It is not entirely clear why Stefan Struve vs. Sean McCorkle is co-main-eventing a major UFC event, but their UFC 124 battle definitely brings its share of intrigue.
Leading into the heavyweight fight, Sean McCorkle made a name for himself with some biting trash talk, and young-looking Stefan Struve has responded with anger not previously seen in his UFC career. Both have declared their intent to win this fight by stoppage–Struve wants a knockout, while McCorkle wants to submit his opponent.
Who will win? The result follows:
Round One: Stefan Struve silenced “Big Sexy,” but following the fight, he showed sportsmanship and respect for his opponent.
The fight initially looked to be falling in favor of McCorkle, who scored an early takedown and grabbed Struve’s arm for a kimura. McCorkle, at times, looked like he might finish the manuever, but Struve defended well and eventually escaped.
McCorkle retained control on the ground, but Struve eventually used a kimura of his own to score a reversal into mount. From top position in mount, Struve pounded away on his opponent as referee Yves Lavigne stepped in to solidify the TKO victory.
After the fight, Struve helped his defeated opponent up, effectively ending the stream of trash talk that generated pre-fight interest.
Stefan Struve b. Sean McCorkle via TKO (strikes) at 3:55 of Round One.