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Striker vs. Grappler was the theme for the UFC 165 preliminary card bout between John Makdessi and Renee Forte. Makdessi and Forte were both coming off impressive February wins against their respective opposition.
Surprisingly, Forte was more than willing to strike with Makdessi, and attempted no takedowns over the course of the fight. Granted, the "course of the fight" was all of 2 minutes, as Makdessi landed a counter right hand just behind Forte's ear, and after a barrage of precise and hard punches on the ground, Forte was out cold and the referee (who probably should've stepped in earlier) ended the fight. Official Result: John Makdessi def. Renee Forte via KO (punches) at 2:01 of round 1.
What was the high point of the fight?
The knockdown and the finishing blows was great to watch, and it's Makdessi's first KO win since his spinning backfist stoppage of Kyle Watson at UFC 129.
Where do these two go from here?
Makdessi (12-2) has looked considerably improved after consecutive losses against Dennis Hallman and Anthony Njokuani. His takedown defense has improved, his striking is very good, and I think we'll see him against someone like the winner of James Krause/Bobby Green.
Forte (8-3) is now 1-2 in the UFC with both losses coming by finish. Expect him to be on a Brazilian show next year in some type of "loser gets cut" booking.
Watch now, never, or later?
Now. It was a brief bout, an all-striking battle, and ultimately the superior striker took home the victory.
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