UFC on FOX 6 recap: Demetrious Johnson finishes strong, retains title over John Dodson

Demetrious Johnson has long considered his cardio and fitness a weapon and in the main event against John Dodson, it proved to be just that, as the champion took control of the bout in the championship rounds to retain his title by unanimous decision.

John Dodson started very strong, connecting with power shots that “Mighty Mouse” usually easily evades. A clipping left hand from Dodson later dropped the champion, but Johnson showed how good of a chin he possesses as he bounced right back to his feet to resume battle with constant pressure and takedown attempts.

Johnson went to his kicks again in the second, but Dodson capitalized and scored with his counter, peppering the champion with left hands over the top. “Mighty Mouse” finally was able to work Dodson to the mat, but did very little from the top before both fighters got back to their feet. After the restart, Dodson again dropped the champion with a sizzling left hand but once again Johnson was able to recover.

The champion finally started to find his rhythm in the third. He went to work with his kicks and kept the pressure on Dodson as he pursued his foe around the octagon relentlessly. Johnson started to land with his right hand as well, and his strikes set up his take down game as the round wore on.

The pace of “Mighty Mouse” really started to show its effectiveness as the championship rounds started. Dodson was visibly slowing as the champion continued to press the action. The only thing that stopped the action was an illegal blow from the champion as he delivered a knee to the head of a grounded Dodson. No point was deducted but the damage was clear as a hematoma formed on the head of the challenger.

The final round was all Johnson who did his best work in the clinch as he punished Dodson with unanswered knees up the middle. Dodson had no answer for the clinch game of the champion as he started to fade with time running out on his title hopes.

After five full rounds in the books, it was up to the judges who scored the fight 48-47, 49-46, 48-47, all in favor of the champion who retains his belt with the victory.