Michael Bisping Achieves Gold in Stunning KO of Rockhold
UK star, Michael Bisping has waited a long time for this moment. After 25 UFC appearances and 18 wins in the UFCs Octagon, he has finally become the UFC Middleweight champion and in dramatic fashion.
In the opening round, a firefight briefly ensued where the Middleweights traded blows and Rockhold (15-2) mixed in some kicks. Then Bisping (28-7) landed a right and a sneaky left hand that hurt Rockhold. Bisping jumped on the opportunity, tagging the Santa Cruz native until he finally falls to the floor where Bisping claimed victory.
Bisping, the former Ultimate Fighter winner, had been pursuing a UFC title shot forever. And by sheer coincidence of original opponent Chris Weidman sustaining a training injury, capitalized on his chance.
The fight was a rematch from UFC Fight Night 55 in November 2014 where Rockhold defeated Bisping via second round submission. This amazing win sets up a rubber match of the ages. But with Chris Weidman still waiting in the wings, it will be interesting to see who gets a crack at the new champ first.
Rances Barthelemy Wins via Split Decision Against Bey
(Photo Credit: Leo Wilson Jr. / Premier Boxing Champions)
Undefeated lightweight world champion Rances “Kid Blast” Barthelemy (25-0) defeated former world champion Mickey “The Spirit” Bey (22-2-1) by split decision last Friday at the Hard Rock Live at the Seminole Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
The three judges scored it 117-110, 116-111, 110-117 in a fight that saw a lot of competitive back and forth action during the middle and late rounds. However, neither fighter was able to take control.
The fight started with an exciting first round in which Barthelemy backed Bey up at the bell, followed by fireworks and an accidental head butt towards the close of round two. Barthelemy stumbled to the canvas as a result with the referee ruling it an official knockdown, the first of Barthelemy’s career.
Bey told the media post-fight his plans to avenge the loss.
(Photo Credit: Leo Wilson Jr. / Premier Boxing Champions)
“I’m ready to get right back after it and chase another belt, said Bey. I’m looking to stay busy and get back in the ring soon.”
