Dan Radoff
Song Yadong (16-4-1, 1NC) made it six straight victories in his UFC career, taking a close decision victory over Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera (15-6-1). All three judges at ringside scored the bout 29-28 for Yadong, the rising star from Heilongjiang, China, who now lives in Sacramento, and trains with Team Alpha Male. His coach, Uriah Faber also weighed in yesterday just in case Song’s visa issue did not clear up in time to take on the talented fighter from Ecuador.
Round 1 was a feeling out process for both fighters with Vera able to manage the distance using his near four-inch reach advantage keeping Yadong at the end of his kicks. Near the one minute mark, Yadong was able to press Vera against the cage. Vera circled off to put Yadong against the cage, both fighters landing short knees and elbows as the round ends.
In round 2, Yadong started with a bevy of leg kicks against Vera before working some combinations up top. Vera was able to get Yadong up against the cage, both men exchanging shots at close range. A mixture of punches, elbows, and knees.
In round 3, Vera was able to land two takedowns, however he was unable to capitalize by landing any substantial ground-and-pound. Yadong got back to his feet both times, continuing to press forward and land clean shots against the Ecuadorian Black Belt.
According to FIght Stats, Yadong out-landed Vera in total strikes (119-115) and significant strikes (101-92) despite losing the takedown battle.
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