The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 15 runner up, Al Iaquinta, took perhaps his biggest step up in competition tonight (Jan. 31, 2015) at UFC 183, taking on Octagon veteran Joe Lauzon in a meaningful Lightweight scrap from MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada.
And he passed the test in impressive fashion.
Iaquinta open the action looking for a single-leg takedown, twice, but Lauzon was able to remain upright. Lauzon landed a nice upper cut, which Iaquinta countered with a combination. Lauzon opened up in the next exchange and wobbled
Iaquinta, who was able to clear the cobwebs quick and battle back.
Midway through the first round, both fighters stood in the center of the Octagon and traded shots. A straight right from Lauzon back up Iaquinta again, but he seems unhurt. Lauzon landed a body blow, and as Iaquinta went to duck, Lauzon grabbed his neck and went for a guillotine, which was unsuccessful.
Iaquinta finished the round strong, but it was close.
To start the second, Iaquinta appears to be the fresher fighter coming our of their corners. But, it's Lauzon who lands the best punch, another straight right hand. Iaquinta using his legs more in this round, which appears to be a good strategy. Lauzon attempted a takedown, but Iaquinta was able to step out and the striking battle resumed.
Iaquinta landed a huge bomb that floored Lauzon, who somehow got back to his feet. But, he was beaten from pillar to post, refusing to go down despite eating repeated blows -- he was clearly out on his feet. The referee was on top of the action and eventually intervened, but not after Iaquinta torched him mercilessly en route to a second round technical knockout.
For complete UFC 183: "Silva vs. Diaz" results, including play-by-play updates, click here.