Elite XC 26/7 card plus bonus beer action
EliteXC returned to your TV yesterday. Some comments on the fights that I’ve seen:
Robbie Lawler – Scott Smith: Lawler retained his title via TKO in the middle of the second round. In a rematch following a no-contest a couple of months ago, the first round wasn’t massively exciting, with both fighters staying on the feet throughout, fighting cagily and somewhat feeling each other out. Apart from a brief interchange in the clinch midway through the round, it was a close and defensive standup exchange, with Smith edging a close round, mostly due to an increase in workrate late. Second round saw it go to the clinch earlier, with Lawler able to get the better of it and send Smith to the floor, finishing quickly afterwards.
Jake Shields – Nick Thompson: wow, this was embarrassing. Shields takes Thompson down far too easily, transitions to the mount far too easily, and secures a guillotine far too easily, and it’s over in about a minute. Blimey.
Nick Diaz – Thomas Denny: give credit to Denny, he came in to compete despite being hugely outclassed in what was an entertaining matchup which had a bit of everything. First round saw some awesome standup, takedowns, armbar attempts from Diaz, but Denny was worn down pretty quickly, just about running on fumes in the last minute as Diaz rained down strikes. He survived the round but was knocked out very quickly in the second. Well worth a watch.
Antonio Silva – Justin Eilers: well, Eilers did well to make it through the first really, there looked to be a huge size and talent disadvantage. When Silva was able to take it to the ground he looked dominant, and were it not for having it stood up due to a strike to the back of the head (resulting in a point deduction), he could probably have stayed there all day. As is, he managed to wear down Eilers enough in the first to allow for a very quick KO in the second. Not the most interesting of matchups, was more a question of when Silva stopped it rather than if.
Rafael Feijao – Travis Galbraith: Fighters clinch early and Travis is able to score some knees before they separate. A strength disadvantage is apparent with attempted takedowns, Feijao being able to do so easily, and Travis attempting a couple but failing. After a separation, Feijao is able to lead with a good headshot and follow up with knees from the clinch, flooring Galbraith and finishing soon after.
As for the beer:
28 – Rudgate War Hammer (3.9%) – 6, neutral flavour which is dull and uninspiring, an effort to finish
29 – Marston Moor Avro’s Best (3.8%) – 6.5, a bit more pleasant but not great, clear and a bit watery and rather hoppy, easier to drink though.
