UFC Louisville: KFC Yum! Center; Louisville, Kentucky
Even the great ones miss a call at times. After all, we’re all only human. However, arguably one of the best referees in all of combat sports, JASON HERZOG is part of the story on this night. Whereas judges are not allowed to speak on their cards, referees are able to answer for their errors. And with that mistake the UFC might have to run this main event back. It could have been worse though. At least it wasn’t a STEVE MAZZAGATTI situation.
What was turning into a back and forth contest ended abruptly at 1:34 of round four when Herzog jumped in to stop the action. It was a counter right hook that started the flurry from Nassourdine Imavov that had Jared Cannonier wobbled. Cannonier turned away with the 29-year old Frenchman following him. Cannonier was far from being out on his feet when Imavov followed up with a couple of lefts before Herzog’s move.
The Killa Gorilla momentarily argued against the stoppage, but what was done was done. While the crowd was immediately vocally displeased, it was out of the fighters hands. We’ll now never know if a true finish was on the verge of happening.
Dana White Might Have To Run This One Back
Despite the call out of Sean Strickland for a Paris scrap, that probably won’t happen. Although the build up with Strickland’s sharp tongue would be fun. The only problem there would be Imavov’s lack of English retorts. But the former champion has said he’s waiting for the next title shot.
Imavov was being controlled early by Cannonier, and was at the end of his punches too. And as tactical as Cannonier was behind his jab, Strickland is moreso… with a Philly-Shell defense. Even once Imavov found his range, he too was still getting controlled in the clinch along the fence. And there Strickland can land his dirty boxing. Although both are slow starters.
Yes it is Imavov’s biggest win, and he should enter the Top-5, but one more time is needed to set the record straight. And in the camp leading up to it, work on getting better takedowns. Not that he’s horrible though. But because he was getting touched way too much. And the top of the division is filled with heavy hitters. Giving them something to worry about can only help him.
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