Round one: Tim Elliott is controlling the center of the octagon, both fighters are feeling each other out. Elliott initiates some scrambles throughout the round, scoring with strikes and a close takedown attempt. Benoit lands a few good shots throughout the round. Elliott initiates another scramble and the two get into a wild grappling exchange. Elliott finally secures a takedown at the end of the round, ending with Benoit on his back. I scored it 10-9 for Elliott.
Round two: The round starts off a bit slow. Both fighters are waiting for the other to commit the they can counter. Two minutes in, Elliott is controlling the center of the octagon. Benoit is doing a good job of landing shots and having Elliot case him. Benoit gets a takedown but gets stuck in a guillotine, Elliott uses it to reverse the position, and ends up in full mount over Benoit. Benoit eventually gets a scramble going, resulting in a knee bar attempt on Elliott that appeared to be close to a submission. The two get into another scramble and Elliott ends up on top of Benoit, elbowing him. I scored the round 10-9 for Benoit.
Round three: The round gets off to an exciting start, but about a minute into the round, Elliott appears to be having issues with his right hand. Despite the hand issues, he is controlling the round and landing more strikes than Benoit. Benoit is looking fatigued. Benoit lets it all go in the last minute of the round, making it a bit closer to score. I score the third round 10-9 in favor of Elliott.
All three judges score the fight, 29-28 for Tim Elliott by unanimous decision.
