Mauricio Rua Survives Early Scare To Outpoint ‘Minotouro’ Nogueira

Two longtime mixed martial arts (MMA) 205-pound stalwarts competed in the co-main event of UFC 190. Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight champion Mauricio Rua (23-10) fought Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (21-7) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

“Shogun” was knocked out by fellow MMA legend Dan Henderson and Ovince St. Preux in his last two bouts. “Minotouro” also suffered a knockout loss when Anthony Johnson starched him in under a minute. Both men hoped to turn their recent misfortunes around at the HSBC Arena.

“Shogun” threw a body kick less than 30 seconds in the fight. “Minotouro” looked for a hook off the body kick of Rua. Nogueira landed a one-two combination and ducked Rua’s hook. They briefly engaged in the clinch. Rua lunged in with a hook that was blocked by “Minotouro.” “Shogun” landed a thunderous body kick. Nogueira rocked Rua and unloaded on punches. Rua threw punches and survived the round.

Rua opened round two with a kick to his opponent’s lead leg. “Shogun” secured a takedown. “Minotouro” threw punches off his back as Rua was attempting to transition. Nogueira got back on his feet and the two returned to the center of the Octagon. Rua landed two body kicks. Shogun” pressed Nogueira against the cage and referee Mario Yamasaki separated them. Rua connected with a left hook and a stiff body kick. The round ended 10 seconds later.

Round three began and “Shogun” was right back to the body kicks. “Minotouro” missed an overhand. Nogueira landed a knee to the body as Rua dragged him towards the fence. They broke free shortly after. Rua ducked under and connected with a right hook to the jaw.

An inside leg kick found its home for “Shogun.” Nogueira snuck in a jab. Rua took down “Minotouro,” but Nogueira locked up a guillotine. Rua popped his head out and maintained control until the final horn sounded.

The judges at Octagon side all saw Rua winning the fight two rounds to one.

Final Result: Mauricio Rua def. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)