UFC 201 results: Benoit edges Serrano, Perez beats Rivera in bloody battle

The first two fights on the main card of UFC 201: Lawler vs. Woodley can best be described using the “WTF?!” chatspeak. Ryan Benoit and Erik Perez came away victorious, but there were plenty of odd (but entertaining) moments during their respective fights.

Erik Perez def. Francisco Rivera via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 29-28) – Bantamweights

Fireworks were expected in this one and Rivera cracked Perez with a pair of left hooks. Perez went upstairs with a kick which was partially blocked. Rivera landed a leg kick, slipped in a right hand, and got another outside leg kick. Francisco looked like the faster fighter, already knowing he had the power advantage. Rivera had a kick caught and Perez used that opportunity to score with a few right hands instead of taking him down. Brief takedown by Perez before Rivera popped back up against the cage. Crisp flying knee by Perez followed by a left hook. Perez picked up the pace and found his timing better as the 1st round drew to a close.

Perez started round 2 with an inside leg kick that put Rivera off balance. Action slowed somewhat for a minute or so, but Perez’s movement was more fluid. Rivera stuffed a takedown and then nearly drilled Perez with a big shot. Spinning elbow by Perez landed in Rivera’s chest. Perez was working the body more often. Caught kick by Perez turned into a takedown attempt but Rivera defended very well. Erik fought more methodically. Stiff right hand popped Perez. Leg kick by Perez was near the groin and Rivera stopped as if it …

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