UFC 157: What We Learned from Lavar Johnson vs. Brendan Schaub

For the final FX prelim of the evening, heavyweight sluggers Brendan Schaub and Lavar Johnson squared off in a pairing that promised to deliver a knockout, but didn't.

Coming into UFC 157, Schaub and Johnson had collectively went to the judges one time in 34 fights. Schaub, though, wanted nothing to do with the stand-up game and found comfort in just cruising to victory inside his opponent's guard.

What we'll remember about this fight

Being disappointed comes to mind.

Everyone expected a big knockout or at least a quick submission from Schaub. Instead, we watched three rounds of sluggish grappling to the tune of an entire stadium of booing fans.

What we learned about Schaub

He knows his limits. He's a stand-up fighter by trade, but his chin is suspect, and Johnson's power spelled bad news. So instead of ignoring the obvious, Schaub decided to change things up and go to his wrestling.

That he was unable to finish Johnson on the mat is concerning, but at least he got back in the win column. It was a smart, but simultaneously, disappointing performance from Schaub.

What we learned about Johnson

It turns out he actually can go an entire three rounds. Mind you, he looked pretty awful doing it. 

Aside from that, we didn't really learn anything new. Johnson has ridiculous power, but he's no elite talent. His takedown defense was terrible.

He's about as one-dimensional as they come. That one dimension is devastating, but still not enough.

What's next for Schaub

I'd like to see him fight Stipe Miocic.

What's next for Johnson

Possibly a pink slip. If not, I'd like to see him fight Todd Duffee.