7 Ups & 3 Downs From UFC 247

3. Impressive Ige

We mentioned in our UFC 247 predictions piece that whoever came out with the victory between talented featherweights, Mirsad Bektic and Dan Ige, would make a claim to fight a top ranked opponent next and Ige did just that in this incredibly competitive battle.

Ige looked very impressive in the first round, using his vastly superior striking to tune Bektic up. His boxing combinations had serious power and speed, which forced Bektic to back up a few times. However, as mentioned by Dominick Cruz during the commentary, Ige does seem take the second round off, which is exactly what happened.

Bektic came out all guns blazing, eventually landing a takedown and using wonderful top pressure to slowly, but surely force his way into an arm triangle attempt from the mount. While it wasn't enough to submit Ige - who is an experienced grappler in his own right - it was definitely enough to win him the round.

With their intense battle going down to the third, both men had the chance in the last five minutes of the fight to put their stamp on it. While it was close, Ige's power punching and submission defence helped him secure a very important victory.