In the opening bout of the UFC Fight Night 25 "Battle on the Bayou" card in New Orleans, Louisiana tonight (September 17, 2011), Alan Belcher didn't disappoint.
Belcher hadn't fought inside the Octagon in 16 months after suffering a career threatening eye injury that required surgery. He had previously been on a roll, winning four of five including four straight fight night bonuses.
His opponent was UFC veteran Jason MacDonald, who had been victorious in his return to the promotion this past April at UFC 129. MacDonald didn't have a chance.
"The Talent" swarmed MacDonald with punches both standing and on the ground, never giving MacDonald an opportunity to get comfortable.
Belcher turned up the heat, blasting MacDonald with punches and elbows from guard until "The Athlete" had had enough, submitting verbally due to strikes.
"I'm so emotional right now," said an elated Belcher in his post-fight interview. "I've been through so many trials and tribulations. I didn't know if I was ever gonna fight again. I know tonight this is what I want to do. I want to pursue that belt. I'm back baby."
Belcher also cautioned the rest of the middleweight division, admitting that he's become a much more well-rounded fighter in his time off.
"When I'm on the ground, I'm just as dangerous as when I'm standing up. Don't underestimate my ground game."
I'm sure his future opponents won't.