UFC 146 Prelims Results: What We Learned from Jason Miller vs CB Dollaway

The FX prelims for UFC 146 featured an interesting contest between middleweights Jason Miller and CB Dollaway. Miller entered the bout after an uncharacteristically cardio-less performance against Michael Bisping. Dollaway entered the contest after back-to-back losses via stoppage.

Here's what we learned from the bout.

What we'll remember about this fight: 

The control that Dollaway was able to maintain once the fight hit the ground.

Many will find this to be surprising as Miller has impressive jiu-jitsu skills. Mayhem trained for the fight with Mark Munoz but was unable to stuff any takedowns during the contest.

The final round was correctly scored as 10-8 by only one judge, as Dollaway controlled and pounded out Miller in impressive fashion.

What we learned about Mayhem Miller:

That he may have blown out his knee early in the first round after an awkward landing from a takedown. Mayhem entered the cage with an ACE bandage and knee pad on his left knee, so it is likely that he entered the cage with an existing injury and further aggravated it.

Even when his back is against the wall and a win is absolutely necessary, Jason Miller is a prankster at heart. In the first round, when pressed up against the cage, Miller took a break from the action to give his opponent a noogie.

Seeing the third round was heartbreaking for Miller fans, as they watched Mayhem get pummeled without putting up much of a fight.

What we learned about CB Dollaway:

That his chin is still suspect and his guillotine defense has improved. Early in the first round, Miller rocked Dollaway who remained staggered. Miller went for a guillotine choke in hopes of finishing quickly the same way that Tom Lawler did back at UFC 100.

Early in the second round, Miller rocked Dollaway again, and the pair had an entertaining chase around the cage as Dollaway and Miller were unable to keep their balance.

Additionally, we have to credit the strength of his takedowns. If I counted correctly, the Arizona State University wrestler scored six takedowns during the bout and controlled Mayhem after the bout hit the ground.

In the post-fight interview, we learned that Dollaway is coming off hip surgery for a torn labrum. 

What's next for Mayhem:

It's hard to judge this performance from Miller. If he did hurt his knee early in the first round, then you have to admire his heart and determination for gutting it out. However, he showed no urgency to better his position despite eating a lot of strikes.

If Dana gives him another chance, it will be surprising. However, it is difficult for Joe Silva to find opponents for Rousimar Palhares. If Miller agrees to take on the dangerous leglock specialist, it might buy him one more fight.

What's next for Dollaway:

This was a signature win for Dollaway, who secured his sixth UFC win. A contest against the winner of Jake Shields vs. Ed Herman would be an excellent contest against another middleweight with tremendous grappling. 

If Dollaway doesn't want to wait for an opponent, Alan Belcher is currently without a dance partner.