Michael McDonald at UFC 145: 5 Questions We Have After His Knockout Win

Twenty-one-year-old bantamweight Michael McDonald got the attention of many fans at UFC 145 when he knocked out Miguel Torres.

Torres was suppose to be the biggest challenge in McDonald's career.

But McDonald controlled the fight, eventually landing a big knockout blow.

McDonald is now on the title hunt, but there are still some questions we have for him. 

Just How Devastating Are His Hands?

We know McDonald is a great striker. 

But can he become the most devastating bantamweight in the UFC today?

If his last two fights are any indication, McDonald can be. 

He should be tested against somebody with a great chin in his next fight just to see how hard he can hit. 

How Good Are the Other Aspects of His Game?

With his 15-1 record, nine of McDonald's wins have come by knockout. 

McDonald is well-trained in other areas of MMA though, and three of his wins are by submission. 

When McDonald faces some of the higher ranking fighters, his wrestling will be tested. 

It will be interesting to see if McDonald can handle being taken down, fighting off of his back and having to go for a submission instead of using his hands. 

How Will He Handle Pressure?

As his stock will continue to rise, McDonald will have pressure both inside and out of the Octagon. 

McDonald should pay close attention to guys like Jon Jones and Jose Aldo, as they have both handled the pressures of being champions at such young ages. 

As McDonald faces tougher wrestlers and strikers, he will be physically pressured inside of a fight. 

McDonald will have to make use of his other skills if he's ever put on his back or up against the cage. 

Will the UFC Fast Track Him to a Title Shot?

During his post-fight interview, McDonald said he was ready for a title shot. 

While many fighters say this, it may just be a little bit of immature confidence speaking—as McDonald is only 21.

On the other hand, McDonald could be one of the most dangerous fighters in the division and another young fighter with unbelievable potential. 

The UFC could give him a fight against the experienced Brian Bowles or Brad Pickett. 

Or they could give him another up-and-comer like the 12-1 Mike Easton. 

Can He Hang with the Best in the Division?

Last night, McDonald defeated one of the greatest bantamweights in MMA history. 

But Torres did not look like the same fighter he once was. 

McDonald may or may not be ready for guys like champ Dominick Cruz, Urijah Faber or Renan Barao. 

But if he can continue to win, we will see McDonald get tested by the elite in the division.