Miller takes split decision win to beat Lauzon again

Jim Miller might not claim another Fight of the Year award for his second clash with Joe Lauzon, but he'll take the win.

In a rematch of their classic battle from UFC 155, Miller and Lauzon once again engaged in a high-octane duel that was far less definitive than their first meeting. Lauzon clearly had the advantage in the grappling department, but Miller's volume striking was enough to win over two of the three judges scoring the contest.

Miller won for the 16th time in the Octagon, tying him for the lightweight record with Gleison Tibau. It was his second straight win after a first-round TKO of Takanori Gomi this past July.

The victory did not come easily as Lauzon pushed the pace from the opening minute, something that Miller was prepared for. He replied with combinations whenever Lauzon got in close and used his grappling to avoid submissions on the mat. Lauzon did find success with ground-and-pound near the end of Round 1.

Lauzon's strategy was the same in Round 2. But even as he advanced, Miller repeatedly caught him with elbows and short flurries to the body. Again, Lauzon was able to trip Miller and acquire top position, though Miller's jiu-jitsu kept him out of serious danger.

In Round 3, it was Miller who came out as the aggressor, battering the resilient Lauzon against the cage with heavy leather. However, Lauzon scored a takedown for the third round in a row, this time with almost three minutes to work. He stayed glued to Miller and almost beat the buzzer with a fight-ending armbar.

Even though he won the most definitive round of their match, Lauzon found himself on the wrong end of the scorecards just as he did when the two men fought at UFC 155.

Lauzon has now alternated between wins and losses in his past six fights.