UFC on Fox 7 Results: What we Learned from Joseph Benavidez vs Darren Uyenoyama

Joseph Benavidez worked Darren Uyenoyama like a side of beef Saturday night, tenderizing Uyenoyama with heavy punches and kicks to take a one-sided TKO victory at the 4:50 mark of the second round during their UFC on Fox 7 undercard bout.

Benavidez (18-3) again looked like a contender at 125 pounds. He pretty much took what he wanted throughout the contest, easily staying out of protracted ground exchanges with Uyenoyama (8-4), an accomplished grappler but a clear striking novice.

What we'll remember about this fight: 

For me, it was a pair of kicks. Benavidez dropped Uyenoyama with a heavy high kick in the first round, then landed a wince-inducing liver kick in the second that started what proved to be the fight's decisive sequence.

What we learned about Joseph Benavidez:

John Dodson might have something to say about this, but Benavidez might be the most powerful striker in the division.

His standup has progressed in a serious way since Muay Thai champion Duane Ludwig joined Benavidez's Team Alpha Male training camp as a striking coach. He kept Uyenoyama guessing and basically ate the other guy's lunch Saturday night.

What we learned about Darren Uyenoyama:

If he wants to win, he needs to tie up his opponent or get the fight to the ground. Against a strong opponent with a wrestling background, Uyenoyama was unable to do so.

What's next for Benavidez:

While champ Demetrious Johnson mends his surgically repaired shoulder, I suggest John Moraga and Benavidez for the title shot. 

What's next for Uyenoyama:

I'd like to watch him fight Ian McCall.