CHRIS WEIDMAN UNANIMOUSLY outpointed Lyoto Machida at UFC 175 on Saturday night to retain his middleweight title.
The judges had Weidman ahead 49-46, 49-45, 48-47 over Machida (21-5). This was Weidman’s second title defense after shocking the MMA world with a victory over long-time champion Anderson Silva one year ago.
In the co-main event, women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey stopped Alexis Davis at 16 seconds of the first round. Rousey improved to 10-0 with all wins by way of submission, KO or TKO. This was her fourth consecutive title defence.
The former Olympic Judoka was praised during her post-fight interview for her improved striking skills and replied, “I box six days a week and grapple four days a week. I have more to catch up on striking, so that’s what I train the most. I think I can do better.”
Rousey rocked Davis with a solid right, secured an immediate judo toss and landed nine punches, knocking out Davis and forcing the referee to stop the fight in what became the second-fastest knockout in UFC title bout history.
Rousey, jeered by fans following her past UFC victories, received a loud ovation from most in attendance.
“I’m not sure if they’ll keep cheering me,” Rousey said. “I’m not going to keep my fingers crossed, but thank you, I appreciate it.”