Who should be blamed: Patrick Cote and The Fans

Many people are up in arms about the way the Championship bout was decided at UFC 90, but is putting the blame squarely on Anderson Silva fair?

Not one bit.  Let's take a look at the fight...

Anderson Silva has routinely been a "slow starter."  Rushing in and unloading on his opponent has never been an avenue he has followed.  Silva much prefers to learn his opponents timing, to see what they are capable of, and then to strike when the opportunities present themselves.  This match was no different.

On repeat viewings of this match, it is plainly obvious that Patrick Cote fought this match to not get knocked out.  Even worse than fighting not to lose.  His post fight comments about being the first person to make it to round three paint the picture about his intentions firmly.  Let's dig deeper though.  During the fight Patrick Cote moved forward, but when moving forward he rarely was in striking distance with his hands.  Cote did his best to stay out of danger, but he had no offense to speak of.  And when Anderson moved forward, Cote did his best to get out of the way.  Let's look at the actual numbers though.

According to Fight Metric Anderson Silva put up an accuracy rating of 63% or 18 out of 29 shots.  Cote landed a measly 17% or 5 out of 29.  To land many of these shots, Anderson Silva had to dart in from outside striking distance.  Anderson also landed a takedown and defended a couple take downs to put a stamp on the domination.

Realistically, it isn't entirely Patrick Cote's fault.  It is all of our faults as well, the fans.  We put Anderson Silva far too high.  Anything less than a dominant performance concluded by a KO is a disappointment for most of us (All 8 of his fights in the UFC have been finishes).  Anderson was already putting in a fantastic performance, but it's not enough for us apparently.

Everyone owes Anderson Silva an apology and first in line should be Patrick Cote.