UFC 131 – Mark Munoz picks up close unanimous decision win over Demian Maia in Vancouver, Canada

UFC middleweight powerhouse, Mark Munoz continued his march up the 185 pound ranks tonight at UFC 131 in Vancouver, Canada, defeating Brazilian submission wizard Demian Maia via unanimous decision on the night.
Both men start cautiously. Maia clips Munoz with a right and he’s wobbled as he backs away. Maia looks to attack again but Munoz circles away. Big right from Maia lands before he pushes Munoz up against the fence. The referee separates them and Maia continues to land the right hand. He throws a couple of head kicks before pushing Munoz up against the fence. The two separate and Maia gets through again with a one-two. Maia continues to dominate the stand-up game which is a big surprise. Munoz tries a takedown to end the round but he doesn’t get it. MMABay scores the round 10-9 Maia.
Maia shoots for the takedown early but doesn’t get it and Munoz lands a number of big punches to the body of the Brazilian. Maia tires to pull guard but Munoz backs out. Both men start to throw bombs before Maia shoots in again. Munoz tries for a D’Arce choke but that allows Maia top position. Munoz scrambles back to his feet quickly and nails Maia with a straight right. Maia shoots in for the takedown again and it’s more damaging punches from Munoz to the body. Maia pulls guard and manages to stand but Munoz shoves him up against the fence, taking the Brazilian down. Big shots from Munoz up against the fence to the Brazilian’s body. The referee stands them up but neither man throws anything. MMABay scores the round 10-9 Munoz.
Head kick attempt from Munoz is blocked, and another. Right hand from Maia knocks Munoz off balance. Munoz shoots in and takes Maia down but the Brazilian is soon back to his feet. Munoz shoves Maia up against the fence but Maia gets good position and secures a crucifix. Munoz gets free and shoves Maia up against the fence again. Maia turns it around and lands a nice knee. The referee separates them and the two restart in the middle. Munoz goes to the body but Maia lands with a hard knee to the body himself. Munoz shoves Maia down but he soon pops up. Munoz gets the clinch and puts Maia on the fence. The two exchange kicks and punches in the final thirty seconds. Maia shoots in but Munoz stuffs it. Final flurry with the hands from both. MMABay scores the round 10-9 Munoz. The judges scored the bout 29-28, 29-28, 30-27 in favour of Munoz.