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UFC on FOX 2 Morning After: FOX Fights Fail to Deliver

By Michael David Smith
Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
Esther Lin, MMA Fighting

CHICAGO -- There was some great action in the Octagon at the United Center on Saturday night. Unfortunately, all of it was over before the FOX show got started.

After a seven-fight preliminary card delivered one outstanding fight after another, the three-fight main card on the network was a disappointment. Between the three fights Fox broadcast on Saturday and the Junior dos Santos-Cain Velasquez fight in November (which was 59 minutes of talking surrounding one minute of fighting), there still hasn't been a really good UFC fight on network television yet.

That's a shame. If Fox had shown the Fight of the Night from Evan Dunham vs. Nik Lentz, or Lavar Johnson's knockout of Joey Beltran, or Charles Oliveira's brilliant submission, millions of Americans would have seen what the UFC at its best looks like. Instead, millions of Americans saw three mediocre battles.

The less said about Chris Weidman's decision win over Demian Maia, the better. That was simply not what anyone thinks of as a good MMA fight. Any curious newcomers to the UFC who turned the show on from the beginning probably changed the channel after the first round of that one.

Chael Sonnen's fight with Michael Bisping was better, and the pro-Sonnen crowd was energetic, but that fight wasn't much to look at, either: Sonnen showed how to use superior wrestling and clinch work to win a decision, but the new fans the UFC wants to draw on Fox probably didn't find that too entertaining, either.


And in the main event, Rashad Evans dominated Phil Davis for 25 minutes without ever coming close to finishing. If you know enough about MMA to appreciate that Davis is a very talented athlete, an NCAA champion wrestler and a rising star in the sport, you were probably impressed with how thoroughly Evans controlled him. But if you're new to MMA and had never seen Evans or Davis before, you probably figured at the end that you'd rather spend half an hour watching a Seinfeld rerun than watching a fight like that.

The UFC and FOX both say they're in this for the long haul, and that they plan to grow the sport together. That's good, because this is going to take time. The UFC and Spike got lucky when the first Ultimate Fighter Finale had a sensational battle between Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar. So far, there's been no such luck for the UFC and FOX. Through four live, televised fights, the network television viewers haven't seen much action.

  • UFC on FOX 2

    Dustin Jacoby strikes Chris Camozzi at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi uses a guillotine choke to submit Dustin Jacoby at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi celebrates his submission win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi celebrates his submission win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Joey Beltran gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Joey Beltran falls back after getting hit by Lavar Johnson at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson punches Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson drills Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson punches Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson celebrates his knockout win against Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson strikes Shane Roller at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller gets some attention between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller has a quick chat with referee Herb Dean at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller tries to submit Michael Johnson at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson looks for the finish at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Micheal Johnson defeated Shane Roller via unanimous decision at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson waves to the crowd before his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Eric Wisely's kick is caught by Charles Oliveira at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira tries to finish Eric Wisely at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira catches Eric Wisely in a calf-crusher at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira celebrates his win over Eric Wisely at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson strikes George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson earns a second-round TKO over George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Jon Olav Einemo catches Mike Russow with a knee at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow tries to finish Jon Olav Einemo at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow is hit in the face by a knee from Jon Olav Einemo at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow celebrates his unanimous decision win in front of his hometown crowd at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Brittney Palmer takes her walk around the Octagon between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Nik Lentz catches Evan Dunham with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2 Photos

    Evan Dunham smashes Nik Lentz in the face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham looks for the finish at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham batters Nik Lentz against the cage at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham and Nik Lentz exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham strikes Nik Lentz at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham celebrates his victory over Nik Lentz exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Nik Lentz suffers his second straight loss at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia and Chris Weidman exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia knees Chris Weidman at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Weidman hits Demian Maia at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia gets ready to strike Chris Weidman at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia and Chris Weidman give each other hgh-five after their fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Weidman celebrates his unanimous decision win against Demian Maia at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen hits Michael Bisping with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping connects with a left to Chael Sonnen's face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen takes Michael Bisping down at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping and Chael Sonnen battle at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping connects with a knee against Chael Sonnen with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping takes a breather after the first round at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Arianny Celeste finishes up her lap around the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen gets ready for the second round at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen connects to Michael Bisping's face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen battles Michael Bisping on the ground at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping celebrates after the fight before the decision is read at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping and Chael Sonnen slap hands after their fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen celebrates his unanimous decision win over Michael Bisping at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen has a memorable speech with Joe Rogan after his fight at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping reacts after suffering his first loss in five fights at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

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  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis gets his ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Bruce Buffer announces the fighters for the main event at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans punches Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans traps Phil Davis in a mounted crucifix at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans takes a seat between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis catches Rashad Evans with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans strikes Phil Davis in the face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans punches Phil Davis in his eye at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans strikes Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans hits Phil Davis with an elbow at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis gets a breather between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans hits Phil Davis with his left hand at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans earns a unanimous decision win over Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting



UFC on Fox 2 Notes
-- Charles Oliveira has a ton of talent, and he looked better than ever fighting at 145 pounds for the first time in the UFC. The 22-year-old Oliveira needed just 1 minute, 43 seconds to submit Eric Wisely with a calf slicer, and he could be a future featherweight title contender.

-- Mike Russow, a Chicago cop, got one of the best ovations I've ever heard before his fight with John-Olav Einemo. He also had one of the most surprising game plans I've ever seen when he repeatedly took Einemo down, even though Einemo is a world-class submission grappler. But it worked, as Russow stayed on top and out of trouble on the ground and won a decision. Russow isn't the prettiest fighter to watch, but he's 15-1 in his MMA career, including 4-0 in the Octagon. Think about this: If Alistair Overeem beats Junior dos Santos, Russow will have the longest winning streak in the UFC heavyweight division.

"I can't believe I'm 4-0 in the UFC right now," Russow said afterward. "It's unbelievable. To have this fight in my hometown of Chicago and to have the fans cheering for me like they did...I couldn't ask for anything better. "

-- Former Ultimate Fighter finalist Michael Johnson looked like he has improved both his striking and his submission defense since leaving Greg Jackson's gym and training full-time with the Blackzilians. The fans booed at times when Johnson clinched with Shane Roller and slowed down the pace of the fight, but it was good to see Johnson show some patience: In his last fight, against Paul Sass, he got a little too wild from the top and and was caught in a heel hook. This time Johnson fought safe and smart, and when Roller put him in a lot of trouble on the ground, Johnson kept his composure and got back to his feet. This was the best Johnson has looked.

  • UFC on FOX 2

    Dustin Jacoby strikes Chris Camozzi at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi uses a guillotine choke to submit Dustin Jacoby at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi celebrates his submission win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Camozzi celebrates his submission win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Joey Beltran gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Joey Beltran falls back after getting hit by Lavar Johnson at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson punches Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson drills Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson punches Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Lavar Johnson celebrates his knockout win against Joey Beltran at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson strikes Shane Roller at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller gets some attention between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller has a quick chat with referee Herb Dean at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Shane Roller tries to submit Michael Johnson at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson looks for the finish at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Micheal Johnson defeated Shane Roller via unanimous decision at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Johnson waves to the crowd before his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Eric Wisely's kick is caught by Charles Oliveira at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira tries to finish Eric Wisely at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira catches Eric Wisely in a calf-crusher at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira celebrates his win over Eric Wisely at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Charles Oliveira celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson strikes George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson looks to finish George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson earns a second-round TKO over George Roop at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Cub Swanson celebrates his win at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Jon Olav Einemo catches Mike Russow with a knee at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow tries to finish Jon Olav Einemo at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow is hit in the face by a knee from Jon Olav Einemo at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Mike Russow celebrates his unanimous decision win in front of his hometown crowd at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Brittney Palmer takes her walk around the Octagon between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Nik Lentz catches Evan Dunham with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2 Photos

    Evan Dunham smashes Nik Lentz in the face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham looks for the finish at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham batters Nik Lentz against the cage at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham and Nik Lentz exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham strikes Nik Lentz at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Evan Dunham celebrates his victory over Nik Lentz exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Nik Lentz suffers his second straight loss at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia and Chris Weidman exchange shots at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia knees Chris Weidman at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Weidman hits Demian Maia at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia gets ready to strike Chris Weidman at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Demian Maia and Chris Weidman give each other hgh-five after their fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chris Weidman celebrates his unanimous decision win against Demian Maia at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen hits Michael Bisping with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping connects with a left to Chael Sonnen's face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen takes Michael Bisping down at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping and Chael Sonnen battle at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping connects with a knee against Chael Sonnen with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping takes a breather after the first round at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Arianny Celeste finishes up her lap around the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen gets ready for the second round at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen connects to Michael Bisping's face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen battles Michael Bisping on the ground at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping celebrates after the fight before the decision is read at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping and Chael Sonnen slap hands after their fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen celebrates his unanimous decision win over Michael Bisping at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Chael Sonnen has a memorable speech with Joe Rogan after his fight at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Michael Bisping reacts after suffering his first loss in five fights at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans makes his way to the Octagon at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis gets his ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Bruce Buffer announces the fighters for the main event at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans gets ready for his fight at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans punches Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans traps Phil Davis in a mounted crucifix at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans takes a seat between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis catches Rashad Evans with a right at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans strikes Phil Davis in the face at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans punches Phil Davis in his eye at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans strikes Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans hits Phil Davis with an elbow at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Phil Davis gets a breather between rounds at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans hits Phil Davis with his left hand at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting
  • UFC on FOX 2

    Rashad Evans earns a unanimous decision win over Phil Davis at UFC on FOX 2 at the United Center in Chicago, Ill. on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2012.

    Esther Lin, MMA Fighting



UFC on Fox 2 Quotes
-- "This one sucks. You really hate to lose like this. I felt like I was doing alright and getting good back-and-forth with him. I felt like I had him, but I flat out got caught on this one."--Dustin Jacoby, following his third-round submission loss to Chris Carmozzi. Jacoby entered the UFC last year with a 6-0 record, but he's now 0-2 inside the Octagon and will probably be released.

-- "This win shows that the Strikeforce heavyweights belong here. We're all on the same level and now we're getting a chance to prove it. And the fans are the ones benefitting from it the most because they're getting to see action like this."--Lavar Johnson after his impressive first-round knockout of Joey Beltran. I'm not prepared to say the Strikeforce heavyweights are "all on the same level" as the UFC heavyweights, but I do think Johnson is a great addition from Strikeforce.

Good Call
Referee Rob Madrigal stopped the Lavar Johnson-Joey Beltran fight at exactly the right time, just as Beltran was falling to the ground after repeated uppercuts from Johnson. Referees have a tough job when a fighter is taking a lot of punishment but still standing, and Madrigal stepped in just as Beltran lost the ability to defend himself. The Chicago Tribune ran a story last week questioning whether Madrigal was qualified enough to be refereeing a major card like UFC on Fox 2, but Madrigal acquitted himself nicely.

Bad Call
Referee Herb Dean demonstrated exactly what I focused on with my last Morning After: MMA refs are too inconsistent with the way they handle punches to the back of the head. Shane Roller landed several punches to the back of Michael Johnson's head, and all Dean did was warn Roller while allowing him to maintain his dominant position -- no point deduction, no stand-up, no time out to see if Johnson had been hurt by any of Roller's strikes, and certainly no disqualification, as Mario Yamasaki gave Erick Silva two weeks ago for punches to the back of the head that weren't as flagrant. The UFC and the state athletic commissions need to work together to get every ref on the same page on this rule.

Stock Up
Chris Camozzi had lost his last two UFC fights and needed a win to save his spot on the UFC roster Saturday night. He got it in impressive fashion against Dustin Jacoby, controlling the stand-up in the first couple rounds and forcing Jacoby to tap to a standing guillotine choke in the third.

Stock Down
George Roop had an opportunity to show he's a player in the featherweight division, but he was violently knocked out by Cub Swanson. Roop was looking up at the replay on the United Center big screen as he was walking back to the locker room, and he didn't seem to know what hit him. Roop has lost three of his last four.

Fights I Want to See Next
Jon Jones vs. Rashad Evans and Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen. Watching Evans and Sonnen on Saturday night, it's awfully tough for me to envision either one of them winning their upcoming title fights. But both men have won enough big fights in their weight classes that they've earned No. 1 contender status. I'm looking forward to seeing both of them get their title shots, even though both of them are going to be huge underdogs.

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