Rua played a very technical game that didn't allow Machida to capitalize as he has on past opponents. The reason I say Machida didn't do much, is because of the way Rua fought. I had Rua winning the fight 4 rounds to 5, as you, and it's ridiculous ROBBERY that Machida was given the V. Had he tried to actually go out and win the fight I don't think I'd be so annoyed, I know he's a counter fighter, but he has always been selectively aggressive. It seemed as if that was missing in this fight.
I believe Goldie mentioned that Joe was only speaking of one fighter, but Rogan is no Shogun nuthugger. Joe just goes off on tangents about certain fighters in fights, that's just how he is. But I think he was prompted, as well, because Shogun was being the aggressor and trying to pick apart Machida, who seemed content to hang back and mount no offense.
Shogun had the more successful offense, he landed more strikes, he maintained octagon control and was aggressive. These are criteria that is used to score a fight. Striking, grappling, aggression, and Octagon control. All which were in favor of Shogun.
Oh, and I was very disappointed with Okami. Did he just not bother to show up last night? Sonnen is an elite level fighter, but Okami should have been able to manhandle him. Sometimes, he just seems to hang back and let things happen. I don't understand that style of fighting.
And I guess I need to stop picking favorites. Freakin' Rothwell and Hardonk.
