UFC Fight Night 162's main event didn't only feature two Top 15 welterweights, but two of the greatest grapplers in the sport in Demian Maia and Ben Askren.
Looking to rebound from his brutal knockout loss to Jorge Masvidal back in July, Askren was facing a much different opponent in Maia — a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu submission specialist and two-time title challenger with the second most wins in UFC history.
While everyone expected a grappling battle, the first two rounds featured a heavy dose of striking. Askren did attempt to close the distance early and often, but Maia did a good job fending off the takedowns. Late in the first, Askren did take Maia down, but was froced to defend and scramble after the Brazilian reversed and almost locked in his own submission.
Finding success with his striking, Askren continued to press forward in the second round in search for the clinch. Once again, Askren secured a takedown, but Maia hit a omoplata sweep to take top position. Askren defended it soundly, creating a scramble and eventually claiming the dominant position as the horn sounded.
Both men started to slow a bit in the third, which seems to have been Maia's game plan. A fatigued Askren, seemingly falling behind in strikes, went for a single leg takedown, but Maia swept him with a heel hook. Maia moved quickly into position, taking the back of Askren when turned away. Askren tried controlling one hand, which allowed Maia to sink the other under the neck. Although Askren tried to adjust, Maia locked in the rear naked choke and put him to sleep.
This was Askren's second loss in three UFC fights. He's now 19-2 professionally. Demian Maia is now 28-9 and heads into 2020 with a three-fight win streak.