See what the pros had to say about the absolutely insane UFC Sao Paulo main event between Thiago Santos and Eryk Anders.
UFC Sao Paulo turned out to be an action packed card. A card chock full of finishes, with a number of notable bouts. Thales Leites and Evan Dunham retired on the night. Charles Olievira moved into sole possession of the UFC submission victory, passing Royce Gracie. And in the main event, Thiago Santos and Eryk Anders took part in an all-out war.
It’s a cliche, to be sure. But what was witnessed in the UFC Fight Night 137 was very much a war. Santos threw the best he had, and Anders, taking the fight on six day’s notice, hung right there with him. He looked to land the takedown, and as the fight progressed, he began to convert. Yet Santos, a veteran, dangerous everywhere, began battering an already exhausted Anders with elbows as he drove in for a takedown at the end of the third round. Blow after blow, Anders seemingly unable to find any protection from the assault. The bell sounded to end the round, but Anders was unable to continue. He was unable to even stand, collapsing on a couple of attempts before his corner pulled him to his feet.
It was a gutsy effort on short notice, but it was Thiago Santos coming out on top. Anders, thankfully, made it out of the octagon under his own power. He’ll be back. But in the meantime, it was Santos’ night at UFC Sao Paulo. If he chooses to stick around light heavyweight, it will be interesting to see how he fares against a true 205lb’er.
See the pros react to the UFC Sao Paulo main event below!
Let's Go! #UFCSP pic.twitter.com/7Roo7GuXNb
— UFC (@ufc) September 23, 2018
These guys are throwing down! I just hope they don’t wear them selves out too fast!! @ufc
— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) September 23, 2018
These guys are throwing some heaters!#UFCSP
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 23, 2018
As always, fence-grabbing will not be called in this fight. #UFCSaoPaulo
— The Mane Event™ (@EliasTheodorou) September 23, 2018
A slobberknocker #UFCSP
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 23, 2018
Santos is tired! Eryk can take a punch! Holy hell this isn’t going five rounds!!! #UFCSP
— Julian marquez (@JMarquezMMA) September 23, 2018
Tripe B!! These Big Boyz Bang’n!!! @ufc
— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) September 23, 2018
What a war!!!
— Rafael dos Anjos (@RdosAnjosMMA) September 23, 2018
Never say die!!!
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) September 23, 2018
Stop the fight!!
— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) September 23, 2018
What a main event ! @danawhite
— Platinum Mike Perry (@PlatinumPerry) September 23, 2018
Anders collapses on his way to his corner after the round. Never quit. All heart. Respect. But he wasn't ready for Santos (via TKO). #UFCSaoPaulo pic.twitter.com/oAhniflHyt
— The Mane Event™ (@EliasTheodorou) September 23, 2018
I really don't think he'll be cleared to fight in time after that… https://t.co/JC17pcCMjp
— The Mane Event™ (@EliasTheodorou) September 23, 2018
Gutsy performance from @erykanders. I think it was the fatigue more than the elbows. Being a pressure fighter, it’s hard to step up on six days notice for a 5 round fight. Still a great performance. #UFCSãoPaulo
— Michael Chiesa (@MikeMav22) September 23, 2018
Damn @marcgoddard_uk you really stole that shit from @erykanders. Straight put him in position to take them elbows. I’m calling bullshit
— Kevin MTP Lee (@MoTownPhenom) September 23, 2018
He lost control of the fight and then made up his own position https://t.co/72goQUO5Nc
— Kevin MTP Lee (@MoTownPhenom) September 23, 2018
People who don't know the work we put in, or the sacrifices, will mock Anders collapsing trying to get back to his corner. I saw a fellow fighter who didn't want to yield, even after all that punishment, although his body was done. I have nothing but respect for him. #UFCSaoPaulo pic.twitter.com/MBlKAvVoDL
— The Mane Event™ (@EliasTheodorou) September 23, 2018
Head up @erykanders, you’re monster. @TMarretaMMA, as always, great performance.
— Anthony Smith (@lionheartsmith) September 23, 2018
If you strike w Santos you’re playing with fire. Congrats bud @TMarretaMMA !! #UFCSaopaulo
— éS (@EricSpicely) September 23, 2018
Marc trippin!… but SHIT! What a fight!!! #UFCSP
— Mike Jackson, Esq. (@TheTruthJackson) September 23, 2018