imagine Rampage getting caught in a sub here, and I HIGHLY doubt Forrest will KO the champ. That leaves a decision — with some astute game planning and execution may not be impossible. I fully expect Forrest to back peddle and throw leg kicks for the first couple rounds and avoid any prolonged conflict, stick and moving Little Mac style. That being said, Forrest can be hurt and has said several times how he doesn’t really get into fight mode until he is cracked a couple times. With Rampage, it may only take a couple to leave Forrest on “queer street” as they like to say. I personally hope Forrest makes a game of it, but I don’t think you can pick him as a favorite here. Rampage via TKO, round two.

David Andrest: Forrest Griffin comes into this fight off a successful season of The Ultimate Fighter 8. Unlike most I was not as impressed with his victory over a poorly conditioned and possibly injured Mauricio Rua. I like Forrest Griffin as a fighter, he does the right things, trains with the right camp, but barring a major improvement in his entire game I don’t know if he has enough to beat Jackson. There is nothing in his record that would indicate he can beat Rampage. Rampage KO round 2.

Paul Balsom: As much as I would like to implement some MMA math here (i.e. Shogun > Rampage, Griffin > Shogun = Griffin > Rampage), I don’t think this formula will work here. I think Rampage takes Forrest on the feet, in the clinch, in the wrestling aspect, and with his submission defense. I also don’t think Forrest is going to tire out Rampage with his pace, like maybe he thinks he will. I say that Forrest survives for a round or two, then eventually Rampage will do something similar to what Keith Jardine did to Forrest and pummel his with punches on the ground to warrant a ref stoppage. Rampage via TKO in round 3.

Patrick Cote vs. Ricardo Almeida

Sam Cupitt: There’s a big difference between Rob Yundt and Patrick Cote. A difference I think we will see that difference in this fight. Sure, Cote’s submission defense is suspect at best but for the fight to go there Almeida needs to be able to get inside of Cote. To do that he will need to at least “put something in his face” as Couture would say. I don’t think Cote will be too worried with anything Almeida has to offer standing which should result in him being able to frustrate Almeida with combinations every time Almeida advances upon him. Patrick Cote via unanimous decision.

Adam Morgan: Almeida is a guy who left the MMA world at the top of his game and has come back to make a contender out of himself at 185 lbs. in the UFC. If he can make this a ground battle then Cote is no match for him. It Cote can keep it standing then he should be able to punish Almeida on the feet. Cote is a tough test for Almeida as he tries to make a surge towards the 185 lbs. title but I think it’s one he’ll pass with flying colors. Ricardo Almeida via submission, round two.

Gary Herman: I believe this is a showcase fight for Almeida. We’ve seen enough of Cote to know that he is a good – not great fighter. Cote tries to put on a show, but I feel he is more of a gatekeeper at this point. Almeida ran right through Rob Yundt like he wasn’t there. Cote will be much the same. I wouldn’t be surprised if Almeida gets a title shot after submitting Cote in three minutes. Ricardo Almeida by first round submission.

Caleb Newby: Beating the esteemed Mr. Yundt isn’t quite enough to sell me on Almeida’s triumphant return. Cote has been on very strong roll as of late, rattling off four wins in a row. I’d suspect the Cote momentum will continue and he’ll dispatch of Almeida on the feet without having to worry about that crazy “jitz” that Almeida will be bringing to the table. Get the winner of this in there with the winner of Bisping/Leben and I’ll be a happy camper. Patrick Cote via TKO, round one.

David Andrest: Almeida is a strong enough wrestler to get Cote to the ground. There really is nothing else that needs to be written about this fight. Almeida via submission in round 2.

Paul Balsom: Patrick Cote looked pretty awful against the last opponent that wouldn’t just stand and slug with him in Travis Lutter. He got handled by Lutter, who’s not even in the same league as Almeida on the ground in my opinion. I see something very similar happening in this bout. Almeida via submission in round 1

Joe Stevenson vs. Gleison Tibau

Sam Cupitt: This is a dangerous match for Joe Stevenson. Tibau is the type of guy I like to refer to as a “spoiler”. No one really hates him or likes him. They nothing him, but he’s a big strong dude with good wrestling and good BJJ that gives him the ability to beat a lot of talented and more marketable fighters. He almost did it to Tyson Griffin and he could very well do it to Joe Stevenson. Stevenson should be able to pull out this fight with slightly better striking and top control but if I were a betting man I wouldn’t touch this fight with Mauro Ranallo’s pole. Joe Stevenson via unanimous decision.

Adam Morgan: Tibau gave Tyson Griffin one hell of a fight and I expect him to do the same to Stevenson. Stevenson is built in the same manner as Griffin and I expect Tibau’s gameplan to be similar for this opponent. Stevenson, however, has been in big fights, fought through adversity, has top caliber wrestling, and the better striking. He should be able to control the ground game as well as get the best of Tibau on his feet. Joe Stevenson via unanimous decision.

Gary Herman: This could be a decent fight. I thought Tibau clearly won the decision against Tyson Griffin – even though Griffin got the official nod. Stevenson was out of his class against BJ Penn, but what lightweight wouldn’t be? I can easily see this fight going the distance, and Stevenson will have more in the end. Joe Stevenson by unanimous decision.

Caleb Newby: Oh Joe Daddy. Glad to have you back. You’ve been missed and we are all rooting for you (while being entirely journalistically objective, of course). Joe’s good people and a very good fighter and is more than due for a fight to try to erase his bloody loss to Penn from our collective minds. Tibau is no chump and more than has the ability to steal a victory, but I don’t see Stevenson letting this one slip by. Lest we forget, Stevenson is a top caliber 155 lbs. guy who just happened to run into one of the two most dominate fighters in all of MMA right now in B.J. Penn. Penn makes everyone look bad. Expect Joe Daddy to find himself back on the winning track and potentially contend for the lightweight strap if and when Penn leaves for GSP-flavored pastures. Joe Stevenson via unanimous decision.

David Andrest: This is about the most evenly matched fight on the card. Both guys are very good fighters and work to improve their over all games as hard as anyone in the sport. I think Joe Daddy is just a little bit better everywhere. Joe Stevenson by decision.

Paul Balsom: I see Tibau using his size as a pretty big advantage in this bout. I think Tibau will be able to negate Stevenson’s takedowns and will grind out a decision in this one. Another one of Tibau’s biggest weapons will be that Stevenson seems to be completely underestimating him and looking past him to bigger things. Tibau via unanimous decision (29-28)

Josh Koscheck vs. Chris Lytle

Sam Cupitt: This is an interesting fight. It will be interesting to see how confident Koscheck is in his striking. If he comes out with the intention to stay toe to toe with Lytle I think he could get his clock cleaned very quickly. However if he decides to take this fight to the ground he still won’t be out of trouble as the “new” Chris Lytle is a lot more aggressive and I have a feeling he won’t be too worried about giving up position when on the bottom. Whether it be going for submissions or initiating scrambles. If I were Koscheck I would look to implement the strategy GSP had for Serra in there second fight. Constantly changing it up between takedowns and striking could prove to open up more openings on the feet and then easier takedowns. I’m liking what I’ve seen in Chris Lytle of late though and I think he is in the midst of a little winning streak. I’ll pick Lytle to pull off the surprising victory via guillotine choke in the middle of round one after he rocks Koscheck standing. Chris Lytle via submission in round 1.

Adam Morgan: I really like this matchup and it’s a job well done by the UFC for making it happen. Lytle was beating Thiago Alves until he got cut in his last UFC fight so we know that he’s no pushover. He’s a guy who has a very good overall MMA game but isn’t great in any one regard. I expect him to come at Koscheck with a lot of weapons and make Koscheck go back to his bread and butter, which is wrestling. If that happens, I expect the fight to go the same way that Hughes vs. Lytle did. Lots of lay-n-pray. I know Kos wants to be exciting, but a W here is the most important thing for him. Josh Koscheck via unanimous decision.

Gary Herman: This has a chance to be the fight of the night. Both are exciting, action-packed fighters. If you haven’t paid attention to Lytle’s past couple of fights, you are definitely missing something. His wins over Kyle Bradley and Jason Gilliam were picturesque, and he had an excellent chance to beat Thiago Alves before it was stopped due to a cut on Lytle. Meanwhile, Koscheck has really worked to improve his stand-up. It is good – and exciting. No more boring wrestling exhibitions for Koscheck. However, this is a fight that Koscheck should look to use his wrestling skills in. I think ego gets in the way, and Lytle catches him standing for the upset. Chris Lytle by 2nd round TKO.

Caleb Newby: I am really looking forward to this fight. It could be a snooze fest, but I still want to see how it plays out. Lytle is one of those tough-as-nails type guys whose only two weaknesses are sharp elbows and ringside judges. Call me crazy, but I am liking Lytle in the upset… it’s an upset, right? Chris Lytle via submission, round two.

David Andrest: Koscheck has been consistently evolving into a very good mixed martial artist. Much improved stand up combined with wrestling that is truly world class will be too much for Lytle to overcome. Koscheck via TKO round 3.

Paul Balsom: I think that it would behoove Koscheck to be aiming for an early takedown in this one. Not that an early takedown totally saves him from defeat, as Lytle’s submissions are pretty dangerous. But if Koscheck decides to test out his stand up, I think Lytle may punch his face into the ninth row. I think if Koscheck goes with the former, this fight has the potential to look a lot like Lytle’s fight with Matt Hughes. Koscheck can strike from the top and keep Lytle’s submissions at bay to pull off a decision. But what the “hay,” I think we will see flashes off Koscheck’s last fight and he will get tattooed by Lytle hands and wake up with an ice pack on his face. Lytle via KO in round 1.

Tyson Griffin vs. Marcus Aurelio

Sam Cupitt: Apart from the main event this is the best looking fight on the card. This fight could very well end up looking like the sequel to the Guida/Aurelio fight from UFC 74 but I don’t think Griffins stand up and takedowns are as good as Guida’s so this fight could be a whole lot closer. Aurelio looks to have loosened up since his unsuccessful debut. He has been given some lesser dudes to destroy and he seems to be more at ease with his octagonal surroundings. I don’t know who to pick in this fight but I think the safe money is on Griffin to work his way to another unanimous degriffin. Tyson Griffin via unanimous decision.

Adam Morgan: Tyson Griffin has been eeking out decision victories over some of the UFC’s better lightweight talent but this fight will be a real challenge for him. Aurelio has some of the best jiu jitsu in all of MMA and can pull off some of the sickest submissions from some of the most precarious positions. Griffin should not be content to grind this one out on top and the longer he lets the fight go, the more likely it is that Aurelio will find a way to submit him. Griffin isn’t known for finishing and that could very well be his downfall here. Marcus Aurelio via submission, round two.

Gary Herman: This is another of the randomly generated great lightweight fights (see Tibau / Stevenson as well). Griffin never disappoints. This fight is sure to be a clinic on the mat – one in which both fighters are going full speed. The wrestler Griffin will have to watch for submissions, but he knows that going in. Oh yeah, Randy Couture will be in his corner. Griffin by unanimous decision.

Caleb Newby: You just see Tyson Griffin’s name on a card and you know it’s going to be a fantastic and close decision. I’m going to let you in on a little secret when it comes to picking fights. Hopefully it stays true now that I’m making it public. First, if you are confident on your own reasoning with who to pick, go with that. If not, move to Huckaby’s proclaimed “Who does Joe Silva want to win?” methodology. Should you come up with a blank there, ask Adam Morgan who he is taking. Then take the exact opposite. Morgan, you’re my boy, you know that, but your track record lately has been far short of stellar. Tyson Griffin via unanimous decision.

David Andrest: Griffin’s last four fights have gone to decision with a record of 3-1 , after a review of this I must say honestly that record should read 1-3 . In spite of my opinion or yours the facts remain Tyson Griffin has recently been part of some very close fights and seems to find himself on the winning end more often than not. Aurelio has never been finished, and all 5 of his losses come via decision. Aurelio needs to finish this fight if he hopes to win. I don’t see that happening. Griffin via decision.

Paul Balsom: Though some are pretty psyched about this match-up, I think that this has the potential to be kind of a bummer. I think this one stays on the ground for the duration and we see some top work from Griffin and submission attempts from Aurelio with Griffin being able to negate them all. Griffin via split decision

Gabriel Gonzaga vs. Justin McCully

Sam Cupitt: I think Gonzaga prefers fighting when the public doesn’t care about him too much. He has had a whole lot of expectation heaped onto his hairy shoulders ever since he “cro copped” Cro Cop but now that has seemed to have subsided since being broken down by both Couture and Werdum. McCully is a tough dude but I think this fight will be a return to form for Gonzaga who should put on a repeat performance of his match against Carmelo Marrero. Gabriel Gonzaga via submission (arm bar from mount) in round 1.

Adam Morgan: This is simply a chance for Gonzaga to get another victory under his belt and start climbing the heavyweight ranks once again. McCully is a one dimensional wrestler with not a lot of other tools in his belt. Gonzaga may not have the wrestling to contend with him but the rest of his MMA tools are so much better. His standup has really come along, his power is ridiculous, and his jiu jitsu is Mundial world champion level. I don’t see McCully being able to break him down like Couture or Werdum did. Gabriel Gonzaga via TKO, round two.

Gary Herman: I’m surprised this fight isn’t on the main card. It has a chance to be very good. Both are skilled fighters. Both are good on the ground. I am concerned about what Gonzaga has left mentally after losing two huge fights to Couture and Fabricio Werdum. He gassed early against Werdum. McCully is not getting tired. McCully should look to tire out Gonzaga as much as possible. If McCully gets him down and works the ground and pound, I don’t know that Gonzaga can come back. He’s never shown that he can. McCully by unanimous decision.

Caleb Newby: Ok, now THIS is a fight the UFC’s “future of the heavyweight division” should be able to win. First Couture, then Werdum… Gonzaga is quickly running out of chances. Fortunately for him, not as quickly as the UFC is running out of heavyweights. *rim shot* HEY-OH! Still, McCully shouldn’t be a problem for Gonzaga. Gabriel Gonzaga via TKO, round two.

David Andrest: McCully has looked good against questionable opposition recently. Gonzaga lost to a champion and a guy that is going to be champion. My main concern with Gonzaga is his cardio, he gassed like his name was Alistair Overeem in his last fight. This fight is more about Gonzaga than McCully as I believe the only person in the Octogon that will beat Gonzaga is Gonzaga ( I’d make a ref joke here but they have taken enough crap this year). Napao via knockout in round 2.

Paul Balsom: If Gonzaga doesn’t submit McCully within the first round of this fight, his stock drops significantly in my mind. McCully has trouble with Antoni Hardonk’s “submission attacks”, so Gonzaga should have no problem. Gonzaga via submission in round 1.

Cole Miller vs. Jorge Gurgel

Sam Cupitt: Jorge Gurgel is like Carrot Top. He likes to do stand-up but he really shouldn’t. I mean his striking isn’t terrible it’s just not necessary considering the level of BJJ he possesses. All indications are though that Gurgel won’t be shooting any time soon which should be news to the ears of the lanky Cole Miller. Miller’s stand-up isn’t anything to write home about either but he does have a large reach advantage which he should use to mess up Gurgel’s face all the way to a unanimous decision victory. Cole Miller via unanimous decision.

Adam Morgan: I’ll take Cole Miller in this one simply due to the fact that Jorge Gurgel continues to say that he’ll stick with his gameplan of standing and trading with a taller fighter with a ridiculous reach advantage. Gurgel hardly ever uses his strengths during his fights, namely his top shelf BJJ. And when he does try to use them, he seems to telegraph his submissions. Good on Gurgel for wanting to make his fights exciting, but it’s not doing much for his record. I think Cole Miller gets back on track as someone to look out for in a year or two with a quality win over Gurgel. Cole Miller via unanimous decision.

Gary Herman: Why do we keep seeing Jorge Gurgel in the UFC? Sure, he’s 3-2 in the big show, but he’s never faced anyone of note. He’s never finished a fight. And he’s never looked impressive in a fight. He is what he is and he’s not getting better. Cole Miller has potential to improve and is on the way up. Miller will look to stand for the duration of the fight while Gurgel will look to take the fight down (regardless of what Gurgel says now). Gurgel has too much heart to be knocked out though – so the referee will save him. Cole Miller by third round TKO.

Caleb Newby: I like Cole Miller. I did an interview with him on another site awhile back, and he was sharing his love for obscure Japanese video games and why Raphael was the best ninja turtle. Just wanted to get that out of the way. As for the fight, I am hard pressed to pick Gurgel in any fight these days. Maybe he has turned the corner in his career but I’m not sold. Miller has size, reach, and adaptability to his gameplaning. Before I forget, I need to give Sam props for his Carrot Top line, that was solid. Tip of the hat to you good sir, and a loss for Rich Franklin’s best friend. Cole Miller via unanimous decision.
David Andrest: I could run the numbers, and look at similar opponents, call trainers and super knowledgeable insiders but there is only one fact that anyone needs to be aware of. Cole Miller has a victory over Andy Wang and that alone is proof enough to me he will be too much for Gurgel to handle…seriously. Miller via decision.

Paul Balsom: Cole Miller is going to blast Gurgel with a head kick and be on top for the duration. Gurgel seems to be able to stay in the UFC no matter what. I’m not freaking out about this match-up. Miller will make up for his previous loss against Jeremy Stephens and get back on the winning track here. Also, Gurgel’s hair is super lame. Miller via unanimous decision.

Melvin Guillard vs. Dennis Siver

Sam Cupitt: Ah welcome back Melvin we’ve missed you. Well someone has because you’re back. Guillard is just like your average presidential candidate. He promises so much but will inevetiably fail to deliver on most of it. President Guillard (that sounds too weird) has a nice little historical battle on his hands here as he faces a traditional German adversary in Siver. But unlike, history this is a war Guillard won’t win. Ah screw it, I’ve made this way too complicated. Siver wins this by Guillard brain fart. Dennis Siver via TKO in round 2.

Adam Morgan: I really don’t want to pick Guillard in this fight but I have to. Siver has shown me nothing so far in the UFC that would lead me to believe that he’s capable of taking the fight from Guillard. Siver is no Rich Clementi on the ground and as long as Melvin can keep it standing he should punish Siver on the feet. Melvin Guillard via TKO, round two.

Gary Herman: The enigmatic Guillard returns. If Guillard could bring his brain up to where his skill is, he could be a force and a marketable fighter. It just doesn’t appear that is going to happen against the upper echelon of fighters. Siver, however, isn’t in the upper echelon. He doesn’t have the strength to stop Guillard from pushing the fight for as long as the fight lasts – which won’t be long. Guillard by first round KO.

Caleb Newby: On Melvin. With all of the material you give everyone to work with, is it even possible I can talk about this fight without tarnishing the respectability of this website? No. No it is not. But I can pick you to win. Melvin Guillard via TKO, round one.

David Andrest: Hate on the kid all you want, Melvin Guillard is one ground game away from being an incredible fighter. I have been led to believe he is working on that ground game, and honestly expect him to show improvement. I’m not quite sure he is going to have to in this fight. Guillard via knockout in round 1.

Paul Balsom: Denis Siver via submission and severe tea-bagging.

Justin Buchholz vs. Corey Hill

Sam Cupitt: This is an interesting fight which should show how far Hill has come along in his striking. Buchholz had an unsuccessful UFC debut against Matt Wiman back at UFC Fight Night 12 and things don’t get much easier against the project that is Corey Hill. Hill will win this in a very scary manner. Corey Hill via TKO in round 1.

Adam Morgan: Corey Hill is a scary fighter at lightweight. 6’4” and 155 lbs. is something that’s really unheard of. His last fight was a mauling and I expect Buchholz to be dispensed of in the same manner. If Hill has Miletich’s blessing as the best prospect out of his camp then why would you bet against him? As long as Hill keeps his hands up, uses his reach, and doesn’t get knocked out by Buchholz then he should end this one quickly. Corey Hill via TKO, round two.

Gary Herman: I am curious to see Corey Hill. He had a ton of potential on The Ultimate Fighter. Now, we can see what he’s done with it. Hill will look to keep the fight standing even though he has some wrestling skills. Buchholz is going to have his hands full with a fighter as tall as Hill. I expect Hill to be aggressive in going for the quick finish. Corey Hill by first round TKO.

Caleb Newby: 6’4″ is insane at 155 lbs. The reach advantage throughout Corey’s career is going to be a wonderful advantage to always have to work with. What I wouldn’t give to see Hill vs. Sherk. Mostly for the staredown. I’m going to be auto picking Hill in his fights until he reaches some mid to upper-mid tier talent in the UFC. Then it should become interesting. Corey Hill via TKO, round two.

David Andrest: Buchholz will win this fight. I’ll go even bolder and say Buchholz will win with a first round KO of Corey Hill. To quote the man ” I went out all out for this fight and hired Snoop Dogg as a sparring partner because they have identical body types.” Buchholz via KO in round 1.

Paul Balsom: I don’t know about this pick, but I’d like to think that Corey Hill will exploit the massive size difference here and use his explosive pace to maul Buchholz. If what everybody at Miletich Fighting Systems says about Hill is true, he is going to knock Buchholz into another dimension and shoot to the top of the lightweight division over the next year or two. Hill via TKO in round 2.