UFC 129: Slow Motion Video of Jake Shields' Eye Poke of Doom

UFC 129 offered one of the most memorable night of fights in recent Ultimate Fighting Championship history.

Highlights of the night included the acrobatic flying triangle submission win by Pablo Garza, John Makdessi's devastating spinning back fist knockout, and, of course, the first ever knockout by way of crane technique from Lyoto Machida.

By the time the main event came around, the masses were looking forward to capping off a night filled with non-stop action.  Unfortunately, by most accounts, GSP vs. Shields was considered a big let down.

Let's be honest.  Most forums, fans, and reporters are quick to primarily criticize Georges St. Pierre for his inability to finish Shields on the feet.  People have sided for and against the welterweight kingpin, but the video attached to this article below may make you re-assess your position:

We all know that GSP fought the last three rounds of that fight while blind in one eye.  One's depth perception gets completely thrown off with the inability to see out of both eyes, which allowed Jake Shields to land his power right hand far more often than not.

Now, with video evidence, we can all see that the damage to GSP's eye was not an excuse by him or his camp.

Jake threw a pawing, open-handed left hook with his fingers fully extended, and caught GSP square in the left eye. If this doesn't compromise one's ability, I don't know what else does. You won't find this move allowed anywhere in the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts.

But much like GSP's tough first round in his initial fight against BJ Penn, as well as the pulled groin he suffered during his match with Thiago Alves, he persevered through injury and came out the victor.  He did this not just through talent, but by passing a gut check as well.  

Whether anyone likes to admit it, critical of his abilities to finish or not, Georges St. Pierre is championship material.  There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it.  

For anyone who disagrees, go take a boxing or muay thai class with an eye patch on and see how well you fare.  Then imagine competing with such a handicap at the championship level.  It would not turn out well for anyone, besides an anomaly like Georges St. Pierre.