"I feel I had some holes in my game and Clay Guida and Greg Jackson did a good job of having a good game plan. I gotta go back to the drawing board and just get better everywhere. He did a good job staying on top. I couldn't get my submissions off. I attempted a lot, I hit him a lot, it's just... I understand how the game works. He controls you, you lose the rounds so... I didn't do enough to get up or get off my back so big up to Clay. I'm going to work on it and come back stronger."
-- Anthony Pettis opines on his loss to Clay Guida at the post-fight press conference last night (June 4, 2011) at The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 13 Finale in Las Vegas, Nevada. The flashy and and electric striker was stoned and stifled by the relentless takedowns of "The Carpenter," dropping a three-round decision in the process. It was a crushing defeat for "Showtime," who loses his spot in the crowded lightweight title picture. That said, it's arguable -- especially now -- as to whether or not he was ever ready for the UFC elite to begin with. Was last night simply a blip on the radar or a symptom of a bigger problem? While Guida is an outstanding wrestler with solid takedowns and serviceable top control, he doesn't compare to the beasts at the top of the division, guys like Frankie Edgar, Gray Maynard and Jim Miller. Pettis may no longer be in the discussion as far as the top 155-pound stalwarts go, but will he get there eventually? After all, he's just 24 years-old with a ton of room to grow and immeasurable natural talent. The sky is the limit. But will he reach his full potential in a division loaded with grappling gurus? Sound off, Maniacs.