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UFC 163 featured a flyweight bout between dynamic strikers Ian McCall and Iliarde Santos. Both fighters were fighting for a chance to move up in the flyweight rankings, which is currently being dominated by champ Demetrious Johnson.
McCall started off the first round strong, utilizing excellent footwork and using a lot of kicks. Santos threw heavy leather in the second and third, but never really connected solidly. McCall increased his pressure and even landed some quick takedowns. McCall ended up getting a unanimous decision, which was important because it was his first UFC win.
Now, McCall has his job secured and is one step closer to a flyweight title shot, which isn’t a very deep division in the UFC at the moment.
McCall is one of the few fighters to give Johnson a run for his money. In their first meeting, many felt McCall did enough to warrant a decision, but a judging error ultimately made the fight a majority draw. Maybe one more win will move him next in line for a title shot.
McCall is one of the best flyweights in the world when he is on point. He has excellent kickboxing skills, and his footwork and movement is second to none. However, he has struggled with a lot of things in his personal life, which have hindered him from reaching his full potential.
It seems like this fight with Iliarde is a good step in the right direction, and hopefully he can put it all together both inside and outside of the cage to cement his status as a title contender.
