What could have been a meteoric UFC rise for Jason Brilz was slowed when the judges, against the popular consensus, gave Antonio Rogerio Nogueira the decision in their three-round fight last year. In front of 55,000 fans at UFC 129, Brilz would have another chance to make a big impact.
Standing in his way was Vladimir Matyushenko, the powerful, seasoned veteran who would certainly not go down easily. Sure, Jon Jones made quick work of the veteran, but few possess the talent of Jon Jones, and it was a near certainty that Matyushenko would put Brilz to the test.
Was Brilz ready to overcome the veteran? Or, would he suffer another setback?
The result follows:
Vladimir Matyushenko b. Jason Brilz via KO (punches) at :20 of Round One
*Story of the Fight: There was little to this fight–Matyushenko caught Brilz with a punch and immediately followed up to get the knockout. Brilz initially protested the decision, but there was nothing to the argument–he was clearly “out,” as least as much as needed to make the judge’s decision perfectly justified.