Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was back in action earlier today (April 6, 2013) with UFC on FUEL TV 9: "Mousasi vs. Latifi," emanating from the Ericsson Globe Arena in Stockholm, Sweden.
There were a lot of questions as to whether or not Ryan Couture was the "Real Deal" after his brief stint in Strikeforce, which is why Ross Pearson -- owner of that moniker -- was the perfect opponent to welcome him to the Octagon.
The gameplan was simple for this contest: Couture had to stay out of harm's way by grinding his foe against the fence, while utilizing his wrestling to keep the fight on his terms. That's pretty much how most of the first round went, and midway through the second, a lot of British fans were scratching their heads.
Oh ye of little faith.
Pearson, the superior striker, kept his composure and never let the in-your-face style of Couture get him frustrated. He eventually found his opening in round two during an exchange against the fence, staggering his opponent with a shot to the body before a thunderous combination sent Randy's son crashing to the canvas for the first technical knockout loss of his career.
Looks like there's only room for one "Real Deal" in Sweden.
For all the UFC on FUEL TV 9 results, updates and live play-by-play click here.