Liddell KO earns Evans immediate title shot
In a press conference held after UFC 88, Dana White announced that Rashad Evans would next be facing Forrest Griffin for the light-heavyweight title:
“(UFC CEO) Lorenzo (Fertitta), (UFC matchmaker) Joe (Silva) and I got together and thought yeah, he deserves the title shot,” White said. “How could you say, ‘No, he doesn’t deserve the shot’ after [the Liddell fight]?”
White said he had a date in mind but wouldn’t share it until the organization has the opportunity to announce some other upcoming cards.
Rashad's KO was certainly spectacular, but does he deserve the next title shot? I think it's a toss-up between him and Lyoto Machida. Machida hasn't had quite as stunning of a finish in a fight as Rashad did against Liddell, and Machida hasn't been around the UFC quite as long as Evans, but Machida is also undefeated in the UFC and has been patiently working his way up the ranks.
It would be foolish to make Evans and Machida fight for number one contender status, especially since Dana previously stated that he hoped Liddell would win the fight, so he could then fight Griffin for the title, but if Evans gets the next title shot, how much longer will Machida be in limbo?
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Comments
Machida and Werdum are
Machida and Werdum are getting the shaft (more for Werdum). However, I don't think you can argue too much with Evans getting the title shot first. He's way more recognizable, has at least two spectacular KTFO's in the UFC and he's unbeaten too. Machida will just have to keep waiting and hopefully keep fighting better and better fighters (which he hasn't necessarily done up to now...)
Machida needs a big win
Machida needs a big win befor he gets a title shot... put him against Wandie or Rua hell... how about a rematch with him and Franklin? Someone that I will be impressed to see him beat. I dont feel bad for Machida. His record is pretty, but he needs one more quality win.
this totally ruined UFCs
this totally ruined UFCs plan for a griffin liddel superfight. got to give evans props though...he deserves his shot, and even though he's undefeated i don't think i've ever heard him b*tch about too much. good for him.
bullshit Underboss
bullshit
Underboss MMAfia
Head of the West Coast Family
2x Ultimate Challenge Champion
Forrest's style will
Forrest's style will overwhelm Evans, just like Wanderlai's overwhelmed Jardine's. Evans through a good punch, but has never had someone with an attacking style like Forrest come at him. I think this one will be quick and painful after Forrest catches Evans while he's running.
Wardog
Evans is a Great wrestler
Evans is a Great wrestler and a Jackson trained grappler, I'm sure he will be fine in there. Not to mention he is stronger.
EERS_1_Fan
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