UFC 145 Results: What We Learned from Rory MacDonald vs. Che Mills

In the co-main event of UFC 145 in Atlanta, Rory MacDonald continued to live up to expectations by thoroughly dominating Che Mills. Going into the fight, the young Canadian was an enormous favorite over the British vet.

Here's what we learned from the bout.

What we will remember about this fight

That Rory took the fight to the ground not because he wanted to, but because he sensed danger. For Che Mills to cause concern so early into the bout was surprising.

What we learned about Rory MacDonald

He knows to concede when an opponent has an advantage in a particular area. When MacDonald felt that Mills was dangerous on the feet, he had no qualms about changing locations. Takedowns came with minimal effort and his ground-and-pound was fantastic.

What we learned about Che Mills

His standup is something that can cause concern for any welterweight incapable of taking him down.

What's next for MacDonald

MacDonald will resume his domination of high-quality names in the welterweight division. He should fight someone who is in the top 15 at the minimum. The winner of Demian Maia and Dong Hyun Kim would be a good match. Additionally, the loser of Kampmann/Ellenberger would pose a weighty challenge.

What's next for Mills:

Mills is in the company of Mike Pyle and Nate Diaz—it's not like a dominant loss to MacDonald is uncommon. It's all about how you rebound from it. Mills should fight someone willing to stand, but someone who can test him on the ground too. Mills vs the loser of Duane Ludwig/Dan Hardy would be fitting.