UFC 118 Live Blog: Kenny Florian vs. Gray Maynard Updates

By Mike Chiappetta - Senior Writer

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BOSTON -- This is the UFC 118 live blog for Kenny Florian vs. Gray Maynard, a lightweight bout on tonight's UFC pay-per-view from the TD Garden.

The winner of Florian vs. Maynard will be next in line for a lightweight title shot. Maynard is the only person to ever defeat current champion Frankie Edgar. Florian previously challenged Penn for the belt, but lost.

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Round 1: Florian with a low stance, ready for the takedown tries that are likely to come. Florian with a head kick that's most deflected by Maynard, then a front kick. Very slow pace early as they try each other out. Florian fakes the level change, giving Maynard something to think about. Maynard seems to be in reactionary mode early. In the first exchange, Florian lands the first significant blow, a right behind the ear that knocks Maynard off-balance for a tick. Maynard drives for the takedown with 1:20 left. Florian fights, but Maynard digs deeper, eventually clasps his hands behind Florian's knees, picks him up and slams him down. Maynard lands a few punches to the body but the round runs out on him. MMA Fighting scores a close round for Florian, 10-9.

Round 2: This round begins as the last one did. Florian is very respectful of Maynard's wrestling, and Maynard's very respectful of Florian's striking. Midway through, Maynard shoots in for the takedown. Florian uses a whizzer to stay on his feet, but Maynard completes the takedown moments later. Maynard moves to side control for a few moments, but Florian regains his guard. Maynard's offense from the top is nothing overwhelming but he does easily control Florian to take round two, 10-9.

Round 3: Florian's left eye is swelling up. Florian begins to get the best of the standup, but Maynard puts an end to that real quick with a strong takedown two minutes in. Maynard peppers Florian from the top with short punches. Every time Florian tries to get up, Maynard controls his legs. Florian finally gets up with 1:20 left, but only for a few seconds. Florian tries an oma plata. Maynard pulls out. Florian gets back to his feet with 20 seconds left. Florian stalks him around the cage but can't land anything of note in the final moments. MMA Fighting scores the round for Maynard, 10-9.

Winner: Maynard via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)


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