Travicity
12-17-2010, 05:46 AM
by MMAjunkie.com Staff on Dec 16, 2010 at 8:55 pm ET
GLENDALE, Ariz. – MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) is on scene and reporting live from tonight's historic and promotion-ending WEC 53 event.
Tonight's show, which features a championship doubleheader, takes place at Jobing.com Arena in Glendale, Ariz., and airs live on Versus.
Follow along with our round-by-round updates and official results beginning at 6 p.m. ET (4 p.m. MT local time) for the preliminary card and 9 p.m. ET for the main card.
Tonight's event features a lightweight title fight between champion Benson Henderson and challenger Anthony Pettis. Additionally, bantamweight champ Dominick Cruz tangles with Scott Jorgensen. With tonight's show being the final one in WEC history due its merger with the UFC, the Henderson-Pettis winner gets an immediate UFC lightweight title shot, and the Cruz-Jorgensen winner will be crowned the UFC's first-ever 135-pound champ.
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RENAN BARAO VS. CHRIS CARIASO
Round 1 - It's the first fight of the WEC's final event, and Barao looks to keep his unreal 23-fight win streak intact in this bantamweight affair. Referee Neil Sarembock in charge of the action. Barao misses an early high kick, and Cariaso lands one of his own. Both fighters flashing hard kicks early. Off-balance Cariaso hits the deck, and Barao pushes into his guard. Cariaso secures the arm and thinks armbar, but Barao pulls free. Barao casually posting with his hand on the matt, and Cariaso looks for another armbar. Barao postures and advances to side control. Two minutes in. Cariaso spins in an moves back to half-guard. Barao spins for a kimura and Cariaso rolls. Barao transitions with him and takes the back. Figure-four for Barao across the body. He fires a few punches in from the right side as he looks for an opening for the choke. Cariaso spins in, and Barao takes mount. A few elbows come in, but there's another roll. Barao sinks in the rear-naked choke from the back. It looks deep, but Cariaso fights it. He's stuck, and as courageous as he wants to be, he must tap. Renan Barao def. Chris Cariaso via submission (rear-naked choke) - Round 1, 3:47.
YURI ALCANTARA VS. RICARDO LAMAS
Round 1 - Alcantara makes his WEC debut, while Lamas tries to win his fourth-straight in this lightweight bout. Referee Ron Nation oversees the action. Alcantara takes the center and opens with three punches behind a kick. Lamas defends well and resets. Alcantara continues to stalk and punches into a clinch against the cage. Lamas comfortable and spins to escape. Alcantara moving slowly forward as Lamas bounces. Alcantara slips a punch and fires two and a kick before moving into the clinch again. Lamas circles off easily. Two minutes in, and they break. Alcantara engages quickly and lands a knee, but Lamas closes the gap again and presses in. Knees traded. Lamas appears to be dictating the clinch, though he's hardly taking advantage of it. He finally releases after little action. Alcantara stalks patiently, and a leaping left hook sends Lamas crashing to the floor. Alcantara pounces with three more punches, but Lamas was already cold against the fence. Alcantara walks away before Nation can even get to him. Yuri Alcantara def. Ricardo Lamas via knockout (punches) - Round 1, 3:26.
DANNY CASTILLO VS. WILL KERR
Round 1 - With a few recent losses from each fighter, these two lightweights are likely fighting for their spot on the UFC roster. Referee Herb Dean in the cage. Castillo takes the center. Kerr leaps in with a flying knee that just misses. He immediately switches to a guillotine and falls to his back. It looks tight early, but Castillo pops his head out. Kerr stays busy on the bottom and latches on to Castillo's left leg. Castillo remains calm as he tries to stack his opponent, but the leg is not yet free. Castillo starts firing punches to the body, then the head. Kerr's dome is against the canvas, and Castillo's punches are resonating in the arena. Three connect flush, and Kerr is out. Castillo walks away as Dean calls the fight. Danny Castillo def. Will Kerr via knockout (punches) - Round 1, 1:25.
KEN STONE VS. EDDIE WINELAND
Round 1 - Stone makes his WEC debut, while Wineland a former WEC champ, eyes his fourth-straight win. Referee Neil Sarembock returns to the cage. Wineland moves forward quickly, but Stone is ready with leg kicks. Wineland showing lots of head movement as he holds the center. Stone circling and looking to use his legs early. Stone delivers a straight but catches a snapping counter that pops his head back. Crowd likes the early striking. Stone shoots in. Wineland stuffs it, and Stone leaps to standing guard. Stone wraps his right arm around the neck and has a figure-four around the waist. Wineland walks slowly over to his corner and pushes Stone against the cage. He sits there for a moment before launching forward into the canvas. Stone is out when he hits the mat. Wineland gets in a few punches that are elementary. Fight is over. Eddie Wineland def. Ken Stone via knockout (slam) - Round 1, 2:11.
Stone remained motionless on the canvas for several minutes and was carted out on a stretcher. MMAjunkie.com will have updates as soon as they become available.
IVAN MENJIVAR VS. BRAD PICKETT
Round 1 - One-time UFC fighter and nine-year veteran Menjivar makes his WEC debut, while Pickett looks to return to the win column after recently having a nine-fight win streak snapped. Referee Ron Nation oversees the bantamweight bout. Pickett jabs early, but Menjivar kicks him in the body. Pickett stays on the jab, but Menjivar counters well. Pickett trying to change levels. Menjivar launches into a spinning backfist, but Pickett ducks and earns the takedown. Menjivar looks for an armbar underneath, but Picketts pulls away and returns to the feet. Pickett timing his strikes better and avoiding the counters, but as they move into the clinch, Menjivar does deliver a few short shots of his own. Two minutes in. Pickett digs to the body with a combination, but another shot is met with a knee. Flurry by both, and Pickett drops in for a takedown. Menjivar stuffs this one, and Pickett pulls away. Menjivar lands a partially-blocked high kick. Both guys trading nice leather in impressive flurries. More great action. Menjivar delivers an uppercut and a knee from the clinch. Pickett answers back with a three-punch combo. Less than a minute, and Pickett ducks in for another takedown. It works. Pickett postures and lands a few big shots on top before the bell - the first time we'll see a second round all night. MMAjunkie.com gives the first to Pickett, 10-9.
Round 2 - Pickett returns to the jab. An inside leg kick hits the cup, but Menjivar back to action quickly. Menjivar lands a glancing high kick. Pickett hits the ribs, and a stiff jab staggers Menjivar slightly. Menjivar connects with a straight. Both guys again swing freely in the pocket. Big shots land from both fighters in the toe-to-toe exchange. Menjivar whiffs on another spinning backfist. Two minutes in. Both fighters working a jab. Right from Menjivar staggers Pickett. He drops for a takedown, but Menjivar stuffs it. Another right from Menjivar. Pickett is wobbled and in trouble. Somehow he remains upright and fires back. All heart from Pickett, and he actually earns a takedown. He'll try to regain his wits on top, as he was getting absolutely blasted. Menjivar with guard, and Pickett finds room to strike. He postures and pulls free from a triangle choke attempt. He stands, and as Menjivar does, too, Pickett nails him with a hammerfist and jumps the back. He's high on the back, and he tries for an armbar as he slides off. Menjivar spins free, and they both stand. Great sequence. Back on the feet with less than a minute. More bombs from Menjivar. Pickett trading well. Menjivar thinks standing guillotine but lets it go. Round ends, and it was a hell of a five minutes. Pickett had great moments, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Menjivar on damage, 10-9.
Round 3 - Pickett returns to the jab. Both guys bouncing, looking as though they'll have gas for the final round. Menjivar working an effective straight. Into the clinch. Pickett drops for a takedown, but it's not there. They reset on the feet. Menjivar lands an uppercut. Pickett moving well, but Menjivar really has his timing down perfect. Pickett continues to jab, but Menjivar will answer with two and three punches. Menjivar holds the center. Halfway in, and the round is up for grabs. Pickett lands a big left hook. He drops Menjivar to a knee with a follow up. Leaping knee from Pickett. Menjivar gathers his wits and answers with a knee of his own. Right hand over the top for Pickett. Menjivar bleeding over the left eye, and he's pawing at it. One minute left. Both fighters obviously tiring, but still trading. Menjivar lands two, Pickett answers. It's toe-to-toe again. Menjivar kicks hard to the body. Right hands traded again. Pickett leaps in with a knee, and both fighters wing punches until the final bell. Incredible stuff. Good stuff from both, but MMAjunkie.com sees the final round for Pickett, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 29-28. Brad Pickett def. Ivan Menjivar via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).
SHANE ROLLER VS. JAMIE VARNER
Round 1 - Important lightweight affair, and referee Herb Dean draws the assignment. Varner takes the center and lands a right to the body. Roller circles on the outside, and Varner aims to the gut again. Quick hands from Varner early with shots to the body and then up top. Varner with a very wide stance, and Roller is content to trade with him early. Varner lands an overhand right. Roller does pop a stiff jab, and he looks a bit annoyed as he picks up the pace. Varner retreats and resets. Varner kicks to the thigh. Two minutes in. Varner's right eye reddened, but he fires off a high kick. Roller is dropped from a straight, but he pops up, scores a takedown and immediately scrambles to the back as Varner stands. Varner controls the right arm in front of him. Roller has a figure-four bodylock around the waist. Varner leaps to the side, but Roller doesn't blink as they hit the canvas. Roller sneaks the left arm underneath the chin and squeezes. Varner tries to fight it, but Roller has it in deep. Varner is forced to tap. Shane Roller def. Jamie Varner via submission (rear-naked choke) - Round 1, 3:55.
MMAjunkie.com has learned that according to attending doctors, Stone left the arena conscious, breathing and moving. Initial tests suggest all is fine, though he is being kept for observation at this time.
DANNY DOWNES VS. TIEQUAN ZHANG
Round 1 - Downes looks for his first WEC win, as Zhang hopes to stay unbeaten in his career. Referee Ron Nation oversees WEC 53's final preliminary fight. Zhang takes the center. Downes tries to use his range early, but Zhang walks through it with punches. They clinch and scramble to the floor. Zhang tries to lock up the neck but settles for a beautiful hip toss that sees Downes' legs hit the top of the cage on the way down. Zhang in a top crucifix early, but he slides to the back in a scramble. Zhang lies on his back with Downes in front. Both hooks are in, though it's an open rear-mount. Zhang tries hard to work in the rear-naked choke, but Downes keeps his chin tucked. Downes rolls, and Zhang switches to the figure-four. Zhang still working the choke, but Downes' persistence pays off as he turns in and takes top position. Halfway in. Zhang with full guard underneath. Downes postures and returns to the feet. Zhang a little slow to follow. Downes jabs up the middle. Zhang fires big sweeping hooks. One lands. Zhang moves in and tries to capitalize, but Downes slips around the back and looks for the choke on the feet. Zhang works free and looks for a takedown. Downes shifts his weight and winds up on top. Downes looks to capitalize, but Zhang grabs the arm and extends it with what looks to be a tight armbar. Downes somehow keeps his hands locked to prevent the finish and lasts until the bell. Good stuff in the round, and MMAjunkie.com sees it for Zhang, 10-9.
Round 2 - Downes again walks forward with jabs, but Zhang fires in powerful hooks. Zhang shoots in for a single-leg takedown. Downes defends well early, but Zhang eventually sucks him off the cage and onto the floor. Downes works back up, and Zhang settles for falling to his back. Zhang lands an upkick, but Downes using his length to punch from the top. He moves in, and Zhang scrambles. Downes takes the back and secures a figure-four lock around the waist. Two minutes in, and Zhang ties up the arms well. Downes lands a few short rights to the head. Zhang working side to side, trying to escape. Downes keeps him in front. Chants of "Danny" fill the arena. Zhang finally spins in, and Downes takes half-mount. Downes lands a few punches form the top but elects to return to this feet. He moves quickly back down and tries to take the back. Zhang defends that, but he takes more damage from the top. Downes stands again and kicks the leg. Downes punches as he passes the guard, and Zhang again rolls to his knees rather than work from his back. Zhang looks very tired, and Downes continues to press in. Big elbows in the closing seconds. Zhang is bloodied over his left eye, and he looks exhausted as he rises. MMAjunkie.com gives it to Downes, 10-9.
Round 3 - Zhang practically falls to his back on an early low attack from Downes. Crowd boos. He moves back up and delivers a few more of his patented hooks, but again goes willingly to the floor when Downes clinches. Zhang with his head against the cage, and Downes is pressing in from the top. Short punches, and Zhang tries to tie up from underneath. Downes postures, and Zhang answers with upkicks. Downes moves back down, and Zhang gives up his back again. He spins back and forth underneath, but it only results in Downes on his back again. Downes holds the bodylock, and the chants of "Danny" return. This time they're louder. Zhang again showing capable defense by tying up the arms, but he can't escape. Zhang spins in, but he doesn't clear his left arm, and Downes is handed an arm-triangle choke. He locks it in, but he can't clear out of half-guard to finish. Zhang hangs tight and spins again. Zhang scrambles free in the closing seconds, but he's going to taste defeat for the first time. Bell sounds, and Downes celebrates what should be a clear-cut win. MMAjunkie.com awards the final round to Downes, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 29-28. Danny Downes def. Tiequan Zhang via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28).
BART PALASZEWSKI VS. KAMAL SHALORUS
Round 1 - Referee Neil Sarembock in charge of the evening's first Versus-televised bout. Important contest with lightweight roster spots at a real premium with the UFC-WEC merger coming shortly. Palaszewski circles right as Shalorus takes the center. Big one-two from Shalorus. Palaszewski against the cage, and Shalorus lands more big punches. He looks for a lateral drop and sends Palaszewski to the canvas. Palaszewski takes full guard underneath. Shalorus delivers big right hands to the body and head. Palaszewski's head against the cage, and Shalorus is dropping bombs to the body. Palaszewski spins for an armbar. Shalorus pulls out of the hold and delivers four punches from his feet. Shalorus stands over Palaszewski and delivers heavy shots as Palaszewski looks for option underneath. There aren't any. Hammerfists from Shalorus, and Palaszewski is warned for grabbing the cage. Two minutes left, and Shalorus pushes down into the guard. Palaszewski starts to control the wrist, and Shalorus pulls free. Another warning for Palaszewski. Shalrous lets Palaszewski stand. breathing heavily, but he fires a few jabs and low kicks. One minute remains. Shalorus kicks low, as well. Both fighters trading kicks in the final seconds. Round ends, and MMAjunkie.com sees it 10-9 for Shalorus.
Round 2 - Palaszewski lively early. Shalorus kicking low again as well, but his corner wants him to finish with punches. Slower pace as Shalorus stalks, but he's cut off the cage. Palaszewski shifts left and away from the fence. Shalorus walks him to the cage again and wings heavy hooks. Shalorus nearly falls over with a big right hand that misses. Crowd wants more action. Shalorus kicks low, and Palaszewski answers high. Palaszewski much more comfortable than in the opening minutes of the fight, but he's yet to be real effective. Meanwhile, Shalorus not firing off. Shalorus walks through a few punches and looks for a takedown, but Palaszewski stuffs it. Shalorus dropping his hands a bit, and Palaszewski sees it and lands a high kick. Traded low kicks. Shalorus ducks in for a single and gets it. Butterfly guard underneath. Striking was pretty close, and the takedown may prove very relevant. Palaszewski ties up the arms with overhooks from the bottom. Shalorus walks him to the cage. Shalorus fires off seven punches but lets Palaszewski up. Palaszewski falls back to his butt in a flurry, but he rises quickly and signals he wants more. Round ends, and crowd wants the pace up. MMAjunkie.com give the round to Shalorus, 10-9.
Round 3 - Both fighters busier early on. Shalorus lands two punches on the tail end of a combo. Palaszewski still relying on low kicks, but Shalorus firing those big hooks over the top. Palaszewski lands a jab and a counter left, but they aren't matching the power of Shalorus. Two takedown attempts from Shalorus, and the second works. Palaszewski pops right back up though and lands a knee. Two minutes in. Shalorus still throwing big power shots Palaszewski working low kicks and combinations. Shalorus shoots in, and Palaszewski stuffs it. He grabs a guillotine, but he falls off and lands on his back. Full guard underneath. Shalorus looked to be slowing a bit on the feet, but Palaszewski won't be able to capitalize here. Shalorus advances to half-mount. Palaszewski works back to guard. Both fighters jockeying for positions. Palaszewski eventually works to his feet and lands a nice snapping high kick. Less than a minute. Shalorus is tired, and he eats a big knee. Palaszewski giving chase as Shalorus retreats. Palaszewski misses a flying knee at the end, but he won't get the finish. MMAjunkie.com will give Palaszewski the nod in the final frame, 10-9, as Shalorus did little with his time on top, and he only got there from a missed submission. Nevertheless, MMAjunkie.com awards the fight to Shalorus, 29-28. Kamal Shalorus def. Bart Palaszewski via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28).
DONALD CERRONE VS. CHRIS HORODECKI
Round 1 - Another big lightweight fight between two exciting competitors. Referee Herb Dean oversees the action. Cerrone with a quick jab, but Horodecki fires off a combo. Cerrone tries to punch from distance, but Horodecki leaping in to negate the reach. Horodecki catches a low kick to the cup, and he'll take a breather. Both jab on the restart. Horodecki mixing in kicks, and Cerrone decides to do the same. Cerrone shoots in and sets up in side control.Horodecki scrambles up and away in a slick transition. Horodecki lands a jab. He's staying busy and beating Cerrone to the punch. Horodecki lands a right to the chin. Cerrone tries the Thai clinch, but there's nothing there. Horodecki walks into a kick, but he's unaffected. Cerrone lands a lead left, but Horodecki counters well. Jab from Cerrone, but Horodecki working combos. Horodecki lands shots to the body. Spinnign back kick from Horodecki. Cerrone looking for single punches, though he does mix in a low kick. Horodecki closes the distance and lans a takedown. Cerrone pops right back up and lands a high kick in the scramble. Horodecki pushes Cerrone down again with one minute left. Cerrone tries to work a submission from his back, but Horodecki pulls away and back to his feet. Cerrone shoots in and takes the back in a scramble. Horodecki ties him up until the bell, and the round ends there. Close round, but MMAjunkie.com sees it 10-9 for Horodecki.
Round 2 - Horodecki continues to duck the punches and land to the body. He earns a takedown, but Cerrone works immediately to an omo plata. It looks deep as he stacks it up, but Horodecki spins with it and somehow stays safe. Cerrone keeps control from his back when Horodecki escapes, and "Cowboy" shifts to a triangle choke attempt. He's a little off to the side, and Horodecki survives. Cerrone patient underneath as he re-adjusts. Horodecki is certainly trapped, but Cerrone has to find the angle. He continues to shift and finally gets the hold on properly. He squeezes tight, and Horodecki is forced to tap. Donald Cerrone def. Chris Horodecki via submission (triangle choke) - Round 2, 2:43.
WEC officials confirm Ken Stone was released from the hospital with no major injuries and is currently en route back to the arena.
CHAMP DOMINICK CRUZ VS. SCOTT JORGENSEN
Round 1 - WEC champion Cruz and top challenger Jorgensen will determine the UFC's first-ever bantamwieght champion in the evening's co-main event. Referee Neil Sarembock oversees the action. Both fighters bouncing early and seeking angles. Cruz feigns a few kicks. Both jabbing, but Cruz hits the first significant combo. Jorgensen jabbing and trying t unravel the Cruz mystery. Cruz as manic as ever. Left for Cruz, and he lands a three-punch combo. Corner wants Jorgensen to look for a takedown. Cruz working side to side, popping punches. He lands a knee, but Jorgensen gets into a clinch and slips around to the back. Cruz turns in and slips away with nary a takedown attempt. Halfway in. Cruz misses an uppercut and eats a counter, but he returns with a leg kick. Nice outside leg kick from Crus and a popping jab. Jorgensen trying to scrap, but Cruz is outboxing him. Jorgensen does work in a jab. Cruz bobbing and weaving and pops an uppercut. Jorgensen takes a front kick to the gut and pushes into the clinch. Cruz defends against the cage and pushes Jorgensen away. MOre leg kicks from Cruz. Jorgensen finally lands a takedown and slips to the back, but Cruz feels it and rolls over to top. Round ends, and MMAjunie.com sees the first for Cruz, 10-9.
Round 2 - Jorgensen shoots in early and briefly gets a takedown, but Cruz is immediately back up. Jorgensen pops a jab. Cruz answers with a stiffer version. Cruz doing his thing, picking Jorgensen apart on the feet. Jorgensen's corner wants him to fire combinations and brawl. Cruz continues to land.Cruz lands a jab and scores a takedown as he catches Jorgensen off-guard. Two minutes in. Jorgensen working a closed guard underneath and trying to lands few punches underneath. Cruz also finding a little room to work and attacking with punches and elbows. Jorgensen breaks the guard and sits up against the cage. Cruz continues to press in and create problems. Crowd wants the action on the feet, but Cruz is staying busy in spurts from the top. Punches coming in from all angles, even on the floor. Jorgensen signals to Sarembock that he's OK, but he's offering little in the way of offense. Jorgensen finally works to his feet in the closing seconds. Cruz bleeding from the bridge of his nose. Shouldn't be an issue, though. Round ends, and MMAjunkie.com sees it for Cruz, 10-9.
Round 3 - Both fighters still lively, and they rush to the center. Cruz dancing around, and a right hand sends Jorgensen to the floor. He pops up immediately. Jorgensen still moving forward, but he's not closing the space. Cruz mixes in a few high kicks, and a low kick spins Jorgensen around. Jorgensen holding the center, but Cruz keeping things at his range. More head movement from Cruz, more movement. Cruz firing off combinations at will. Jorgensen sneaking in a jab here and there, but Cruz working leg kicks and knees as well. Jorgensen's corner, especially Joe Warren, wants Jorgensen to brawl, but he just can't catch up to Cruz. Rolling head for Cruz, and he lands a left. Ducks under and takes Jorgensen to the floor. Jorgensen works from his back, and he does sweep in the closing seconds, but Cruz feels it and scrambles to his feet immediately. They clinch briefly, and the round ends, and MMAjunkie.com gives it again to Cruz, 10-9.
Round 4 - Jorgensen will likely need a finish now, as these rounds haven't appeared to be at all questionable. Cruz tees off with a big right. He comes right back with a combination that lands, as well. Cruz gets another takedown, and his corner lets him know he has to get back to his feet. Jorgensen scoots back to the cage and tries to pull away, but Cruz is relentless with his pressure. Not as much damage as in earlier rounds, but Jorgensen is absolutely trapped against the fence. Jorgensen scrambles up, and Cruz tries to slip the back. Jorgensen spins and pulls free, and the reset on the feet two minutes in. Cruz lands a short elbow, and Jorgensen spins off and pushes his opponent into the cage. Cruz quickly reverses and pulls away. Cruz returns to kicks and knees. His mouth is open, but he's still finding angles for his punches. Another takedown for Cruz. Jorgensen works up before absorbing any damage. Cruz kicks hard to the body. He whiffs on three leaping punches, but he's still moving forward. Another takedown in the closing seconds, and Jorgensen looks tired. Cruz lands a few more punches from the top, and it's another round for Cruz on the MMAjunkie.com card, 10-9.
Round 5 - Jorgensen's right eye busted up pretty good, and he has to go for broke. Jorgensen working behind a jab, but Cruz still slipping and firing off counter right hands. Cruz also not looking to cruise home, as he's still doing his thing. Jorgensen is game in his effort, and he's certainly not wilting, but Cruz is absolutely working him over. Cruz kicks to the body. Two minutes in. Cruz throwing combinations all over the cage. Jorgensen finally catches up and earns a takedown. Halfway in. Cruz immediately scrambles to his feet. Jorgensen had a bodylock but let it go. Cruz fires a Superman punch and then rushes forward with a driving takedown that puts Jorgensen on his back yet again. Jorgensen works an open guard and tries to create some space to stand, but Cruz continues to drive into his opponent. Less than a minute. Some of the crowd wants a stand-up, but there's no reason. Cruz doing enough. Cruz decides to stand in the clinch seconds, and he lands a leaping knee and a combination. He'll defend his WEC title and claim the UFC's, as well, following a masterful performance. MMAjunkie.com awards Cruz the final round, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 50-45. Dominick Cruz def. Scott Jorgensen via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to retain his WEC bantamweight title and become the first-ever UFC bantamweight champion.
CHAMP BENSON HENDERSON VS. ANTHONY PETTIS
Round 1 - It's the final fight in WEC history, and Henderson and Pettis will determine the promotion's final lightweight champion, as well as the No. 1 contender in the UFC. Referee Herb Dean the third man in the cage. Pettis bounces in the corner, Henderson calm. Henderson takes the center, and Pettis dances cautiously around. Switch kick from Henderson blocked. Pettis kicks low. Pettis also misses a switch kick. Henderson punches, but it's a Pettis counter left that lands. Both fighters cautious. Chants of "Ben" fill the arena. Henderson lands a low kick to end a combo and moves into the clinch. Tight bodylock, and Pettis defends against the cage. Knees to the thigh for Henderson, and we're halfway in. Henderson finally earns the trip, and Pettis takes guard with his back against the cage. Henderson presses in from his knees an lands a few short lefts. Pettis tries to slip back into a triangle choke, but Henderson postures out. Pettis kicks him away, and we reset with 80 seconds left. Pettis has a high kick blocked. Pettis lands a front kick. Henderson leaps in with another takedown, and he gets it on a second effort. He lands a few punches from the top in the closing seconds and claims the round on the MMAjunkie.com card, 10-9.
Round 2 - Pettis takes the center. Henderson kicks to the body as he circles right. Pettis keeps a low profile and lands a right hand. Henderson hits the deck, and Pettis tries to take the back. He gets there briefly and kicks to the face. Henderson grabs a kimura grip on the feet, and Pettis dumps him to defend. They scramble back up, and Henderson presses in against the cage. Pettis light on his feet and trying to keep his tole as the aggressor. Two minutes in. Henderson jabbing from distance. Henderson misses an overhand left but avoids the counters. He pushes in again. Nothing in the clinch, and they reset. Henderson retreating, but he lands a left hook. Henderson kicks to the body. Leaping knee from Pettis misses, and Henderson presses in again. Pettis defends, and Henderson resets. Low kick catches Henderson on the cup, but he wants back in instantly. Henderson lands a high. Pettis slowing his attack in the closing parts of this round, and it may cost him. Very close round, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Henderson, 10-9.
Round 3 - Pettis again takes the center, but it's Henderson that open with the low kick. Henderson really working to counterstrike. Traded punches from both look crisp. Pettis shoves Henderson to the floor and scrambles to the back. Henderson stands, and Pettis is hanging on upside down. He's high, but he has the leg hooked. Henderson goes to a knee, and Pettis readjusts. Henderson defending well from the front, but Pettis is in good shape on the back. Henderson trying to use the cage to peel Pettis off, but the challenger is staying tight. Two minutes remain. Pettis punching to the ribs and head. He wants Henderson to let go of the wrist, but Henderson wisely does not. More punches from the back. it's a stalemate, but Pettis won't give up the back. More punches to the body and head. One minute left in this battle of stamina. Henderson has been supporting his opponent's weight for most of the round. Henderson takes to elbowing Pettis' right leg but does not let the arm under his chin. Closing seconds, and Pettis lets go and kicks the head. Entertaining fight through three. MMAjunkie.com gives the third to Pettis, 10-9.
Round 4 - Henderson more aggressive to open. He flurries and shoots. Pettis tries to graba D'arce but slips off. Henderson presses in from the top. Pettis kicks his legs up, and Henderson shucks them off. He spins to the back as Pettis turtles. Henderson grabs a bodylock around the waist and rolls to his own back. Rear-naked choke looks seep. Crowd on its feet. Pettis somehow peels off the arm. Two minutes in. Pettis calm, but he's now in a bad spot with Henderson glued to his back. Petti spins quickly in, and now he jumps the back in a scramble. Henderson calm and walks to the cage. Pettis isn't firm on the back, and he lets go. Henderson pushes him away. Less than two minutes. Front kick from Henderson. Henderson kicks the body but eats a stiff counter right. Pettis still moving forward, and they clash with strikes. Pettis walks into a right hand but stuffs a shit. Pettis grabs a guillotine on the right-hand side. He's in half-gaurd. He adjusts to full guard. Time winding down, and Henderson makes it. Another great round that had solid moments from both fighters. Tough to score, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Henderson, 10-9.
Round 5 - Fight could easily be up in the air. Early flurry from Pettis. Henderson takes a shot to the cup and needs a quick break. Doesn't take much. Henderson kicks twice to the body, but Pettis counters over the top both times. Pettis is shucking and jiving and delivers another punch. Halfway in. Pettis shuffling his feet, and Henderson slips to the floor. Pettis moves in and tries to get the back but can't. He stands and moves away. Henderson shoots, and Pettis leaps in the air. Henderson sticks to a single leg, and Pettis drives elbows to the ribs. Henderson won't relent, and he eventually pushes Pettis to his back. High guard for Pettis, and he rolls to his knees. Henderson stands over him and tries to work in the hooks. He can't, and Pettis sweeps and stands. There's 90 seconds left in a tight one. Pettis moving forward, and he lands a flying kick off the cage that floors Henderosn. He walked on the cage and floored Henderson with a kick. Thank you, WEC. Pettis pounces, and Henderson is trying to recover. Pettis holds a crucifix. Henderson stands and drives in, and Pettis delivers a final knee. Unbelievable action. MMAjunkie.com gives the final round to Pettis, 10-9, though Henderson takes the fight, 48-47. The second and fourth were so close, it could be up in the air. Anthony Pettis def. Ben Henderson via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) to claim the WEC lightweight title.
MMAJunkie
Lol Got a new respect for both of these guys that fight and that kick at the end was one of the greatest kicks ive seen I hope to god it's Edgar vs Pettris
GLENDALE, Ariz. – MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com) is on scene and reporting live from tonight's historic and promotion-ending WEC 53 event.
Tonight's show, which features a championship doubleheader, takes place at Jobing.com Arena in Glendale, Ariz., and airs live on Versus.
Follow along with our round-by-round updates and official results beginning at 6 p.m. ET (4 p.m. MT local time) for the preliminary card and 9 p.m. ET for the main card.
Tonight's event features a lightweight title fight between champion Benson Henderson and challenger Anthony Pettis. Additionally, bantamweight champ Dominick Cruz tangles with Scott Jorgensen. With tonight's show being the final one in WEC history due its merger with the UFC, the Henderson-Pettis winner gets an immediate UFC lightweight title shot, and the Cruz-Jorgensen winner will be crowned the UFC's first-ever 135-pound champ.
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RENAN BARAO VS. CHRIS CARIASO
Round 1 - It's the first fight of the WEC's final event, and Barao looks to keep his unreal 23-fight win streak intact in this bantamweight affair. Referee Neil Sarembock in charge of the action. Barao misses an early high kick, and Cariaso lands one of his own. Both fighters flashing hard kicks early. Off-balance Cariaso hits the deck, and Barao pushes into his guard. Cariaso secures the arm and thinks armbar, but Barao pulls free. Barao casually posting with his hand on the matt, and Cariaso looks for another armbar. Barao postures and advances to side control. Two minutes in. Cariaso spins in an moves back to half-guard. Barao spins for a kimura and Cariaso rolls. Barao transitions with him and takes the back. Figure-four for Barao across the body. He fires a few punches in from the right side as he looks for an opening for the choke. Cariaso spins in, and Barao takes mount. A few elbows come in, but there's another roll. Barao sinks in the rear-naked choke from the back. It looks deep, but Cariaso fights it. He's stuck, and as courageous as he wants to be, he must tap. Renan Barao def. Chris Cariaso via submission (rear-naked choke) - Round 1, 3:47.
YURI ALCANTARA VS. RICARDO LAMAS
Round 1 - Alcantara makes his WEC debut, while Lamas tries to win his fourth-straight in this lightweight bout. Referee Ron Nation oversees the action. Alcantara takes the center and opens with three punches behind a kick. Lamas defends well and resets. Alcantara continues to stalk and punches into a clinch against the cage. Lamas comfortable and spins to escape. Alcantara moving slowly forward as Lamas bounces. Alcantara slips a punch and fires two and a kick before moving into the clinch again. Lamas circles off easily. Two minutes in, and they break. Alcantara engages quickly and lands a knee, but Lamas closes the gap again and presses in. Knees traded. Lamas appears to be dictating the clinch, though he's hardly taking advantage of it. He finally releases after little action. Alcantara stalks patiently, and a leaping left hook sends Lamas crashing to the floor. Alcantara pounces with three more punches, but Lamas was already cold against the fence. Alcantara walks away before Nation can even get to him. Yuri Alcantara def. Ricardo Lamas via knockout (punches) - Round 1, 3:26.
DANNY CASTILLO VS. WILL KERR
Round 1 - With a few recent losses from each fighter, these two lightweights are likely fighting for their spot on the UFC roster. Referee Herb Dean in the cage. Castillo takes the center. Kerr leaps in with a flying knee that just misses. He immediately switches to a guillotine and falls to his back. It looks tight early, but Castillo pops his head out. Kerr stays busy on the bottom and latches on to Castillo's left leg. Castillo remains calm as he tries to stack his opponent, but the leg is not yet free. Castillo starts firing punches to the body, then the head. Kerr's dome is against the canvas, and Castillo's punches are resonating in the arena. Three connect flush, and Kerr is out. Castillo walks away as Dean calls the fight. Danny Castillo def. Will Kerr via knockout (punches) - Round 1, 1:25.
KEN STONE VS. EDDIE WINELAND
Round 1 - Stone makes his WEC debut, while Wineland a former WEC champ, eyes his fourth-straight win. Referee Neil Sarembock returns to the cage. Wineland moves forward quickly, but Stone is ready with leg kicks. Wineland showing lots of head movement as he holds the center. Stone circling and looking to use his legs early. Stone delivers a straight but catches a snapping counter that pops his head back. Crowd likes the early striking. Stone shoots in. Wineland stuffs it, and Stone leaps to standing guard. Stone wraps his right arm around the neck and has a figure-four around the waist. Wineland walks slowly over to his corner and pushes Stone against the cage. He sits there for a moment before launching forward into the canvas. Stone is out when he hits the mat. Wineland gets in a few punches that are elementary. Fight is over. Eddie Wineland def. Ken Stone via knockout (slam) - Round 1, 2:11.
Stone remained motionless on the canvas for several minutes and was carted out on a stretcher. MMAjunkie.com will have updates as soon as they become available.
IVAN MENJIVAR VS. BRAD PICKETT
Round 1 - One-time UFC fighter and nine-year veteran Menjivar makes his WEC debut, while Pickett looks to return to the win column after recently having a nine-fight win streak snapped. Referee Ron Nation oversees the bantamweight bout. Pickett jabs early, but Menjivar kicks him in the body. Pickett stays on the jab, but Menjivar counters well. Pickett trying to change levels. Menjivar launches into a spinning backfist, but Pickett ducks and earns the takedown. Menjivar looks for an armbar underneath, but Picketts pulls away and returns to the feet. Pickett timing his strikes better and avoiding the counters, but as they move into the clinch, Menjivar does deliver a few short shots of his own. Two minutes in. Pickett digs to the body with a combination, but another shot is met with a knee. Flurry by both, and Pickett drops in for a takedown. Menjivar stuffs this one, and Pickett pulls away. Menjivar lands a partially-blocked high kick. Both guys trading nice leather in impressive flurries. More great action. Menjivar delivers an uppercut and a knee from the clinch. Pickett answers back with a three-punch combo. Less than a minute, and Pickett ducks in for another takedown. It works. Pickett postures and lands a few big shots on top before the bell - the first time we'll see a second round all night. MMAjunkie.com gives the first to Pickett, 10-9.
Round 2 - Pickett returns to the jab. An inside leg kick hits the cup, but Menjivar back to action quickly. Menjivar lands a glancing high kick. Pickett hits the ribs, and a stiff jab staggers Menjivar slightly. Menjivar connects with a straight. Both guys again swing freely in the pocket. Big shots land from both fighters in the toe-to-toe exchange. Menjivar whiffs on another spinning backfist. Two minutes in. Both fighters working a jab. Right from Menjivar staggers Pickett. He drops for a takedown, but Menjivar stuffs it. Another right from Menjivar. Pickett is wobbled and in trouble. Somehow he remains upright and fires back. All heart from Pickett, and he actually earns a takedown. He'll try to regain his wits on top, as he was getting absolutely blasted. Menjivar with guard, and Pickett finds room to strike. He postures and pulls free from a triangle choke attempt. He stands, and as Menjivar does, too, Pickett nails him with a hammerfist and jumps the back. He's high on the back, and he tries for an armbar as he slides off. Menjivar spins free, and they both stand. Great sequence. Back on the feet with less than a minute. More bombs from Menjivar. Pickett trading well. Menjivar thinks standing guillotine but lets it go. Round ends, and it was a hell of a five minutes. Pickett had great moments, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Menjivar on damage, 10-9.
Round 3 - Pickett returns to the jab. Both guys bouncing, looking as though they'll have gas for the final round. Menjivar working an effective straight. Into the clinch. Pickett drops for a takedown, but it's not there. They reset on the feet. Menjivar lands an uppercut. Pickett moving well, but Menjivar really has his timing down perfect. Pickett continues to jab, but Menjivar will answer with two and three punches. Menjivar holds the center. Halfway in, and the round is up for grabs. Pickett lands a big left hook. He drops Menjivar to a knee with a follow up. Leaping knee from Pickett. Menjivar gathers his wits and answers with a knee of his own. Right hand over the top for Pickett. Menjivar bleeding over the left eye, and he's pawing at it. One minute left. Both fighters obviously tiring, but still trading. Menjivar lands two, Pickett answers. It's toe-to-toe again. Menjivar kicks hard to the body. Right hands traded again. Pickett leaps in with a knee, and both fighters wing punches until the final bell. Incredible stuff. Good stuff from both, but MMAjunkie.com sees the final round for Pickett, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 29-28. Brad Pickett def. Ivan Menjivar via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).
SHANE ROLLER VS. JAMIE VARNER
Round 1 - Important lightweight affair, and referee Herb Dean draws the assignment. Varner takes the center and lands a right to the body. Roller circles on the outside, and Varner aims to the gut again. Quick hands from Varner early with shots to the body and then up top. Varner with a very wide stance, and Roller is content to trade with him early. Varner lands an overhand right. Roller does pop a stiff jab, and he looks a bit annoyed as he picks up the pace. Varner retreats and resets. Varner kicks to the thigh. Two minutes in. Varner's right eye reddened, but he fires off a high kick. Roller is dropped from a straight, but he pops up, scores a takedown and immediately scrambles to the back as Varner stands. Varner controls the right arm in front of him. Roller has a figure-four bodylock around the waist. Varner leaps to the side, but Roller doesn't blink as they hit the canvas. Roller sneaks the left arm underneath the chin and squeezes. Varner tries to fight it, but Roller has it in deep. Varner is forced to tap. Shane Roller def. Jamie Varner via submission (rear-naked choke) - Round 1, 3:55.
MMAjunkie.com has learned that according to attending doctors, Stone left the arena conscious, breathing and moving. Initial tests suggest all is fine, though he is being kept for observation at this time.
DANNY DOWNES VS. TIEQUAN ZHANG
Round 1 - Downes looks for his first WEC win, as Zhang hopes to stay unbeaten in his career. Referee Ron Nation oversees WEC 53's final preliminary fight. Zhang takes the center. Downes tries to use his range early, but Zhang walks through it with punches. They clinch and scramble to the floor. Zhang tries to lock up the neck but settles for a beautiful hip toss that sees Downes' legs hit the top of the cage on the way down. Zhang in a top crucifix early, but he slides to the back in a scramble. Zhang lies on his back with Downes in front. Both hooks are in, though it's an open rear-mount. Zhang tries hard to work in the rear-naked choke, but Downes keeps his chin tucked. Downes rolls, and Zhang switches to the figure-four. Zhang still working the choke, but Downes' persistence pays off as he turns in and takes top position. Halfway in. Zhang with full guard underneath. Downes postures and returns to the feet. Zhang a little slow to follow. Downes jabs up the middle. Zhang fires big sweeping hooks. One lands. Zhang moves in and tries to capitalize, but Downes slips around the back and looks for the choke on the feet. Zhang works free and looks for a takedown. Downes shifts his weight and winds up on top. Downes looks to capitalize, but Zhang grabs the arm and extends it with what looks to be a tight armbar. Downes somehow keeps his hands locked to prevent the finish and lasts until the bell. Good stuff in the round, and MMAjunkie.com sees it for Zhang, 10-9.
Round 2 - Downes again walks forward with jabs, but Zhang fires in powerful hooks. Zhang shoots in for a single-leg takedown. Downes defends well early, but Zhang eventually sucks him off the cage and onto the floor. Downes works back up, and Zhang settles for falling to his back. Zhang lands an upkick, but Downes using his length to punch from the top. He moves in, and Zhang scrambles. Downes takes the back and secures a figure-four lock around the waist. Two minutes in, and Zhang ties up the arms well. Downes lands a few short rights to the head. Zhang working side to side, trying to escape. Downes keeps him in front. Chants of "Danny" fill the arena. Zhang finally spins in, and Downes takes half-mount. Downes lands a few punches form the top but elects to return to this feet. He moves quickly back down and tries to take the back. Zhang defends that, but he takes more damage from the top. Downes stands again and kicks the leg. Downes punches as he passes the guard, and Zhang again rolls to his knees rather than work from his back. Zhang looks very tired, and Downes continues to press in. Big elbows in the closing seconds. Zhang is bloodied over his left eye, and he looks exhausted as he rises. MMAjunkie.com gives it to Downes, 10-9.
Round 3 - Zhang practically falls to his back on an early low attack from Downes. Crowd boos. He moves back up and delivers a few more of his patented hooks, but again goes willingly to the floor when Downes clinches. Zhang with his head against the cage, and Downes is pressing in from the top. Short punches, and Zhang tries to tie up from underneath. Downes postures, and Zhang answers with upkicks. Downes moves back down, and Zhang gives up his back again. He spins back and forth underneath, but it only results in Downes on his back again. Downes holds the bodylock, and the chants of "Danny" return. This time they're louder. Zhang again showing capable defense by tying up the arms, but he can't escape. Zhang spins in, but he doesn't clear his left arm, and Downes is handed an arm-triangle choke. He locks it in, but he can't clear out of half-guard to finish. Zhang hangs tight and spins again. Zhang scrambles free in the closing seconds, but he's going to taste defeat for the first time. Bell sounds, and Downes celebrates what should be a clear-cut win. MMAjunkie.com awards the final round to Downes, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 29-28. Danny Downes def. Tiequan Zhang via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 29-28).
BART PALASZEWSKI VS. KAMAL SHALORUS
Round 1 - Referee Neil Sarembock in charge of the evening's first Versus-televised bout. Important contest with lightweight roster spots at a real premium with the UFC-WEC merger coming shortly. Palaszewski circles right as Shalorus takes the center. Big one-two from Shalorus. Palaszewski against the cage, and Shalorus lands more big punches. He looks for a lateral drop and sends Palaszewski to the canvas. Palaszewski takes full guard underneath. Shalorus delivers big right hands to the body and head. Palaszewski's head against the cage, and Shalorus is dropping bombs to the body. Palaszewski spins for an armbar. Shalorus pulls out of the hold and delivers four punches from his feet. Shalorus stands over Palaszewski and delivers heavy shots as Palaszewski looks for option underneath. There aren't any. Hammerfists from Shalorus, and Palaszewski is warned for grabbing the cage. Two minutes left, and Shalorus pushes down into the guard. Palaszewski starts to control the wrist, and Shalorus pulls free. Another warning for Palaszewski. Shalrous lets Palaszewski stand. breathing heavily, but he fires a few jabs and low kicks. One minute remains. Shalorus kicks low, as well. Both fighters trading kicks in the final seconds. Round ends, and MMAjunkie.com sees it 10-9 for Shalorus.
Round 2 - Palaszewski lively early. Shalorus kicking low again as well, but his corner wants him to finish with punches. Slower pace as Shalorus stalks, but he's cut off the cage. Palaszewski shifts left and away from the fence. Shalorus walks him to the cage again and wings heavy hooks. Shalorus nearly falls over with a big right hand that misses. Crowd wants more action. Shalorus kicks low, and Palaszewski answers high. Palaszewski much more comfortable than in the opening minutes of the fight, but he's yet to be real effective. Meanwhile, Shalorus not firing off. Shalorus walks through a few punches and looks for a takedown, but Palaszewski stuffs it. Shalorus dropping his hands a bit, and Palaszewski sees it and lands a high kick. Traded low kicks. Shalorus ducks in for a single and gets it. Butterfly guard underneath. Striking was pretty close, and the takedown may prove very relevant. Palaszewski ties up the arms with overhooks from the bottom. Shalorus walks him to the cage. Shalorus fires off seven punches but lets Palaszewski up. Palaszewski falls back to his butt in a flurry, but he rises quickly and signals he wants more. Round ends, and crowd wants the pace up. MMAjunkie.com give the round to Shalorus, 10-9.
Round 3 - Both fighters busier early on. Shalorus lands two punches on the tail end of a combo. Palaszewski still relying on low kicks, but Shalorus firing those big hooks over the top. Palaszewski lands a jab and a counter left, but they aren't matching the power of Shalorus. Two takedown attempts from Shalorus, and the second works. Palaszewski pops right back up though and lands a knee. Two minutes in. Shalorus still throwing big power shots Palaszewski working low kicks and combinations. Shalorus shoots in, and Palaszewski stuffs it. He grabs a guillotine, but he falls off and lands on his back. Full guard underneath. Shalorus looked to be slowing a bit on the feet, but Palaszewski won't be able to capitalize here. Shalorus advances to half-mount. Palaszewski works back to guard. Both fighters jockeying for positions. Palaszewski eventually works to his feet and lands a nice snapping high kick. Less than a minute. Shalorus is tired, and he eats a big knee. Palaszewski giving chase as Shalorus retreats. Palaszewski misses a flying knee at the end, but he won't get the finish. MMAjunkie.com will give Palaszewski the nod in the final frame, 10-9, as Shalorus did little with his time on top, and he only got there from a missed submission. Nevertheless, MMAjunkie.com awards the fight to Shalorus, 29-28. Kamal Shalorus def. Bart Palaszewski via split decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28).
DONALD CERRONE VS. CHRIS HORODECKI
Round 1 - Another big lightweight fight between two exciting competitors. Referee Herb Dean oversees the action. Cerrone with a quick jab, but Horodecki fires off a combo. Cerrone tries to punch from distance, but Horodecki leaping in to negate the reach. Horodecki catches a low kick to the cup, and he'll take a breather. Both jab on the restart. Horodecki mixing in kicks, and Cerrone decides to do the same. Cerrone shoots in and sets up in side control.Horodecki scrambles up and away in a slick transition. Horodecki lands a jab. He's staying busy and beating Cerrone to the punch. Horodecki lands a right to the chin. Cerrone tries the Thai clinch, but there's nothing there. Horodecki walks into a kick, but he's unaffected. Cerrone lands a lead left, but Horodecki counters well. Jab from Cerrone, but Horodecki working combos. Horodecki lands shots to the body. Spinnign back kick from Horodecki. Cerrone looking for single punches, though he does mix in a low kick. Horodecki closes the distance and lans a takedown. Cerrone pops right back up and lands a high kick in the scramble. Horodecki pushes Cerrone down again with one minute left. Cerrone tries to work a submission from his back, but Horodecki pulls away and back to his feet. Cerrone shoots in and takes the back in a scramble. Horodecki ties him up until the bell, and the round ends there. Close round, but MMAjunkie.com sees it 10-9 for Horodecki.
Round 2 - Horodecki continues to duck the punches and land to the body. He earns a takedown, but Cerrone works immediately to an omo plata. It looks deep as he stacks it up, but Horodecki spins with it and somehow stays safe. Cerrone keeps control from his back when Horodecki escapes, and "Cowboy" shifts to a triangle choke attempt. He's a little off to the side, and Horodecki survives. Cerrone patient underneath as he re-adjusts. Horodecki is certainly trapped, but Cerrone has to find the angle. He continues to shift and finally gets the hold on properly. He squeezes tight, and Horodecki is forced to tap. Donald Cerrone def. Chris Horodecki via submission (triangle choke) - Round 2, 2:43.
WEC officials confirm Ken Stone was released from the hospital with no major injuries and is currently en route back to the arena.
CHAMP DOMINICK CRUZ VS. SCOTT JORGENSEN
Round 1 - WEC champion Cruz and top challenger Jorgensen will determine the UFC's first-ever bantamwieght champion in the evening's co-main event. Referee Neil Sarembock oversees the action. Both fighters bouncing early and seeking angles. Cruz feigns a few kicks. Both jabbing, but Cruz hits the first significant combo. Jorgensen jabbing and trying t unravel the Cruz mystery. Cruz as manic as ever. Left for Cruz, and he lands a three-punch combo. Corner wants Jorgensen to look for a takedown. Cruz working side to side, popping punches. He lands a knee, but Jorgensen gets into a clinch and slips around to the back. Cruz turns in and slips away with nary a takedown attempt. Halfway in. Cruz misses an uppercut and eats a counter, but he returns with a leg kick. Nice outside leg kick from Crus and a popping jab. Jorgensen trying to scrap, but Cruz is outboxing him. Jorgensen does work in a jab. Cruz bobbing and weaving and pops an uppercut. Jorgensen takes a front kick to the gut and pushes into the clinch. Cruz defends against the cage and pushes Jorgensen away. MOre leg kicks from Cruz. Jorgensen finally lands a takedown and slips to the back, but Cruz feels it and rolls over to top. Round ends, and MMAjunie.com sees the first for Cruz, 10-9.
Round 2 - Jorgensen shoots in early and briefly gets a takedown, but Cruz is immediately back up. Jorgensen pops a jab. Cruz answers with a stiffer version. Cruz doing his thing, picking Jorgensen apart on the feet. Jorgensen's corner wants him to fire combinations and brawl. Cruz continues to land.Cruz lands a jab and scores a takedown as he catches Jorgensen off-guard. Two minutes in. Jorgensen working a closed guard underneath and trying to lands few punches underneath. Cruz also finding a little room to work and attacking with punches and elbows. Jorgensen breaks the guard and sits up against the cage. Cruz continues to press in and create problems. Crowd wants the action on the feet, but Cruz is staying busy in spurts from the top. Punches coming in from all angles, even on the floor. Jorgensen signals to Sarembock that he's OK, but he's offering little in the way of offense. Jorgensen finally works to his feet in the closing seconds. Cruz bleeding from the bridge of his nose. Shouldn't be an issue, though. Round ends, and MMAjunkie.com sees it for Cruz, 10-9.
Round 3 - Both fighters still lively, and they rush to the center. Cruz dancing around, and a right hand sends Jorgensen to the floor. He pops up immediately. Jorgensen still moving forward, but he's not closing the space. Cruz mixes in a few high kicks, and a low kick spins Jorgensen around. Jorgensen holding the center, but Cruz keeping things at his range. More head movement from Cruz, more movement. Cruz firing off combinations at will. Jorgensen sneaking in a jab here and there, but Cruz working leg kicks and knees as well. Jorgensen's corner, especially Joe Warren, wants Jorgensen to brawl, but he just can't catch up to Cruz. Rolling head for Cruz, and he lands a left. Ducks under and takes Jorgensen to the floor. Jorgensen works from his back, and he does sweep in the closing seconds, but Cruz feels it and scrambles to his feet immediately. They clinch briefly, and the round ends, and MMAjunkie.com gives it again to Cruz, 10-9.
Round 4 - Jorgensen will likely need a finish now, as these rounds haven't appeared to be at all questionable. Cruz tees off with a big right. He comes right back with a combination that lands, as well. Cruz gets another takedown, and his corner lets him know he has to get back to his feet. Jorgensen scoots back to the cage and tries to pull away, but Cruz is relentless with his pressure. Not as much damage as in earlier rounds, but Jorgensen is absolutely trapped against the fence. Jorgensen scrambles up, and Cruz tries to slip the back. Jorgensen spins and pulls free, and the reset on the feet two minutes in. Cruz lands a short elbow, and Jorgensen spins off and pushes his opponent into the cage. Cruz quickly reverses and pulls away. Cruz returns to kicks and knees. His mouth is open, but he's still finding angles for his punches. Another takedown for Cruz. Jorgensen works up before absorbing any damage. Cruz kicks hard to the body. He whiffs on three leaping punches, but he's still moving forward. Another takedown in the closing seconds, and Jorgensen looks tired. Cruz lands a few more punches from the top, and it's another round for Cruz on the MMAjunkie.com card, 10-9.
Round 5 - Jorgensen's right eye busted up pretty good, and he has to go for broke. Jorgensen working behind a jab, but Cruz still slipping and firing off counter right hands. Cruz also not looking to cruise home, as he's still doing his thing. Jorgensen is game in his effort, and he's certainly not wilting, but Cruz is absolutely working him over. Cruz kicks to the body. Two minutes in. Cruz throwing combinations all over the cage. Jorgensen finally catches up and earns a takedown. Halfway in. Cruz immediately scrambles to his feet. Jorgensen had a bodylock but let it go. Cruz fires a Superman punch and then rushes forward with a driving takedown that puts Jorgensen on his back yet again. Jorgensen works an open guard and tries to create some space to stand, but Cruz continues to drive into his opponent. Less than a minute. Some of the crowd wants a stand-up, but there's no reason. Cruz doing enough. Cruz decides to stand in the clinch seconds, and he lands a leaping knee and a combination. He'll defend his WEC title and claim the UFC's, as well, following a masterful performance. MMAjunkie.com awards Cruz the final round, 10-9, and gives him the fight, 50-45. Dominick Cruz def. Scott Jorgensen via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to retain his WEC bantamweight title and become the first-ever UFC bantamweight champion.
CHAMP BENSON HENDERSON VS. ANTHONY PETTIS
Round 1 - It's the final fight in WEC history, and Henderson and Pettis will determine the promotion's final lightweight champion, as well as the No. 1 contender in the UFC. Referee Herb Dean the third man in the cage. Pettis bounces in the corner, Henderson calm. Henderson takes the center, and Pettis dances cautiously around. Switch kick from Henderson blocked. Pettis kicks low. Pettis also misses a switch kick. Henderson punches, but it's a Pettis counter left that lands. Both fighters cautious. Chants of "Ben" fill the arena. Henderson lands a low kick to end a combo and moves into the clinch. Tight bodylock, and Pettis defends against the cage. Knees to the thigh for Henderson, and we're halfway in. Henderson finally earns the trip, and Pettis takes guard with his back against the cage. Henderson presses in from his knees an lands a few short lefts. Pettis tries to slip back into a triangle choke, but Henderson postures out. Pettis kicks him away, and we reset with 80 seconds left. Pettis has a high kick blocked. Pettis lands a front kick. Henderson leaps in with another takedown, and he gets it on a second effort. He lands a few punches from the top in the closing seconds and claims the round on the MMAjunkie.com card, 10-9.
Round 2 - Pettis takes the center. Henderson kicks to the body as he circles right. Pettis keeps a low profile and lands a right hand. Henderson hits the deck, and Pettis tries to take the back. He gets there briefly and kicks to the face. Henderson grabs a kimura grip on the feet, and Pettis dumps him to defend. They scramble back up, and Henderson presses in against the cage. Pettis light on his feet and trying to keep his tole as the aggressor. Two minutes in. Henderson jabbing from distance. Henderson misses an overhand left but avoids the counters. He pushes in again. Nothing in the clinch, and they reset. Henderson retreating, but he lands a left hook. Henderson kicks to the body. Leaping knee from Pettis misses, and Henderson presses in again. Pettis defends, and Henderson resets. Low kick catches Henderson on the cup, but he wants back in instantly. Henderson lands a high. Pettis slowing his attack in the closing parts of this round, and it may cost him. Very close round, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Henderson, 10-9.
Round 3 - Pettis again takes the center, but it's Henderson that open with the low kick. Henderson really working to counterstrike. Traded punches from both look crisp. Pettis shoves Henderson to the floor and scrambles to the back. Henderson stands, and Pettis is hanging on upside down. He's high, but he has the leg hooked. Henderson goes to a knee, and Pettis readjusts. Henderson defending well from the front, but Pettis is in good shape on the back. Henderson trying to use the cage to peel Pettis off, but the challenger is staying tight. Two minutes remain. Pettis punching to the ribs and head. He wants Henderson to let go of the wrist, but Henderson wisely does not. More punches from the back. it's a stalemate, but Pettis won't give up the back. More punches to the body and head. One minute left in this battle of stamina. Henderson has been supporting his opponent's weight for most of the round. Henderson takes to elbowing Pettis' right leg but does not let the arm under his chin. Closing seconds, and Pettis lets go and kicks the head. Entertaining fight through three. MMAjunkie.com gives the third to Pettis, 10-9.
Round 4 - Henderson more aggressive to open. He flurries and shoots. Pettis tries to graba D'arce but slips off. Henderson presses in from the top. Pettis kicks his legs up, and Henderson shucks them off. He spins to the back as Pettis turtles. Henderson grabs a bodylock around the waist and rolls to his own back. Rear-naked choke looks seep. Crowd on its feet. Pettis somehow peels off the arm. Two minutes in. Pettis calm, but he's now in a bad spot with Henderson glued to his back. Petti spins quickly in, and now he jumps the back in a scramble. Henderson calm and walks to the cage. Pettis isn't firm on the back, and he lets go. Henderson pushes him away. Less than two minutes. Front kick from Henderson. Henderson kicks the body but eats a stiff counter right. Pettis still moving forward, and they clash with strikes. Pettis walks into a right hand but stuffs a shit. Pettis grabs a guillotine on the right-hand side. He's in half-gaurd. He adjusts to full guard. Time winding down, and Henderson makes it. Another great round that had solid moments from both fighters. Tough to score, but MMAjunkie.com sees it for Henderson, 10-9.
Round 5 - Fight could easily be up in the air. Early flurry from Pettis. Henderson takes a shot to the cup and needs a quick break. Doesn't take much. Henderson kicks twice to the body, but Pettis counters over the top both times. Pettis is shucking and jiving and delivers another punch. Halfway in. Pettis shuffling his feet, and Henderson slips to the floor. Pettis moves in and tries to get the back but can't. He stands and moves away. Henderson shoots, and Pettis leaps in the air. Henderson sticks to a single leg, and Pettis drives elbows to the ribs. Henderson won't relent, and he eventually pushes Pettis to his back. High guard for Pettis, and he rolls to his knees. Henderson stands over him and tries to work in the hooks. He can't, and Pettis sweeps and stands. There's 90 seconds left in a tight one. Pettis moving forward, and he lands a flying kick off the cage that floors Henderosn. He walked on the cage and floored Henderson with a kick. Thank you, WEC. Pettis pounces, and Henderson is trying to recover. Pettis holds a crucifix. Henderson stands and drives in, and Pettis delivers a final knee. Unbelievable action. MMAjunkie.com gives the final round to Pettis, 10-9, though Henderson takes the fight, 48-47. The second and fourth were so close, it could be up in the air. Anthony Pettis def. Ben Henderson via unanimous decision (48-47, 48-47, 49-46) to claim the WEC lightweight title.
MMAJunkie
Lol Got a new respect for both of these guys that fight and that kick at the end was one of the greatest kicks ive seen I hope to god it's Edgar vs Pettris