UFC 174: 10 Things To Look Forward To

8. Tyron Woodley Proving To Critics That His Victory Over Carlos Condit Wasn't A Fluke

Usually when you beat an elite fighter, you are rewarded with a title shot and a plethora of new fans. That hasn't necessarily been the case for Tyron Woodley. He's been presented with a fight that isn't even a number one contender's fight any longer according to Dana White. Not many people are giving his victory over Carlos Condit much credit. How can you not feel sympathy for him? He controlled Condit through the first round and caught him clean with a few right hands. Eventually, he showed great timing and took Condit down which forced the injury. Even though the victory didn't justify a title shot, he still should have been presented with a number one contender's bout. Also, he shouldn't be chastised for winning the way he did. He's facing another long-rangy fighter, yet Condit and MacDonald have far different styles. MacDonald won't take risks like Condit did by throwing risky head kicks or flying knees. He's far more deceptive, although more conservative. Woodley will have to be wary of his reach whenever he rushes in. It has proven to be MacDonald's most essential attribute in recent fights. It will also be difficult for him to successfully complete takedowns. Of course, Demian Maia took MacDonald down and controlled him throughout the first round. It was the only time we've really seen him get manhandled like that. I'm not sure if Woodley's top game is that special, since we've yet to see him utilize it yet. With his power though, these questions could prove to be irrelevant from one punch.