Benavidez takes unanimous decision from Makovsky

Joseph Benavidez fended off a scrappy Zach Makovsky at UFC Fight Night 82 for his fifth straight victory.

A steady diet of takedowns put Benavidez's counter wrestling to the test, and after three competitive rounds it proved to be enough to earn him a unanimous decision. Makovsky discovered how difficult it is not only to put Benavidez down, but keep him there. Without any sustained body control, Makovsky was in tough against the boxing of Benavidez when they separated.

The striking exchanges were marked by Benavidez consistently landing the harder shots. Every damaging punch created more urgency for Makovsky, who found it more difficult to shoot in as the fight went on. Benavidez flurried for the finish late, but had to settle for the decision win.