Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) returned to the hurt business last night (Sat., Dec. 2, 2017) for UFC 218, which took place inside Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. In the main event of the evening, Max Holloway defeated Jose Aldo to for the second time to hold on to his Featherweight title in a highly-entertaining rematch (see it again here), while Francis Ngannou knocked out Alistair Overeem in the co-headlining act with a very vicious and violent uppercut to potentially set up a title fight against Stipe Miocic (recap).
Biggest Winner: Max Holloway
For the second time in five months, Max Holloway took it to and defeated Jose Aldo, one of the most dominant former champions in all of MMA, knocking out the Brazilian bomber in round three of their main event rematch. It was an exciting bout that had its work cut out to live up to the rest of the card. And deliver it did, as the two men gave it all they had, providing fight fans with yet another barn-burner. In the end, though, Holloway was simply too much for Aldo, defeating him more soundly than the first time, proving that he indeed has his number. With Jose firmly in his rear-view mirror, Holloway can continue to add to his “Blessed” era with some new challenges. And in the 145-pound weight class, there are plenty to keep him busy for a while, starting with Frankie Edgar.
Runner Up: Francis Ngannou
Ngannou firmly cemented himself as the undisputed No. 1 contender to Stipe Miocic’s 265-pound title after delivering one of the more violent knockouts in recent memory over Overeem. With ten straight wins to his credit, going unbeaten thus far inside the Octagon, Ngannou proved without a doubt why he should get the next title shot — sorry (not sorry) Werdum — and why he’s the owner of most powerful punch. The sky is the limit for “The Predator,” and the rest of the division has indeed been put on notice. He’s coming for you, Stipe.
Biggest Loser: Jose Aldo
The former powerhouse now has suffered two straight losses and three of four overall. But going 0-2 against Holloway is devastating for his championship hopes, as getting a trilogy fight against Max is not — and should not — be in the cards anytime soon, if ever. Holloway does indeed have Aldo’s number, which means the Brazilian bomber has plenty to think about moving forward, which could include a move up to Lightweight. He can always stay at 145 to collect fat checks, but if he ever wants to vie for gold, he needs to pack on the pounds.
To get full UFC 218 play-by-play updates and results click here.