A "U-S-A" chant broke out before they could even get underway.
When they did, Weidman opened with kicks, one low, one high, then one low again. Then he was pushing with kicks and it seemed clear he wanted to gauge the distance and keep Machida at bay.
About one minute in, a chant for Machida broke out, so never let it be said an American crowd isn't fickle.
Like he always seems to be, "The Dragon" was patient, hanging back and avoiding any of the champion's offense. When he finally engaged, it was a kick to the body that Weidman used to attempt a takedown.
One he couldn't complete.
Countering striking followed. Weidman pressured while Machida circled away. He countered a low kick with a hard straight left hand. He was getting the timing down and sneaking in with shots but missing on his counters.
The first round came to a close with both guys looking for an opening but failing to find one.
It's close.
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