Paulo Thiago Defeats Jacob Volkmann

Merry Christmas Paulo Thiago, you got to beat up on a UFC newcomer. Though, in all fairness to Jacob Volkmann, Thiago had to work damn hard to get the victory.

This was a real back and forth fight. You could really see Jacob's strengths as a wrestler whenever he put himself in top position. Conversely, you got to see Thiago's grappling skills by being very active from the bottom.

On top, Paulo Thiago was very dangerous. He channeled the spirit of Shogun Rua when he postured up for a big punch. He doesn't have the laser accuracy of Shogun, so he didn't quite get the knockout. Still, he was the more aggressive fighter and deserved to win the decision.

You still had to be impressed by the d'arce choke Jacob got in the third round. It really was a case of too little too late. However it's moves like that (courage in the face of defeat) that will get you a full-time job in the UFC. Provided of course you don't lose two in a row.

I loved hearing Joe imitate Thiago's corner in saying “passa guaga” and then Mike's response “pass the water?”. Mike tried to play it like he was joking, that he knew it really meant pass the guard. I dunno Mike. With you, we're never sure.

Next Fight: Josh Koscheck vs. Anthony Johnson

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