This fight was a mess from the get-go. I think everyone understands that Connor needed a “return match” after his loss to Khabib but this one was pretty easy; too easy. In other words, it was a softball. All respect to Cerrone. He is no doubt one of the greatest and a UFC legend for sure. However, this fight was a mismatch. Cerrone fought like someone who is on his way out (of the UFC). Donald Cerrone turns 37 in late March. Meanwhile, Connor is 31 1/2 years old; right in his prime. On top of that, Cerrone has a long wrap sheet: a total of 49 (36-14) fights in the UFC, losing two of his last four fights (both by KO).
Now, even though Khabib dominated Connor throughout their bout, it’s important to understand that before their match, Connor was training for a boxing match. And not just any boxing match, a match against a swift, fast boxer. Fast, but not strong. Connor most likely didn’t do as much weight and/or resistance work as he normally would have for an MMA match throughout the time he trained for Floyd. He most likely didn’t practice takedown defense as much and probably didn’t hit the weights as much. I am not making an excuse for Connor – Khabib is no doubt the lightweight’s best. However, my point is that if Connor was going to come back different in any way – it was going to be stronger. Now, when you compare Connor and Cowboy alongside you’ll realize that they’re both kickboxers. And we all know who the better and more hard-hitting kickboxer is. We also know whose been training extensively in wrestling so Cowboy out-wrestling Connor is out of the question.
Jake's Take: MMA 