Pros React to Main Event War Between Santos and Anders at UFC Sao Paulo

Thiago Santos UFC
Credit: Mike Sloan/Sherdog.com

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!