Michael Bisping had some harsh criticisms of UFC Welterweight Kevin Holland following his UFC Orlando loss. As Kevin took on Stephen Thompson in a fight many are lauding as a potential fight of the year. Bisping questioned the decisions made by Holland in the all-striking affair.
What’s the Problem?
With ‘Wonderboy’ known as a standup specialist, it appeared Holland wanted to beat him at his own game. Starting out well, but as the rounds went on it was Kevin who was falling behind. Thompson’s speed and movement caused ‘Trailblazer’ problems before the stoppage after round four.
During the fight, Holland would twice find himself in an advantageous position on the ground. Both times he opted to disengage from the position and revert the fight to the feet. Many have questioned the decision, especially with hindsight in mind.
Michael Bisping Was Not Impressed
One man who was extremely critical on the night was commentator and former Middleweight champion Michael Bisping. Speaking on the UFC Orlando post-show here’s what the ‘Count’ has to say.
“We see all the time, people say, ‘The first one to shoot is a coward,’ but then guess what, people shoot, because you know what, it’s allowed in the rules. It’s a mixed martial arts contest. This was one of the first times, and maybe the only time, I’ve actually seen somebody truly live up to that.”
He’d continue to further his point. “Kevin Holland had top position. Clearly. A couple of times, he was like, ‘No, no, no. We’re going to strike. That’s what we came here to do.’ I believe he will regret that decision going forward, because that was his ego getting the better of him.”
“This is not a popularity contest in terms of, ‘Oh, everyone thinks I’m a real badass guy.’ No, you come here to win a fight. This is high stakes. Do you want to be a champion? Do you want to earn a lot of money?”. Bisping finished by saying. “Do you want to be known as one of the best fighters in the world, or a guy who puts on a show and possibly gives away a victory. That was not high fight IQ.”
As harsh as it may sound Bisping may have a point. With a BJJ black belt in his repertoire,  Holland may have been able to do some real work on the ground. Especially given it’s not Stephen Thompson’s area of expertise.
Do you agree with Michael Bisping or is he being over critical?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
