Now Serving: The Werdum Special

Charles Oliveira, UFC on Versus 2

Not only did Charles Oliveira snap a triangle on Darren Elkins in super-speed – just like Fabricio Werdum’s submission over Fedor Emelianenko in June – but the Brazilian lightweight applied an armbar simultaneously to get the tap, as did his heavyweight counterpart. Who knew submissions were contagious?

Most Vindicated

Chael Sonnen, UFC 117

While the vast majority of observers, fans and insiders didn’t permit Chael Sonnen a shot against the puzzle of Anderson Silva, he always had a wrestler’s chance. Sonnen’s “chopping wood” style, as he calls it, of taking an opponent down and grinding them out with relentless ground ‘n’ pound left ‘The Spider’ without an answer and Sonnen within minutes of becoming UFC champion. Few will question Sonnen’s abilities in the future.

Sharpest Return to Form

Takanori Gomi, UFC on Versus 2

There’s still fire in the fists of Japanese lightweight Takanori Gomi, the trait that made him a star in Nippon. After an under-form showing against Bostonian contender Kenny Florian, ‘The Fireball Kid’ took the fight to the smothering Tyson Griffin and, with a fierce left hook early in round one, knocked the American out – who promptly face planted into the canvas.

Jaw of Granite Award

Roy Nelson, UFC 117

A rare breed of spherical athlete, Roy Nelson proved he has more than a physique-based gimmick by taking all the best shots of the muscular and powerful Junior Dos Santos. The Brazilian has felled many with his heavy hands (including the Fedor-beating Fabricio Werdum) but Nelson was able to endure the best they could produce, every round.

Best Film Reference

Jon Jones, UFC on Versus 2

There are only so many times one might be presented with the opportunity to address a throng of attentive San Diegans. Jon Jones took his by using his post-win mic time with Joe Rogan to paraphrase the comedy movie Anchorman with: “You stay classy San Diego.”

Best Comeback: One

Anderson Silva, UFC 117

For Anderson Silva to pull out a submission after being dominated for 23 minutes, especially when it was one of his few significant attempts at offense (likewise this kimura attempt above), is worthy of merit. Shortcomings exposed, the Brazilian demonstrated heart to grab a triangle/armbar finish while seated firmly in the jaws of defeat.

Best Comeback: Two

Stefan Struve, UFC 117

In a similar fashion to his bout with Denis Stojnic, at UFC 99 in June 2009, Stephan Struve endured vicious ground ‘n’ pound to take a second-round win, this time against Christian Morecraft. The fight was close to being stopped several times during the first round. But the Dutchman persevered and, during a dangerous and ferocious stand-up exchange, knocked out his opponent with a straight right.

Sore Loser Award

Tyson Griffin, UFC on Versus 2

Whether Tyson Griffin thought the stoppage was justified or not he could have extended a hand to Takanori Gomi – who, looking to reconcile, awkwardly went padding after the sulking Griffin as he paced around the Octagon. The American had multiple opportunities to at least begrudgingly congratulate ‘The Fireball Kid’ but didn’t take any. He’s one fighter that didn’t receive Mike Goldberg’s trademark line, ‘Always classy in defeat.’ But the two made amends later – Gomi posted a picture of him and Griffin on his Twitter.

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