Rashad “Suga” Evans defeated Quinton “Rampage” Jackson by unanimous decision in the main event at UFC 114 Saturday night at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The judges scored it 30-27, 29-28 and 30-27 for Evans, who is now a top contender to go up against UFC light heavyweight champion Mauricio “Shogun” Rua.
Evans rushed to a quick lead by scoring a takedown with 2 minutes, 15 seconds left in the first round. He kept his opponent’s back pressed against the cage in the second. Jackson finally mounted an attack in Round 3 but he ran out of gas — allowing Evans to recover enough to deliver another takedown with 1:45 to go. He pinned Jackson against the cage and dropped punches from the top.
UFC President Dana White called the UFC marquee-busting fight between two African Americans a “big deal”. In fact, it was a first for a UFC main event card. He said, “Soon you’re going to see guys from all over the world, from every ethnic background, headlining or showcasing UFC cards. It’s a very mobile sport.”
In other action, Michael Bisping won a unanimous decision from Dan Miller. That three-round middleweight bout was scored 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28.
Mike Russow scored a stunning knockout against Todd Duffee, the previously unbeaten heavyweight prospect, at 2:35 into Round 3.
It was a split decision between Antonio Rogerio Nogueira and Jason Brilz, with all three judges scoring 29-28. Two judges favored Nogueira, and he emerged victor in a decision that didn’t sit well with the crowd.
British welterweight John Hathaway cruised to a unanimous decision against Diego Sanchez in the 170-pound division. Scores were 30-27, 30-27 and 30-26.
Rashad Evans and his pregnant wife LaToya Evans hit the after-party at Tabu last night. They have a son Rashad Jr., and a daughter, Nia.
More photos and ESPN highlights coverage video below:
Photos: PicApp, WENN
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