UFC 5 - ORTIZ VS GRIFFIN 2

UFC 5 - ORTIZ VS GRIFFIN 2

UFC 106: Ortiz vs. Griffin 2 was a highly anticipated mixed martial arts event held by the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) on November 21, 2009, at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Paradise, Nevada. The event featured a headline bout between two of the sport's most recognizable fighters, Tito Ortiz and Forrest Griffin, in a rematch from their previous encounter at UFC 59 in 2006.

Background

Originally, Tito Ortiz was set to face Mark Coleman, but the bout was canceled due to Coleman suffering a knee injury. Forrest Griffin stepped in as a replacement, setting the stage for a rematch against Ortiz. The fight gained additional prominence when the originally scheduled main event, a heavyweight title bout between Brock Lesnar and Shane Carwin, was canceled due to Lesnar's illness. This change elevated Ortiz vs. Griffin 2 to the main event of UFC 106.

The Fighters

Tito Ortiz:

Known as "The Huntington Beach Bad Boy," Ortiz is a former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion and one of the sport's early stars.
Ortiz is known for his wrestling prowess, ground-and-pound tactics, and charismatic personality.
Coming into the fight, Ortiz was looking to bounce back from a series of setbacks and re-establish himself as a top contender.

Forrest Griffin:

Griffin gained fame by winning the first season of "The Ultimate Fighter" reality show, which significantly boosted the UFC's popularity.
Known for his resilience, striking ability, and heart, Griffin had previously held the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship.
Griffin was seeking redemption after losing to Ortiz in their first encounter by a close split decision.

The Stakes

The rematch was crucial for both fighters. For Ortiz, it was an opportunity to prove he still belonged among the elite in the light heavyweight division. For Griffin, it was a chance to avenge his earlier loss and solidify his status as a top contender. The fight promised to be a clash of styles, with Ortiz's wrestling and ground control facing off against Griffin's striking and tenacity.

Pre-Fight Hype

The buildup to the fight was intense, with both fighters engaging in verbal exchanges and promotional activities that heightened the anticipation. Fans and analysts were eager to see how the adjustments and improvements each fighter had made over the years would play out in the Octagon.

Event Details

Date: November 21, 2009
Venue: Mandalay Bay Events Center, Paradise, Nevada
Attendance: 10,529
Total Gate: $3,003,250
Buyrate: 375,000

The event also featured other notable fights, including Josh Koscheck vs. Anthony Johnson and Antônio Rogério Nogueira vs. Luiz Cané, making UFC 106 a memorable night for MMA fans.