LAS VEGAS - Young fighters are fun to watch because they often fight a bit more recklessly. With that can also come mismanagement of their gas tank. "Ultimate Fighter 13" castmates Clay Harvison and Justin Edwards both ran into that problem. Completely exhausted, both gutted out a fun third round. In the end, two judges gave Harvison the nod. That was enough for a split decision victory, 29-28, 28-29 and 29-28, in fight No. 3 of the night of "The Ultimate Fighter 13 Finale" at the Palms.
"I thought the judging was fair.� That fight was extremely close and I knew the judging might end up like that. I felt I won second and third rounds and did enough in those rounds to earn the victory," said Harvison (9-3, 1-0 UFC).
Edwards (6-1, 0-1 UFC) scored four takedowns in the first and three more down the stretch in the third, but he didn't do much damage from top control, and too often Harvison got himself to his feet quickly. Harvison was the crisper striker and landed some good knees throughout the fight.
The winner was disappointed he didn't post a more resounding victory.
"I went out there and did exactly what I needed to do to beat him.� I knew I had to take what I could get and constantly counter what he was throwing at me," Harvison said. "I was looking for the finish, but I just couldn't find it with the way we were both fighting. "
Bailey wrestles way to victory over McGillivray, but fails to wow
Shamar Bailey was tabbed an early favorite on TUF 13. He couldn't make good on the lofty expectations, lost in the semifinals and found himself on tonight's undercard. Bailey had enough to take out Ryan McGillivray via unanimous decision, 30-27 on all cards, but he still has plenty to prove.
Based on early workouts, Bailey (12-3) was a big favorite of the coaches. Using his wrestling, Bailey is probably a terror in the gym.
The same thing that happened when he lost in the semifinals against Chris Cope, emerged tonight against McGillivray. Bailey's a one-trick pony. It was enough to get him the win over the young Canadian, but he needs to move to the next level with his stamina and hands if he expects to make a mark with the UFC.
Landon Cassill Phil Hill Lowe s Chevrolet Eric Cheney Howden Ganley Jason Leffler Fred Gamble
