UFC 125 Results: Was Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard the Best Title Fight Ever?

Heading into UFC 125, the a common opinion was that Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard would be a boring fight between two fighters well known for being unable to finish fights.

That prediction could not have been more wrong. Edgar vs. Maynard II had just about every component of a great title fight. Maynard nearly scored a knockout, Edgar attempted a submission, Edgar completed an amazing comeback, both fighters fought well on their feet and on the ground, and the fight was very closely contested.

So, was this the greatest title fight ever? I say no, and here are a few reasons why. 

The Draw

There is something about a draw that makes an entire fight seem meaningless.

While the draw meant that Edgar would retain his title, it also suggests that Maynard is an equally deserving champion.

One great thing about MMA is that it matches two individuals against eachother and determines which one is the better fighter. In a draw, both fighters put everything on the line and nothing is determined.

The Controversy

Because the fight was so closely contested, supporters of both Edgar and Maynard feel that their fighter won the fight.

Much like a draw, controversy is something that can tarnish a great fight. Neither fighter wants to leave doubt in anyones mind that they were the better fight. Unfortunately, that is the case when dispute arises about which fighter won the fight.

Lack Of Hype

Brock Lesnar vs. Cain Velasquez turned out to be one of the more lopsided title fights in recent history, yet it received exponentially greater attention than Edgar vs. Maynard II.

While the amount of people watching a fight doesn't change the performance, it does affect how the fight will be remembered. Far more people will remember Lesnar getting pummeled than will remember the show that Edgar and Maynard put on at UFC 125.

The Rematch

Dana White has announced that Gray Maynard will receive an immediate rematch with Frankie Edgar for the title.

Assuming the rematch is more decisive, it will most likely overshadow what took place in this fight. Fans will certainly put more stake into what happens in Edgar vs. Maynard III than anything that happened prior to that fight.

Conclusion

In terms of the actual fight, Frankie Edgar vs. Gray Maynard II may be right up there with the best title fights in MMA history.

However, its historic meaning will be lost after the rematch, and it will most likely be remembered as just another title fight.