UFC Fight Night 82 results: Joseph Benavidez coasts, decisions Zach Makovsky

Joseph Benavidez (24-4) proved to be a step above Zach Mavkovsky (19-7) over three rounds at UFC Fight Night 82 earlier tonight (Sat. Feb. 6, 2016).

Benavidez defeated Makovsky via unanimous decision inside MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Two judges had it 29-28 and the other scored the bout 30-27.

Makovsky landed several takedowns and proved to be a tough opponent, but in the end, the striking of Benavidez was the difference over the course of the three-round fight.

Benavidez, the No. 1-ranked UFC Flyweight, was landing more on the feet and a bit more aggressive in the first, while Makovsky, ranked No. 8, was consistently looking for the takedown. "Fun Size" did score and early takdedown, but Benavidez got back up to his feet rather quickly. He also took the back of Benavidez toward the end of the round just before the horn sounded.

In the second, Benavidez thwarted an early takedown attempt by Makovsky, but the former Bellator bantamweight champion took him down again about half way into the round. Benavidez was again able to get back up to his feet. Makovsky picked a single and took him down again, but still couldn't capitalize or advance position. With a minute left, Benavidez pressed Makovsky against the fence but couldn't land anything significant. Toward the end of the round, Makovsky took "Joe-jitsu" down another time and briefly had his back, but couldn't threaten with a submission before the round concluded.

In the final round, Makovsky pressed Benavidez against the fence to start things off, but the former 125-pound  title contender circled away. Benavidez continued to come forward looking to land, while Makovsky kept ducking under looking for another takedown.

With under two minutes to go in the fight Benavidez landed a good right as well as another left. Makovsky missed a backfist attempt with seconds left and slipped to the canvas. Benavidez followed him, but was pushed away before the horn sounded.

Nothing spectacular by Benavidez, but a solid win that keeps him in line for another title shot. He has now won five straight fights and is now 11-2 in UFC. Meanwhile, it was a tough loss for Makovsky, who has now lost two in row. His record falls to 3-3 in UFC.

For complete UFC Fight Night 82: "Hendricks vs. Thompson" results, including play-by-play, click here.