Phil Davis: Leaving UFC for Bellator MMA was a business decision, not personal

Last week, it was revealed that former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight contender, Phil Davis, jumped ship to join rival mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion Bellator MMA.

Get all the details here.

The news caught many off guard, as "Mr. Wonderful" had long been one of the brightest stars in the division and had a healthy relationship with the ZUFFA higher-ups. Davis also carried a 4-2 record in his last six outings inside the Octagon, so his departure was not performance-based.

That's according to Phil himself, who revealed on The MMA Hour that jumping ship had nothing to do with any kind of beef with promotion president Dana White. Instead, he called his decision a businesses move, not a personal one.

"It's like anything, fighting is a job for me. I love it, but at the same time, it is what pays the bills. It wasn't like I wanted to get away from UFC, not at all. I absolutely love everybody at UFC. I thank Dana and Lorenzo for giving me my big break in MMA and giving me a chance to fight on the big stage. I have nothing but gratitude to express for those guys. I would have liked to sign a big contract and stay with UFC, sure, that was my first option. But as more options became available, I went with other options. It's hard to look at it emotionally. I am looking at it as a business move. There is probably no one out there, when offered a better opportunity that says, 'No, I'll stick with what I'm used to.'"

Davis did admit that the offer UFC gave him was comparable, but not what he wanted. Still, he leaves the company he's called home for the last five years on good terms.

"This is not a parting of ways where it's like, 'I hate you, you hate me and I am out of here' or an 'I quit' type of deal. Not at all. The guys at UFC are businessmen and they are running an organization. Same thing with me, I am a businessman and I run my own business."

Davis revealed that prior to his fight against Ryan Bader at UFC on FOX 14, he was offered a contract extension by UFC, but opted to decline the offer as a form of betting on himself in hopes of getting a better deal with a win over "Darth."

Whoops.

Even after losing to Bader, Davis says the same offer was still on the table, but he chose to sign with Bellator instead. Without going into too much detail, Phil revealed that the deal offered to him by the Viacom-owned promotion was ultimately better than the one his former employer offered him.

So in the end, jumping ship was a no-brainer.

And while UFC is undoubtedly the bigger promotion, at the end of the day, no one can blame Davis for moving to a smaller company for more money to be able to support himself and his family a bit better.

Because when it's all said and done, Davis -- just like every other pro fighter -- fights for money.

The Monday After: Final thoughts on UFC on FOX 15

UFC 186 results, live streaming updates

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) limps into the Great White North with a re-worked UFC 186: "Johnson vs. Horiguchi" pay-per-view (PPV) event, which is set to storm Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on Sat., April 25, 2015.

It's not what it once was, but the show must go on regardless.

With the rematch between Bantamweight champion T.J. Dillashaw vs. Renan Bara postponed because of injury, carrying UFC 186 fell on the "Mighty" shoulders of Flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson, who will collide with Kyoji Horiguchi in the pay-per-view (PPV) main event this Saturday night (April 25, 2015) inside Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

That's not all.

UFC 186 will also feature a Middleweight match up between Michael Bisping and C.B. Dollaway, a showdown that was promoted to co-main event status when Quinton Jackson was legally barred from returning to the promotion to fight Fabio Maldonado.

All that and much more.

MMAmania.com will deliver LIVE round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of the entire UFC 186 fight card below, starting with the Fight Pass "Prelims" matches online, which are scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. ET, and then the remaining under card balance on FOX Sports 1 at 8 p.m. ET before the PPV main card start time at 10 p.m. ET.

Many of our readers check-in before, during and after the televised action to share their thoughts on all the exciting action. Therefore, feel free to leave a comment (or 186) before you split and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show -- it always turns out to be a great discussion.

Keep in mind that we will also be the spot for the latest news, recaps and post-fight analysis after "Johnson vs. Horiguchi."

Without further delay, see below for the latest UFC 186 results. (Note: This will go from the bottom up; therefore, scroll toward the bottom for the latest detailed round-by-round action.)

UFC 186 QUICK RESULTS:

UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson vs. Kyoji Horiguchi --
Michael Bisping vs. C.B. Dollaway --
Steve Bosse vs. Fabio Maldonado --
John Makdessi vs. Shane Campbell --
Thomas Almeida vs. Yves Jabouin --
Patrick Cote vs. Joe Riggs --
Sarah Kaufman vs. Alexis Davis --
Bryan Barberena vs. Chad Laprise --
Olivier Aubin-Mercier vs. David Michaud --
Chris Clements vs. Nordine Taleb --
Valerie Letourneau vs. Jessica Rakoczy --
Aisling Daly vs. Randa Markos --

UFC 186 PLAY-BY-PLAY (PPV MAIN CARD):

UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson vs. Kyoji Horiguchi

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:
Round four:
Round five:

Final result:

-end-

185 lbs.: Michael Bisping vs. C.B. Dollaway

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

205 lbs.: Steve Bosse vs. Fabio Maldonado

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

155 lbs.: John Makdessi vs. Shane Campbell

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

135 lbs.: Thomas Almeida vs. Yves Jabouin

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

UFC 186 PLAY-BY-PLAY (FOX SPORTS 1 "PRELIMS"):

185 lbs.: Patrick Cote vs. Joe Riggs

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

135 lbs.: Sarah Kaufman vs. Alexis Davis

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

170 lbs.: Bryan Barberena vs. Chad Laprise

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

155 lbs.: Olivier Aubin-Mercier vs. David Michaud

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

UFC 186 PLAY-BY-PLAY (FIGHT PASS "PRELIMS"):

170 lbs.: Chris Clements vs. Nordine Taleb

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

115 lbs.: Valerie Letourneau vs. Jessica Rakoczy

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

115 lbs.: Aisling Daly vs. Randa Markos

Round one:
Round two:
Round three:

Final result:

-end-

Floyd Mayweather tops Manny Pacquiao at boxing box office, but 'Pac Man' eats up sponsorship 'Money'

Undefeated boxing sensation Floyd Mayweather Jr. gets top billing -- and top payout -- for his upcoming pay-per-view (PPV) super fight against Manny Pacquiao, which takes place on May 2, 2015 inside the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

But he's playing second fiddle in the sponsorship bucks.

That's because "Pac Man" is eating up all the sponsorship "Money," according to Forbes.com, putting pen to paper for Foot Locker, Butterfinger, Wonderful Pistachio, and Nike, just to name a few. Mayweather, meanwhile, has no personal sponsors -- though event sponsors like Tecate help generate PPV buys through gratuitous marketing campaigns.

And with a 60/40 split, that means more moolah for Junior, and less lame-ass publicity.

Mayweather vs. Pacquiao is expected to become the biggest boxing fight of all time, even if it's five years late, and will either cement the "Money" legacy, or leave it short-changed. But if "Pac Man" does emerge victorious, please don't ask him for a selfie.

Unless you're this person.

For more on "Mayweather vs. Pacquiao" fight, including the latest updates click here. SB Nation also has a comprehensive "Pacquiao vs. Mayweather" news stream right here. And to check out a "Mayweather-Pacquiao" fight video preview click here.

UFC overhauls Reebok compensation plan, scraps rankings influence following fighter outcries

When Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) revealed its landmark sponsorship deal with Reebok, one that would eliminate all other sponsors from the Octagon, it promised to compensate fighters based on their media rankings (see them fluctuate here).

As expected, that went over like a lead balloon.

Especially considering the subjective nature of the ranking system. Sure, UFC President Dana White promised to recruit "ethical guys" to make sure everything was on the up-and-up, but the payment plan was still considered erratic and top heavy.

That's why the promotion picked up its kaiser blade (some folks call it a sling blade) and took it behind the woodshed, only to return with a revamped system that works on tenure, helpfully explained by Sports Business Journal biz whiz Alex Silverman (via The Underground):

When the UFC released the initial draft of its outfitting policy in January, it stipulated that fighters' compensation for a given bout would be based on their rankings. But based on feedback collected during the information sessions, the UFC has opted instead to institute a tiered system based on tenure, or number of UFC bouts fought. Fighters also will be credited for bouts sanctioned by World Extreme Cage Fighting and Strikeforce, both of which were purchased and shuttered by UFC parent company Zuffa.

The new system places combatants into tiers of 1-5 fights, 6-10 fights, 11-15 fights, 16-20 fights and more than 21 fights. The only exception applies to title fights, as both title challengers and reigning champions will receive greater compensation. The UFC declined to share specific dollar figures for each class.

The deal takes effect this July (sneak peek here).

White insists the promotion won't make a profit from aligning itself with Reebok and that all of the money generated will be distributed among its athletes. That was of little consolation to some fighters (like this one), who are hemorrhaging cash flow as we speak.

It will be interesting to hear what the talent has to say this summer. That said, what do you think of the change in payout ... fair or foul?

Video: UFC veteran fights man with Down syndrome, loses by second-round submission

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight veteran Nate Quarry, who burst onto the mixed martial arts (MMA) scene as part of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 1, retired in 2012 after 16 professional fights and countless battles with injuries.

But on April 18, 2015, "The Rock" returned to the cage to help a friend in need.

Quarry, who is currently suing his former employer, laced up the gloves to help a fighter with Down syndrome, Jake "The Snake" Beckmann, achieve his lifelong dream of competing in MMA. Not only did Beckmann win his pro debut at "Rumble at the Roseland," he also captured the world heavyweight championship in the process.

Have a look.

KPTV - FOX 12

Whoop a UFC veteran and win the heavyweight title in your first fight?

Impressive.

"They have dreams, they have goals, just like the rest of us," Quarry said after their exhibition fight (via MMA Fighting), which also raised $1,000 for Create the Connection charity. "Why should we try to tell them how they should live their lives? If we can break them out of the box I think that's the right thing to do."

The 19-year-old "Snake" won by second-round submission.

Bas Rutten vs. Evander Holyfield? 'El Guapo' reveals crossover fight was 'pretty close to happening'

"I was almost actually fighting Holyfield at one time. Evander Holyfield. Yeah, kickboxing match. But then they called me and they suddenly said 'no more knees'. And then they called me like a week later again 'no more low kicks'. They started taking all the weapons away. It was hilarious, but then he chose to get back into boxing. But that was pretty close to happening."

Legendary mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter and former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) titleholder Bas Rutten (via Submission Radio) holds wins over several notable competitors throughout his storied combat sports career, and nearly added a famed pugilist to his long lost of signature victories. In fact, a kickboxing bout against four-time world heavyweight...

Monday Morning Hangover: What's next for Lyoto Machida?

Despite the setback, "The Dragon" still has what it takes to make some noise.

Another weekend of fisticuffs has come and gone as UFC on FOX 15 blew the roof off the Prudential Center last Saturday night (April 18, 2015) in Newark, New Jersey.

Plenty of fighters were left licking their wounds, including Felice Herrig, who was knocked around the cage for three rounds by rising sensation Paige VanZant (recap). And Cub Swanson, who was beat down by Max Holloway before getting choked out (see it here).

But which fighter is suffering from the worst post-fight hangover, now 48 hours removed from the show?

Lyoto Machida.

"The Dragon" looked to get himself back into title contention by stopping the surging Luke Rockhold, who himself was looking to make his case for his first-ever shot at an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) title and perhaps a much-desired rematch against Vitor Belfort.

It didn't take long to realize who wanted it more.

Rockhold, like the smooth character he is, took his time and studied his foe -- who had some early success with a few strikes -- by walking him down, absorbing some shots and imposing his size and strength advantage.

After sending Machida to the canvas with a blow to the side of the head, Rockhold showed much-improved ground work by wearing down the jiu-jitsu black belt and attempting one submission move after another. Though he couldn't lock one in early, Luke looked leaps and bounds ahead of Lyoto when it came to mat work.

With five seconds left in the first round, Rockhold delivered an elbow to Machida's head, which at first glance didn't look too powerful. But once "The Dragon" got to his feet, it was clear the impact had done its damage as he struggled to find his balance on his way to the stool.

He didn't look any better once round two started, as "The Dragon" was visibly shaken, only to get taken down once again and be on the receiving end of some ground-and-pound damage by his heavier foe. Eventually, a determined Luke sunk in a fight-ending rear-naked choke that left the former light heavyweight champ dazed and confused (video replay here).

While the win undoubtedly catapulted Luke to the front of the title race (sorry, Jacare), the loss is a huge setback for Machida, who is now 3-2 in the 185-pound weight class.

But, it's not the end of world for Lyoto, not even close.

At 36 years of age, he still has some time to make some noise in a sport that is now being dominated by younger, stronger athletes. Will we see the second coming of "The Machida Era" at some point down the road?

Probably not.

But we can still see one of the most elusive and creative strikers in the game get involved in some highly-entertaining fights. And should Michael Bisping plow through C.B. Dolloway at UFC 186 this coming weekend in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, a match up between "The Count" and "The Dragon" sounds like an interesting one.

Any objections?

Latest UFC 186 fight card and rumors for 'Johnson vs Horiguchi' PPV on April 25 in Montreal

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) flyweight kingpin Demetrious Johnson will look to keep his dominant 125-pound reign intact by turning away top-ranked division contender Kyoji Horiguchi in the UFC 186 pay-per-view (PPV) main event, while British superstar Michael Bisping will compete in the co-featured fight of the night against C.B. Dollaway.

Event: UFC 186: "Johnson vs. Horiguchi"
Date: Sat., April 25, 2015, on pay-per-view (PPV)
Location: Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada

UFC 186 Main Event:

125 lbs.: UFC Flyweight Champion Demetrious Johnson vs. Kyoji Horiguchi

UFC 186 Co-Main Event:

185 lbs.: Michael Bisping vs. C.B. Dollaway

UFC 186 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

205 lbs.: Steve Bosse vs. Fabio Maldonado
155 lbs.: John Makdessi vs. Shane Campbell
135 lbs.: Thomas Almeida vs. Yves Jabouin

UFC 186 FOX Sports 1 "Prelims" (8 p.m. ET):

185 lbs.: Patrick Cote vs. Joe Riggs
135 lbs.: Sarah Kaufman vs. Alexis Davis
170 lbs.: Bryan Barberena vs. Chad Laprise
155 lbs.: Olivier Aubin-Mercier vs. David Michaud

UFC 186 Fight Pass "Prelims" (6:30 p.m. ET):

170 lbs.: Chris Clements vs. Nordine Taleb
115 lbs.: Valerie Letourneau vs. Jessica Rakoczy
115 lbs.: Aisling Daly vs. Randa Markos

For more news and notes on UFC 186: "Johnson vs. Horiguchi" click here.

UFC on FOX 15 results, recap, and wrap-up: Luke Rockhold is the next big thing at middleweight

Missed this most recent UFC on FOX event? Or perhaps looking to revisit some of the top stories from "Machida vs. Rockhold?" You're in luck!

With the exception of Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza, who did what we all expected him to against sacrificial lamb Chris Camozzi, it was a rotten day (Sat., April 18, 2015) for the old guard of mixed martial arts (MMA) inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

That's where top middleweight contender Lyoto Machida was strangled into submission by Strikeforce import Luke Rockhold. In addition, featherweight gate keeper Cub Swanson was choked out by "Blessed" Max Holloway, while The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 20 standout Felice Herrig was beaten pillar-to-post by strawweight upstart Paige VanZant.

The UFC on FOX 15 main card was about as decisive as it gets.

For those of you who missed any or all of the action in "Dirty Jersey," your pals right here at MMAmania.com have gathered all the relevant links from last weekend's big shebang, including live results, play-by-play, videos, reactions, and so much more.

A virtual feast!

UFC on FOX 15: The fights

Live results and play-by-play

Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold fight review and analysis

Ronaldo Souza vs. Chris Camozzi fight review and analysis

Cub Swanson vs. Max Holloway fight review and analysis

Felice Herrig vs. Paige VanZant fight review and analysis

UFC on FOX 15: The highlight reels

Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold

Ronaldo Souza vs. Chris Camozzi

Cub Swanson vs. Max Holloway

Felice Herrig vs. Paige VanZant

UFC on FOX 15: Post-fight housekeeping

Post-fight press conference video

Bonuses and awards

Dana White reacts to main event

Luke Rockhold comes face-to-face with Chris Weidman

Cub Swanson is shattered

Jimy Hettes is all ears

UFC on FOX 15: The morning after

Winners and losers

Next matches to make

Injuries and medical suspensions

Dana White: Paige VanZant could be the next Conor McGregor

Who is the real middleweight No. 1 contender?

Other notable stories from this past weekend:

TUF 21 adds a special bonus for UFC fans

Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov results and play-by-play

Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov event recap

Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov video highlights

Floyd Mayweather comments on Conor McGregor

New Anderson Silva video featuring his drug follies

That should just about cover it.

But don't get too comfy. We have a major pay-per-view (PPV) event this weekend (Sat., April 25, 2015) as UFC 186: "Johnson vs. Horiguchi" lights up the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, featuring a flyweight title fight and the return of a middleweight gatekeeper.

For more upcoming UFC events click here.

UFC on FOX 15 results recap: Cub Swanson vs Max Holloway fight review and analysis

Last night (Sat., April 18, 2015) Cub Swanson and Max Holloway slugged it out at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In brutal beat down, Max Holloway demolished his opponent. Find out how below!

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) featherweights Cub Swanson and Max Holloway battled last night (April, 18, 2015) at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Swanson tore up some highly ranked featherweights while chasing a title shot, but Frankie Edgar derailed all that in a five round beat down. After that disappointing loss, Swanson was quite motivated to rebound.

Holloway has really come into his own in the last couple years, leading to a five fight win streak. In his scrap with Swanson, Holloway had another chance to take a major step up in competition and prove he belonged among the elite.

He undoubtedly does.

Holloway used plenty of lateral movement to start the bout, flicking out body and high kicks. While the two had a brief feeling out process, Holloway really started to take control the exchanges pretty early on. Using his reach and a diverse set of strikes, Holloway was tagging his opponent nearly at will.

Holloway did a tremendous job in this round of making Swanson miss. After landing his own combination, Holloway would bounce back out of range. Holloway also did a nice job keeping his guard high and deflection while on the inside, meaning that Swanson landed very few clean punches in the first round.

Highly impressive start for the Hawaiian.

The second round was more of the same, as Holloway picked his opponent apart. Swanson tried to step up the volume late, but it resulted in him getting stunned with a jump knee to the liver and a tight overhand right. Holloway was simply too agile and too active, as Swanson absorbed dozens of strikes.

"Killer Cub" needed something major heading into the third round.

However, it was Holloway who continued his spectacular performance. About a minute into the round, Holloway dropped Swanson with a body shot and nearly finished an arm triangle. Swanson managed to get back to his feet, but Holloway kept the head on.

Before long, Holloway connected with a series of punches that stunned Swanson once again. This time, Holloway wrapped up a guillotine and forced Swanson to his back. Holloway inched into mount despite his opponent's attempts to resist, forcing the submission hold.

This was an utterly dominant performance by Holloway. He was incredibly active on offense, defensively slick, and brutal with his jiu-jitsu attack. He's come a long way since losing to Dustin Poirier on a short notice debut, and this was the finest performance that he's put forth thus far.

One thing did remain consistent since the beginning, and that's his body work. Holloway's frequent trips to his opponent's mid-section pay off quickly, as he's so incredibly active the work builds up quickly. Then, his opponent is having difficulty breathing, and he'll accelerate the process with a choke.

Off the strength of this victory, Holloway has inserted himself among the elite. Unless he takes a step back in competition, the only options for him are Chad Mendes or the winner of Frankie Edgar vs. Urijah Faber.

Swanson never turned it on in this fight. Whether this was because Holloway was just that much better, Swanson simply having an off night, or the residual effects of a lengthy and violent career is hard to tell, but Holloway was the much better man last night.

For his next match up, Swanson needs a bit of a rebound fight. He's still an entertaining fighter, but it's now pretty clear that his chances of ever contending for the title are quite slim.

At UFC on FOX 15, Max Holloway capped off an amazing performance with a submission win over Cub Swanson. Can the Hawaiian fighter make his way to a UFC title shot?

For complete UFC on FOX 15 "Machida vs Rockhold" results and play-by-play click HERE!

Video highlights! Watch Max Holloway choke out Cub Swanson last night at UFC on FOX 15

Max Holloway is unquestionably one of the hottest fighters in mixed martial arts (MMA) today.

"Blessed" earned his sixth straight victory last night (Sat., April 18, 2015) with an incredible performance over Cub Swanson on the main card of UFC on FOX 15, which took place inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

After beating Swanson at his own game for the majority of three rounds, Holloway put "Killer" Cub away with a highlight-reel guillotine choke late in the fight. It was the second straight submission loss for Swanson following a six-fight winning streak.

Although many fight fans were high on the Hawaiian coming into UFC on FOX 15, there were some questions as to whether or not Holloway could compete with the division's...

After UFC on FOX 15 victory, Dana White compares Paige VanZant to Conor McGregor: 'She's got it'

But I didn't hear VanZant calling out Joanna Jedrzejczyk...

UFC on FOX 15 results recap: Ronaldo Souza vs Chris Camozzi fight review and analysis

Last night (Sat., April 18, 2015) Ronaldo Souza and Chris Camozzi rematched at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. To the surprise of no one, Souza submitted Camozzi early in the fight. Find out how below!

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweights Ronaldo Souza and Chris Camozzi clashed for the second time last night (April 18, 2015) at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

While Souza was supposed to square off with a fellow top contender in Yoel Romero, an injury scrapped that match up. Instead, Souza ended up inside the cage with Chris Camozzi once again, looking to showcase his incredible talents.

Camozzi took on "Jacare" on short notice once before, and it didn't end well for him ... again. Though it got him back into UFC, Camozzi was still intent on making sure things went differently this time.

Camozzi looked to circle as the fight started, flicking out quick inside low kicks and jabs. Souza pressured his opponent and drilled him with a couple hard right hands, while Camozzi hung tough and looked for counter punches. Then, Souza stopped screwing around and shoot for a double leg, tossing Camozzi onto his back.

From there, "Jacare's" gorgeous jiu-jitsu was obvious. He sliced through Camozzi's guard with ease and moved into the mount. Camozzi attempted to scramble back to his guard, but Souza jumped on his arm. Though Camozzi kept his hands clasped momentarily, Souza quickly ripped through his defenses and finished the fight.

Is there really anything to analyze here?

This fight went almost exactly the same as their first meeting a couple years ago. Camozzi was out-struck, taken down, and then quickly submitted. And if some absurd circumstances force them to fight a third or thirtieth time, the result will probably be exactly the same.

"Jacare" is just so, so much better.

Unfortunately for Souza, the main event was announced as a title eliminator, meaning he needs to earn another victory before battling for the belt. Hopefully, the UFC can match him up with Yoel Romero once again if the Cuban heals up quickly.

Camozzi may have lost, but at least he's back in UFC. I won't criticize his performance or offer a better suggested path, as there was really nothing he could have done. Instead, let's just hope Camozzi is matched appropriately with a middle- to lower-tier middleweight in his next match up.

At UFC on FOX 15, Ronaldo Souza tore through Chris Camozzi for an early submission as expected. Can the Brazilian make his way to the UFC title?

For complete UFC on FOX 15: "Machida vs. Rockhold" results and play-by-play click HERE!

Watch Lucas Matthysse vs Ruslan Provodnikov full fight video highlights from HBO Boxing last night

So you wanna be a f*cking fighter?

Well, then, you might want to reconsider after watching highlights of the brutal 140-pound scrap between Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov, which took place last night (Sat., April 18, 2015) on HBO Boxing inside Turning Stone Resort & Casino, Verona, New York.

In the end, Matthysse would head back to Argentina with a majority decision after 12 grueling rounds. He would jump out to an early lead, maintain it in the middle rounds and then hang on for dear life as the Russian clubber did everything in his power to steal it late.

However, it was a matter of too little, too late for Provodnikov.

He simply absorbed too much punishment, including an eye-splitting head butt, to mount a meaningful...

UFC on FOX 15 results recap: Lyoto Machida vs Luke Rockhold fight review and analysis

Last night (Sat., April 18, 2015), Lyoto Machida and Luke Rockhold dueled at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In a violent performance, Rockhold smashed his opponent before locking up a submission. Find out how below!

To watch full fight video highlights of Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold from UFC on FOX 15 last night click here.

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweights Lyoto Machida and Luke Rockhold clashed last night (April 18, 2015) at UFC on FOX 15 inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Machida had more than proven himself an elite middleweight prior to this fight and was looking to earn a second title shot in his new division. To earn another showdown with Chris Weidman, he'd have to take out on of the most talented athletes in the division.

Meanwhile, Rockhold had been destroying most of his opponents as well. If Rockhold managed to defeat Machida in similar fashion to cap off his win streak, the Californian would be more than deserving of a title shot.

After a couple quick exchanges that seemed to favor Machida, a right hook from Rockhold knocked Machida to his knees. Rockhold jumped on a guillotine, which allowed him to reverse Machida and land in top position.

Once Rockhold got on top, his brilliant jiu-jitsu and size advantage allowed him to control his opponent masterfully. Whenever Machida got too aggressive with his attempts to scramble, Rockhold would score with some nice punches and elbows. Rockhold then finished the round from back control, nearly locking in a rear naked choke and landing a nasty elbow at the bell.

An excellent start for the American Kickboxing Academy (AKA)-trained fighter.

Machida was clearly feeling the effects of the last couple minutes of the opening frame when the second round started. He wasn't moving well at all, which allowed Rockhold to tee off on him with some hard body kicks. Then, the two collided a bit, and Rockhold's superior strength threw Machida down to the mat.

The Californian wasted no time, as he jumped at Machida and landed in a crucifix position. Before long, Rockhold was in full back mount with Machida flattened out, and the end was imminent. Rockhold slipped in a rear naked choke -- actually, it looked almost like Machida allowed the choke to sink in -- and finished the fight.

This was a near flawless performance for Rockhold. He was just a bit over-eager to exchange with Machida early on, which caused him to absorb a couple punches. Outside of that, Machida was barely able to accomplish anything offensive, as Rockhold never let go of the momentum after pulling it to his advantage.

Rockhold's jiu-jitsu is simply fantastic. After reversing Machida with the guillotine, his top control was impeccable, as he slowly advanced position while prevent his opponent's attempt to stand and delivering elbows strikes. Eventually, it all came together in a rear naked choke.

After this dominant win, Rockhold undoubtedly deserves a title shot. Regardless of whether Weidman defends his title or Belfort pulls off the upset, the winner should face off with Rockhold in Madison Square Garden.

Machida had a decent first minute that was surely inspired some hope for "Dragon" fans, but after that it all fell apart. Both times he fell to the mat, it seemed that Machida simply bounced off him or was pushed to the ground. Either way, it was likely due to Rockhold's massive size advantage.

After such a brutal loss, it's tough to see where Machida goes from here. The former champion now has losses to the current strap-hanger and the apparent number one contender, meaning it will be difficult to work his way back into the title picture.

His situation at light heavyweight isn't much different.

At this point, there are really only two options. Machida can either look to get back in there immediately and put quickly put some wins together (see Cerrone, Donald) or Machida can accept that his time as a title challenger is over and look for some big money fights.

It will be interesting to see where Machida goes from here.

At UFC on FOX 15, Luke Rockhold smashed his opponent en route to a submission win. Will the Californian become a UFC champion?

For complete UFC on FOX 15: "Machida vs. Rockhold" results and play-by-play click HERE!

Video highlights! Watch Luke Rockhold submit Lyoto Machida last night at UFC on FOX 15

It was no secret that Luke Rockhold was a very talented mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter.

But, this talented?

Rockhold absolutely dismantled Lyoto Machida last night (Sat., April 18, 2015) in the main event of UFC on FOX 15, which took place inside Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The American Kickboxing Academy (AKA)-trained standout -- a former Strikeforce Middleweight champion -- completely suffocated, abused and then finished the former Light Heavyweight champion.

And he needed less than two rounds to get it done.

It's fair to say that no other fighter has turned in such a dominant bell-to-bell performance against the "Dragon." While others such as Mauricio Rua and Jon Jones have had decisive success over the Brazilian,...

UFC on FOX 15 stream: 'Machida vs Rockhold' live results, updates, recaps and more

UFC on FOX 15 results live online: UFC returns to primetime network television TONIGHT (Sat., April 18, 2015) with "Machida vs. Rockhold," which features a likely No. 1 Middleweight contender eliminator match in the five-round main event. UFC on FOX 15, which takes place at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., will feature the return of former Light Heavyweight champion, Lyoto Machida, who will look to get another 185-pound title opportunity at the expense of former Strikeforce champion, Luke Rockhold. In addition, the man who has next dibs in the same division, Ronaldo Souza, will look to keep his place in line at the expense of last-minute replacement, Chris Camozzi, in the co-featured fight of the night after Yoel Romero was forced out with an injury. MMAmania.com will deliver bell-to-bell results coverage of UFC on FOX 15 online LIVE all evening and (late) night, including latest fight updates, fight recaps, video highlights, winners, losers, press conference streams and all the other post-fight fallout you can handle well into Sunday. Buckle up! We'll have all the news that's fit to print and much, much more. We've got UFC on FOX 15's entire card -- including "Prelims" under card matches on Fight Pass/FOX -- all covered below in our comprehensive story stream below.

While it took a big hit last week (thanks to this), UFC on FOX 15 is still one of the best mixed martial arts (MMA) fight cards of the year, featuring a compelling headliner between two evenly-matched opponents, as well as a strong undercard that sorts things out in the featherweight and women's strawweight divisions.

That's where Cub Swanson and Max Holloway will bang it out for a spot in the crowded 145-pound pecking order, not long after Felice Herrig and Paige VanZant collide in a 115-pound showdown with serious title implications (even more so after this).

All that and so much more.

MMAmania.com will deliver LIVE round-by-round, blow-by-blow coverage of the entire UFC on FOX 15 fight card below, starting with the Fight Pass "Prelims" matches online, which are scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. ET, and then the remaining preliminary card balance on FOX at 6 p.m. ET before the FOX main card start time at 8 p.m. ET.

Many of our readers check-in before, during and after the televised action to share their thoughts on all the exciting action. Therefore, feel free to leave a comment (or 15) before you split and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show -- it always turns out to be a great discussion.

Keep in mind we will also be the spot for the latest news, recaps, and post-fight analysis following "Machida vs. Rockhold."

Without further delay, see below for the latest UFC on FOX 15 results. (Note: This will go from the bottom up; therefore, scroll toward the bottom for the latest detailed round-by-round action.)

UFC ON FOX 15 QUICK RESULTS :

Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold

Ronaldo Souza vs. Chris Camozzi

Cub Swanson vs. Max Holloway

Felice Herrig vs. Paige VanZant

Jim Miller vs. Beneil Dariush

Ovince St. Preux vs. Patrick Cummins

Corey Anderson vs. Gian Villante

Aljamain Sterling def. Takeya Mizugaki by submission (arm-triangle choke) at 2:11 of Round Three

Tim Means def. George Sullivan by submission (arm-triangle choke) at 3:41 of Round Three

Diego Brandao def. Jimy Hettes by TKO (doctor's stoppage) at 5:00 of Round One

Chris Dempsey def. Eddie Gordon by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

UFC ON FOX 15 PLAY-BY-PLAY :

185 lbs.: Lyoto Machida vs. Luke Rockhold

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Round 4:

Round 5:

Final result:

-end-

185 lbs.: Ronaldo Souza vs. Chris Camozzi

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

145 lbs.: Cub Swanson vs. Max Holloway

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

115 lbs.: Felice Herrig vs. Paige VanZant

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

155 lbs.: Jim Miller vs. Beneil Dariush

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

205 lbs.: Ovince St. Preux vs. Patrick Cummins

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

205 lbs.: Corey Anderson vs. Gian Villante

Round 1:

Round 2:

Round 3:

Final result:

-end-

135 lbs.: Takeya Mizugaki vs. Aljamain Sterling

Round 1: Sterling flicks out a front kick. Head kick blocked and Sterling ties up. Mizugaki grabs the rear-waistlock, then sprawls on Sterling's shot. Sterling shoots again and looks to change levels. On eminute in. Sterling looking for a single-leg. He moves to a standard clinch and lands some knees to the body. Sterling gets him briefly to his knees. Two minutes in. Mizugaki doing a good job of staying on his feet but not of making space. Sterling kneeing his legs. The referee breaks them up with two minutes to go.

Mizugaki moving forward. Sterling lands a body kick, avoiding a counter right. Leg kick from Sterling, who eats an uppercut on the way up. Another good leg kick from the American. Check hook from Sterling as Mizugaki connects. Sterling hunting for a single-leg and gets Mizugaki to his knees. One minute to go. Mizugaki scrambles up immediately and Sterling grabs the rear waistlock. Sterling trips him down, Mizugaki pops up. Mizugaki turns and they're chest-to-chest on the cage once again. Sterling misses a spinning backfist but lands a pair of punches before the bell. 10-9 Sterling.

Round 2: Mizugaki blocks a head kick. Sterling shoots in and gets him to his seat on the fence. Mizugaki pops back up and tries a trip of his own. Knee to the body from Mizugaki. One minute in. Good elbow by Sterling as he separates. Mizugaki lands an uppercut as he sprawls on Sterling. Teep by the American. Mizugaki tries a flying knee that doesn't connect. Counter right does connect. Two minutes in. Mizugaki denies a level change. Another teep by Sterling, who trips Mizugaki to the mat from a single-leg. Mizugaki back to his feet, Sterling trips him back down and takes his back. Both hooks in for Sterling. Two minutes to go.

Body triangle now for Sterling. One minute to go. Mizugaki tries to roll, can't dislodge him. Round ends there. 10-9 Sterling.

Round 3: Mizugaki opens with a two-punch combo. Teep from Sterling. Front kick, right hook from Sterling. Mizugaki sprawls on a takedown and backs off, only for Sterling to lunge forward and complete an ankle pick. Mizugaki on his rear against the fence. One minute in. Sterling quickly takes his back once more. Mizugaki can't remove him with a roll. Sterling turns and latches onto an arm-triangle as Mizugaki sweeps his way into top position. Despite it being from the bottom, it's enough to force the Japanese veteran to tap.

Final result: Sterling def. Mizugaki by submission (arm-triangle choke)

-end-

170 lbs.: Tim Means vs. George Sullivan

Round 1: Means checks a low kick. Sullivan barrels forward and eats a knee from the plu, before they separate. Low kick from Means. One minute in. Means eats a right hand, having defended most other strikes. MEans head kick just misses. Left hand lands for him. Right hand by Sullivan and Means ties up, landing an elbow. Check right hook after they split. Two minutes in. Right hand by Sullivan as he shoots in. Pressing Means against the fence, lands a knee to the body. Means hits the switch, landing a knee and a pair of elbows after reversing. Two minutes to go.

Means advancing steadily. Left hook from Sullivan, then another at the end of a combination. Means low kick. Leg kick once again. Sullivan lands a body kick. One minute to go. Low kicks from Means. Sullivan right to the body. Means to the body in return. Front kick to the body by Means, Sullivan lands an elbow. Left hook lands for him and he avoids a spinning elbow at round's end. 10-9 Means.

Round 2: Means slips a right hand, lands a counter left soon after. Body kick from Means. Check hook lands. Sullivan connects with a kick to the body. Means moves him to the fence, but eats an elbow. One minute in. Means to the body. Front kick to the body. Left hook by Sullivan, then a 3-2. Left hook gets Sullivan's attention, as does an uppercut. Means in pursuit, eats some retaliatory right hands. Means 1-2, then a pair of knees as Sullivan ties up. Means hurls him down into half guard. Two minutes in. Means makes some space, lands a left hand and gets back on top in half guard. Short punches from Means. Nice left hand, then a pair of knees as Sullivan stands. Two minutes to go.

Sullivan connects with a right hand. 1-1-2 from Sullivan. Sullivan head kick blocked. Sullivan seems to be fading. Means front kick to the body. Short uppercut by The Dirty Bird. One minute to go. Sullivan with a good right hand, then a combination. Means mugs him inside in return. Means lands a straight left, takes an elbow. Right hook from Means. Means decks him with an elbow and starts dropping bombs, trying to put Sullivan away. "The Silencer" makes it to the bell. 10-9 Means.

Round 3: Sullivan has his hands on his knees as he leaves the corner. Means lands a front kick to the body and a hard pair of low kicks. Sullivan right hand misses. Right hook by Means. Sloppy shot by Sullivan, who does land a Superman elbow. Knees from Means. Sullivan left hook. Means low kick. One minute in. Straight left by Means, right uppercut by Sullivan. Means to the body with the front kick, then the face with the left hand. Means hits a foot sweep and moves into side control. Means knees the body. Two minutes in. Short elbows now. Sullivan just holding him close, occasionally making an effort to turn away. Two minutes to go.

Means pops him with a left and denies an attempt to scramble up. Sullivan scooting towards the fence but gives up an arm-triangle. It's not long before he taps.

Final result: Means def. Sullivan by submission (arm-triangle choke)

-end-

145 lbs.: Diego Brandao vs. Jimy Hettes

Round 1: Brandao moving forward as Hettes circles. Hettes checks a low kick, avoids a body kick. Jimy catches the next leg kick and takes Brandao down. The Brazilian scrambles up, lands some hard shots in the clinch, and takes Hettes down. Hettes scrambles back up, so Diego slams him down once again. One minutes in. Brandao takes Hettes' back, then latches onto an arm-triangle when Hettes looks to get out. Gettes gets back out and Brandao takes side control. Hettes regains guard quickly. Two minutes in. The American controlling posture well. Hettes transitions into a leglock from an omoplata, using it to stand. Brandao pressing him against the cage, Hettes reverses. Diego grabs the fence to avoid a trip, earning a rebuke. Two minutes to go.

Nice knee by Hettes. Brandao trips him down after a few more knees connect, landing on top in open guard. Brandao lands some good elbows, but gets swept into mount. He latches onto a heel hook, which Hettes avoids as they return to their feet. One minute to go. Hettes ties up and takes him to the fence, eating a left hand as they separate. Hettes misses with a knee at the bell. 10-9 Brandao.

The fight's over. Looks like Brandao burst Hettes' cauliflower ear.

Final result: Brandao def. Hettes by TKO (doctor stoppage)

-end-

185 lbs.: Chris Dempsey vs. Eddie Gordon

Round 1: Using Five Finger Death Punch's version of Bad Company instead of the original? Dempsey with a rough start.

Dempsey looking to pressure early. They exchange a few times at close range. Gordon buzzes him with a right hand. Dempsey ducks another right and takes him to the fence. Eddie reverses quickly. One minute in. Gordon looking for a single-leg, can't get it and lands a right on the break. Dempsey lands a cross. Gordon stops another shot and takes him to the fence. Dempsey briefly latches onto a front headlock before separating. Uppercut by Gordon. Two minutes in. Lead right snaps Dempsey's head back. Gordon lands a counter right after taking a two-punch combo and sprawls on a double-leg. Gordon in the front headlock position, his trainers yelling at him not to let him up. Dempsey gets up anyway. Dempsey wading in, leading to a series of quick trades. Two minutes to go.

Gordon sprawls on another takedown, working towards the plum on the feet. Dempsey grabs a front headlock, loses it but has good position on the fence. Dempsey landing some body shots, eats a hard knee to the body that gets his attention. One minute to go. Eddie circles off the fence, then bops Dempsey with a counter right. Dempsey eating some big counters, including a right that stumbles him. Counter uppercut. Dempsey plodding forward, landing some heavy punches but eating a good many. Dempsey ties up on the fence until the bell. 10-9 Gordon.

Round 2: Gordon sticking out his jab, eats a right hand. Gordon ducks a right hand that Dempsey slips while throwing. Dempsey still plodding, ties up on the fence. He looks to change levels and instead gets reversed. Gordon separates after landing a knee. One minute in. Left hook by Gordon, then a lead right. Body shot answered by Dempsey, who lands a good combo as he gets in on a leg. Gordon denies it, reverses, and takes Dempsey down into side control. Two minutes in. Gordon digging for an arm-triangle, doesn't have the position. Dempsey gives up his back but manages to break Gordon's seatbelt grip as they stand. Good right hand by Dempsey and this time it's Gordon taking him to the fence. Two minutes to go.

Back to the center. Dempsey connects with a hard 1-2, eats an overhand right soon after that prompts another trip to the fence. Gordon looks somewhat fatigued. Dempsey separates. One minute to go. Dempsey shoots from way too far out and is stuffed. Lead right from Dempsey. 3-2 by Chris, who finally gets Gordon down against the fence. Gordon uses an overhook until the bell. 10-9 Gordon.

Round 3: Dempsey as aggressive as ever, ties up but gets reversed on the fence. Dempsey gives up a takedown in pursuit of a loose guillotine. Eddie passes to side control and gets out, after which Dempsey stands back up. Hard right hand from Dempsey, Gordon answers. Gordon sprawls on a shot, but Dempsey grabs a headlock as he goes to the fence. One minute in. Eddie reverses, then separates. 1-2 connects for Truck, then Dempsey gets to him with a left hook. Both men winging bombs. Dempsey shoots in, gets sprawled on. Two minutes in. Eddie in the front headlock, moves to the rear waistlock. Dempsey gets space and they return to the center. Lead right by Gordon, then another nice right hand. Gordon sprawls on him yet again and works for a single-leg. Two minutes to go.

Dempsey working for a guillotine, loses it. Gordon on top in guard. Dempsey sweeps his way up and goes to the fence. He separates when Gordon looks to reverse. Both men flinging tired punches until Dempsey shoots yet again. one minute to go. Dempsey working for a double-leg, switches to a single and completes it. Gordon scrambles up, gets dumped into bottom side control. Dempsey looks for ground-and-pound until the bell. 10-9 Gordon.

Final result: Dempsey def. Gordon by split decision

-end-

Matthysse vs Provodnikov results, LIVE fight HBO boxing updates

This? This is a good fight.

Two of the most fearsome men in all of boxing will battle it out in what is, on paper, a surefire contender for "Fight of the Year" as Argentine head-knocker Lucas Matthysse takes on "The Siberian Rocky," Ruslan Provodnikov, in the main event of an HBO split-site doubleheader.

MMAmania.com will deliver LIVE coverage, starting with the HBO broadcast at 9:45 p.m. ET.

Matthysse (36-3, 34 KO) came up short in the biggest fight of his career, a close but clear loss to division kingpin Danny Garcia on the undercard of the Mayweather-Alvarez showdown in 2013. Since then, he's been in one "Fight of the Year" (an 11-round war with John Molina) and one blowout (a two-round stoppage of Roberto Ortiz), but it's Garcia who's in his crosshairs.

Provodnikov (24-3, 17 KO), who reportedly signed to fight Matthysse just thirty minutes after the official offer, burst onto the scene with his tremendous 2013 bout with Tim Bradley, where he took the former titleholder to his limits in a close loss. His last three fights have seen him maul Mike Alvarado, drop a split decision to Chris Algieri, and stop the husk of Jose Luis Castillo.

The evening will open with another junior welterweight fight as undefeated lightweight champ Terence Crawford (25-0, 17 KO) makes his 140-pound debut against Thomas Dulorme (22-1, 14 KO) for a vacant WBO belt.

MATTHYSSE VS. PROVODNIKOV QUICK RESULTS:

Junior Welterweight: Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov

Junior Welterweight: Terence Crawford vs. Thomas Dulorme

MATTHYSSE VS. PROVODNIKOV PLAY-BY-PLAY RESULTS:

Lucas Matthysse vs. Ruslan Provodnikov

Round one:

Round two:

Round three:

Round four:

Round five:

Round six:

Round seven:

Round eight:

Round nine:

Round ten:

Round eleven:

Round twelve

Final result:

-end-

Terence Crawford vs. Thomas Dulorme

Round one:

Round two:

Round three:

Round four:

Round five:

Round six:

Round seven:

Round eight:

Round nine:

Round ten:

Round eleven:

Round twelve

Final result:

-end-

UFC on FOX 15 fight card: Lyoto Machida vs Luke Rockhold fight preview

Lyoto Machida and Luke Rockhold will scrap TONIGHT (April 18, 2015) at UFC on FOX 15 inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. In a match up of two elite martial artists, what adjustments must be made for either man in order to claim victory? Find out below!

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweights Lyoto Machida and Luke Rockhold will clash TONIGHT (April 18, 2015) in the main event of UFC on FOX 15 inside the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

Machida has more than proven himself an elite middleweight, as his sole loss came in an absolute war with the current champion Chris Weidman. Since then, he reconfirmed his position as a top contender by dispatching of CB Dollaway in about a minute.

Though Rockhold lost his debut to the spinning foot of Vitor Belfort, he's been battering and finishing his recent opponents. Now, Rockhold will look to make it four straight against the best opponent he's ever faced, potentially earning a title shot in the process.

Let's take a look at the keys to victory for both fighters.

Lyoto Machida

Record: 22-5

Key Wins: Rashad Evans (UFC 98), CB Dollaway (UFC Fight Night 58), Ryan Bader (UFC on FOX 4)

Key Losses: Chris Weidman (UFC 175), Jon Jones (UFC 140)

Keys to Victory: Machida is a masterful karate striker, which has resulted in nine knockout victories while rarely getting touched himself. In addition, Machida's distance control and strong takedown defense make him very difficult to drag down to the mat.

This fight will very likely be decided by which man is more effective at range. Obviously, Machida will be looking to keep his back off the fence and score with occasional bursts, but Rockhold won't make it easier for him.

Similarly, Machida will not simply let Rockhold walk him into the fence and tee off. There's a decent chance their excellent footwork will largely even out, as Rockhold will occasionally herd his opponent into strikes while Machida's angles will sometimes payoff in a slick combination.

In short, Machida needs to kick more than his opponent. They're both dangerous kickers, so simple activity can really shift the tide to either man.

He certainly doesn't want to lose a close controversial decision due to being hesitant.

Luke Rockhold

Record: 13-2

Key Wins: Ronaldo Souza (Strikeforce: Barnett vs Kharitonov), Tim Kennedy (Strikeforce: Rockhold vs Kennedy), Michael Bisping (UFC Fight Night 55)

Key Losses: Vitor Belfort (UFC on FX 8)

Keys to Victory: Rockhold is one of the most well-rounded martial artists in the sport. He's also an athletic specimen, large for the division, and has a penchant for finishing fights in the very first round.

Rockhold mentioned in interviews leading up to this bout that he believes his high level of skill in each area of mixed martial arts (MMA) will lead him to victory. While implementing his nasty grappling game against Machida will be difficult, Rockhold should definitely threaten with it.

Even getting into the clinch against Machida is difficult, but Rockhold should have the footwork to pull it off, though takedowns may be out of the question early on. Unlike many fighters, Rockhold doesn't simply stall from the clinch, as he delivers brutal knees into his opponent's liver.

If Rockhold is able to force Machida to react to clinch and takedown attempts, standing with "The Dragon" will become much easier.

Bottom Line: This bout could determine the next challenger to the middleweight throne.

Unfortunately for Machida, whether or not he earns a title shot tonight is not entirely under his control. If "Jacare" Souza defeats Camozzi -- and in all likelihood, he will -- then Souza will probably earn the shot over Machida. On the bright side, he'd only be one more win away from a title shot after defeating one of the middleweight divisions' best.

Should Machida lose to Rockhold, he would find himself in a rather difficult position, as Machida is 36 years old and deep into his career. He doesn't appear to be slowing down in the least, but it's difficult to say if there's time for another full run to the title with two recent losses to younger fighters.

On the other hand, Rockhold will likely receive a title shot with a win. That would've been up in the air had Souza defeated Yoel Romero, his original opponent. However, there's really no comparing a victory over former champion Lyoto Machida to a second win over recently released Chris Camozzi.

A loss would be a major setback for Rockhold. The Californian is undoubtedly in the prime of his career and has displayed the skills of a potential champion. This is his time to shine, and a setback would force him to waste time slaying fighters ranked below him rather than challenging for a world title.

Will Lyoto Machida continue to find success as a middleweight, or will Luke Rockhold take out the former champion?