The Pro Take: Khabib, Sterling and More Sound Off on Dillashaw’s Return

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T.J. Dillashaw, UFC Vegas 32
T.J. Dillashaw, UFC Vegas 32 Credit: Alex Behunin/Cageside Press

The UFC Vegas 32 main event was set to answer one question — and that was a simple one. How would T.J. Dillashaw look after two years away, and (hopefully) fighting clean after his USADA suspension?

The ex-champ had tested positive for EPO (think Lance Armstrong), relinquished his title (not that he had a choice), and become an object of ridicule. A big performance Saturday against Cory Sandhagen, however, would go a long way to earning at least a little redemption.

After a decent opening round, however, things took a turn for the two-time bantamweight champ. One, he injured his knee, informing his corner between rounds that something had popped. Two, in the second, Sandhagen started to come on, leaving a cut over Dillashaw’s eyebrow that clearly hampered his vision.

Just when things were looking dire for Dillashaw, he found a second wind. Taking momentum back, he’d arguably win the third, and that left the championship rounds— handing Dillashaw a hefty experience advantage. In the end they’d go the distance, with a very back-and-forth fight appearing tied heading into the final frame.

Come the scorecards being announced, it was Dillashaw taking a split decision, with scores of 47-48, 48-47, and 48-47.

PROS GIVE THEIR TAKE

Here’s how the pros saw the main event of UFC Vegas 32 on Saturday, which saw the returning T.J. Dillashaw victorious after two years out of action.

Just a Number?

Champ Talk

We’ll Stick with Herb

Let’s Go!

Close Scrap

Dillashaw via SD

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