UFC 66: Report

Billed as the biggest fight in UFC history, the long awaited rematch between Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz saw the sport's most popular fighters go head to head in a grudge match of epic proportions. With a sold-out house at the Las Vegas MGM Grand and record numbers of pay per view fans tuned in at home, this was one fight that no one wanted to miss.

The last time these two formidable fighters met, much was made of the accidental thumb poking which Ortiz claimed left him partially blinded and cost him the match. But there could be no excuses this time - the 'Huntington Beach Bad Boy' had spent months in isolated training and claimed he was ready as he'd ever be.

In the first of a predicted series of takedown attempts, Ortiz moved straight in with a shot from the outside that missed badly after a flurry of opening strikes. He landed his biggest punch in the form of an overhand right, just before the three minute mark. Ready for his opponent to come forward for a takedown, Liddell struck using a left jab to set up a straight right hand blow that opened up a cut over Ortiz' left eyebrow. Moving in for the kill, he then landed a monster left hand strike which knocked Ortiz first to the fence, and then to the mat. Ortiz cradled up and shielded his head as Liddell pummelled his head with blows in an effort to end the fight. Miraculously, Ortiz survived, getting back on his feet to the delight of the crowd just as the first round ended.

In the second round Tito, his face still bleeding, kept himself busy looking for any available openings but missed another takedown attempt, ending up on his back. Liddell allowed him to stand, knowing that he would be more dominant if he remained on his feet, while the crowd responded with chants of "Chuck!" The pace slowed as the fighter's preserved their energy, but in the closing minute Ortiz finally made a successful takedown attempt, mounting Liddell's back. But 'The Iceman' made it out with ease, landing an elbow that allowed him to get back on his feet. The second round was awarded to Ortiz for his effort and consistency, leaving the contest tied.

In the beginning of the third round fans showed their support with chants of "Tito!" as the struggling fighter exchanged blows with Liddell. After yet another takedown attempt was turned away, Liddell knocked Ortiz down with a left-hook and right-hand uppercut combination, and rained down blows upon the fallen fighter. Although most of the hits were blocked by Ortiz' elbows and shoulders, the barrage proved enough to force referee Mario Yamasaki to end the fight as Ortiz was unable to change his position.

Liddell was announced as the winner and still UFC Light Heavyweight Champion via third round TKO. This time around Ortiz made no excuses, admitting in the post-fight press conference: "Chuck is the best in the world and he beat the best Tito Ortiz there's been."

"This is the most satisfying win of my career," said a composed Liddell.

For more UFC 66 Event Results, see the UFC 66 Fight Card: Click here

Head here to the official UFC 66 site for more info, including biographies: http://66.ufc.com/

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