Lyoto Machida and Gegard Mousasi’s fight in the main-event may not have lived up to expectations, but the striking was impressive nonetheless.

Lyoto Machida took control of the first three rounds with his elite striking skills. While Mousasi did control the center of the octagon, Machida nullified that by bum-rushing Mousasi with punches and knees. Machida’s left high kick was what made Mousasi cautious in his combinations, as it connected a number of times throughout the fight.

Going into the championship rounds, you would think that it was Machida who had the advantage. However, Mousasi landed a takedown right at the beginning of the fourth round and he tried to grapple his way to a win. Machida had other plans, however, and turned the tables. It wasn’t long before he was postured over Mousasi looking to introduce his fists to Mousasi’s face. Mousasi landed an illegal upkick at the end of the round, though, that caused a pause in action. While the referee did not take away a point, it seemed to have light a fire under Machida going into the fifth round.

Lyoto Machida simply outclassed Gegard Mousasi in the fifth round in every aspect. Mousasi was obviously tired and his hands were low in defense, which meant he was susceptible to Machida’s dangerous strikes.

After Lyoto Machida was awarded the win, he said he would like to fight the champion. He is now 4-1 in his last 5 fights.

Lyoto Machida def. Gegard Mousasi by way of Unanimous Decision (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)