So I'm the resident "tarot" guy, and I picked Lawler and Volk to win. Obv I'm happy with the result, but I'm not here to gloat. Far from it. I've been wrong before and I'm sure it'll happen eventually (or maybe soon) that I go 0 for 2 on a night.
But I'll be damned if I wasn't impressed with the efforts of Ortega and Diaz. Both guys had plenty of opportunities to fold under their opponent's pressure, but both gave us some THRILLING moments, particularly Ortega. To come out for the fifth round like he did after the beating he had taken, and after the psychological blow of that third round, showed that warrior spirit that I believe we all tune in to see. And Nick Diaz managing to put together the performance he did with his head clearly in a weird place (based on comments) was nearly as impressive.
Both Ortega and Diaz have some changes they could make. Both can (and likely will) come back stronger if they want. Anyway, just wanted to say that as someone who was cheering against both guys, it was still crystal clear that they were warriors of the highest degree. Heads up Diaz army and whatever you call the Ortega fans. Ortega Brigade! Or something. Anyways, stand by your guys. They'll be back.