On Sunday night, Neil Magny pulled off an impressive performance against the ever-dangerous Erik Silva. Magny returned to the Octagon just 3 weeks after a disappointing loss to Demian Maia and put together one of his best performances to date in Saskatoon. With this victory, Magny is now 8-1 is his last 9 outings.
Official result: Neil Magny defeats Erick Silva by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)
What was the high point of the fight?
It has been said that the jab is the most underutilized tool in mixed martial arts. Whether that statement is true or not is neither here nor there. One thing that is for certain is that Neil Magny is an expert at using his probing jab. Magny’s jab was a real high point of this fight and the key to most of his success on the fight. Magny’s grappling also looked very solid for this fight too.
Where do these two go from here?
With this victory, Neil Magny deserves a big step up in competition. Seeing as Magny is constantly under-rated, I think it would be fitting if the UFC set him up with the other welterweight that is always over looked, Rick Story. Magny vs. Story would be a very intriguing match-up, Story has the wrestling chops to take down Magny at will, but Magny’s outside striking give him an advantage on the feet.
I hate to be the bearer of bad news but Erick Silva isn’t some young up-and-coming prospect. Silva is an experienced fighter, in his 30’s and unfortunately he doesn’t look set to make any major improvements anytime soon. I think it’s time to appreciate Silva for what he is: a fun fighter for one round. Let’s put Silva in there with Brandon Thatch so we can collectively enjoy the violence that will with no doubt ensue.
Watch now, later, or never?
Later, this fight isn’t great but Magny’s performance makes it watchable.
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