UFC on FX 1 Results: What We Learned from Duane Ludwig vs. Josh Neer

Grizzled veterans Duane Ludwig and Josh Neer were featured in the co-main event of the UFC on FX broadcast.  Both fighters have had multiple stints with the promotion, at both lightweight and their current weight class of welterweight.

Ludwig may very well be the most technical Muay Thai striker in MMA, having competed around the globe in both MMA and kickboxing.  In addition to his recent career resurgence at 170 pounds, the UFC corrected a prior injustice, handing Ludwig the promotion’s official fastest knockout record for his destruction of Jonathan Goulet at UFC Fight Night 3.

For Neer, his inconsistencies spelled the end of prior stint in the Octagon.  The hard-nosed veteran frequently showcased a propensity to get dragged into fire fights, which produced highlight-reel wins, but also a number of bad losses.

What We’ll Remember about This Fight

Despite getting pummeled on the feet, Neer used his strong submission game to finish off the striking specialist Ludwig.  Ludwig connected repeatedly with counterstrikes and knees to the body, hurting Neer more than once.  However, once Neer got the fight to the mat, Ludwig was in trouble.  As Ludwig worked to get back to his feet, Neer applied a slick guillotine and put Ludwig to sleep before Ludwig could even tap.

What We Learned about Josh Neer

Neer once again showed why he’s had a long career; his chin.  The veteran fighter absorbed a barrage from Ludwig from the opening bell, but continued to move forward.  When he realized he was outclassed on the feet, Neer transitioned to a perfect guillotine and proved why he was given a second chance with the promotion.

What We Learned about Duane Ludwig

Ludwig exhibited the striking technique that has led him to victory in so many bouts.  Unfortunately for the man known as “Bang,” his expert Muay Thai technique is no use on the ground.  With the sixth submission loss of his career, Ludwig’s ground game is still a work in progress. 

 

What’s Next for Neer

With his second straight win, Neer is a tough test for anyone in the 170-pound division.  A matchup with another longtime veteran, Brian Ebersole, would gauge which competitor is ready for a title run.

 

What’s Next for Ludwig

At this point in his career, it’s safe to say that Ludwig isn’t competing to challenge for the title.  He’s in it because he loves the sport and likes to put on a show.  A fight with former title challenger Dan Hardy would produce fireworks.

Rob Tatum is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report MMA. You can also find Rob’s work at TheMMACorner.com.  For anything related to MMA, Follow @RobTatumMMA.