What were the major takeaways from UFC 244?
UFC 244 was a bit of a frustrating experience. While the event itself felt satisfying in most aspects, the ending unfortunately left much to be desired.
After a third round of back and forth action between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz, the anticipation for round four was through the roof.
Then we saw the cageside physician give Nate Diaz a once over as he inspected the cuts above and below his right eye. It was the first sign of things to come.
When the doctor whispered into referee Dan Miragliotta’s ear there was a sense of pure dread that quickly swept over the MSG crowd that extended to the millions of viewers watching all around the world.
Then big Dan raised his arms in the air and waved off the fight.
It was one of those moments that you both entirely understand yet completely disagree with. The doctors and officials are present on fight day with the sole job of ensuring that a fighter has the capability to properly acquit themselves in a contest.
That said, Nate Diaz is a warrior who has been badly cut in fights before, fought with a mask of blood and still pushed through to get the victory. The battle of “Baddest Mother Fucker” in the UFC was ended not by a devastating knockout, not by a inescapable submission, not even by decision after an absolute war. Instead, the battle was decided by doctor stoppage.
All that said, Jorge Masvidal was putting in work as he battered Nate Diaz from pillar to post for the first three rounds of the contest. While Diaz may have turned up the pace in the fourth round and potentially finished Masvidal during the twilight of the fight, from the evidence we received in the first three frames you could just as easily assume the Miami gangster would have continued his onslaught as the battle slogged on.
At the end of the day we can’t be sure what would have happened. What we can all be sure of is that Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz are both Bad Mother Fuckers. Masvidal for his no nonsense attitude and surgical fighting ability. Diaz for his own ability and willingness to continue fighting despite the odds against him.
What are the other major takeaways from UFC 244?
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
