Neil Magny gave a stellar performance at UFC Vegas 8 as he bested welterweight legend Robbie Lawler in the co-headliner of the night.
In a depiction of sheer domination, Magny employed brilliant gameplay and brought on deadly precision and technique to bag a win. In the post-fight interview, he shared his strategy coming into the fight. Magny said:
“Initially, my gameplan was to just keep my range. Force him to miss big and counter his shots. Eventually, tie up his arms, really wear him down and make him work. I’m really surprised that he is the one that initiated the takedowns. But once I was able to reverse position and take control, I was alright from there.”
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"These guys already knew I was here but it's just getting to the point where they can't avoid me anymore." – @NeilMagny talks about defeating Robbie Lawler and the message that he's sending to the welterweight division 🔊⬆️#UFCVegas8 results: https://t.co/BV3A81fnkM pic.twitter.com/QNwx2PBH8w
— UFC News (@UFCNews) August 30, 2020
Truly, Magny dominated in every sphere of the game. Even as Lawler tried to close the distance, Magny had his close-quarter combat game polished and ready. He engaged in clinches and used his supreme length to deliver some piercing strikes.
After ‘Ruthless’ attempted his first failed takedown, Magny landed four takedowns over the entirety of the fight. Thus, he brought home his third victory this year.
Is Neil Magny a threat in the welterweight division?
Magny went out of action in 2018 following a KO loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio. Although talks regarding a fight in May 2019 did surface, Magny had to pull out as he tested positive for Di-Hydroxy-LGD-4033.
He returned in March 2020 and has fought thrice since then. His victory over the former welterweight champion tonight certainly sets him ahead in the division. Moreover, he now holds the second-most wins at welterweight, coming in after Georges St-Pierre.
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Clearly, his comeback has been spectacular. With a three-fight win streak, Magny sent a message to the division. He said:
“These guys already knew I was here, but it’s just getting to the point where they can’t avoid me anymore. Right now, there is nothing holding me back. I’m like an uncaged animal.”
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Well, Magny is one beast that every fighter will look out for henceforth. After all, not everyone dominates one of the most respected fighters like he did.
What do you think lies ahead for Neil Magny? Let us know in the comments section!