Dillashaw dissects Lineker to win decision, calls for title shot

TJ Dillashaw is ready for his rematch.

The former UFC bantamweight champion completely outclassed John Lineker for three rounds to win a unanimous decision at UFC 207 on Friday in Las Vegas.

Following his win over the No. 2-ranked Lineker, Dillashaw made an impassioned plea for a second crack at Dominick Cruz, the man who took the 135-pound title from him this past January via split decision.

"Dominick Cruz is a b---h," Dillashaw said in his postfight interview. "He's running from me. That's the second No. 2 guy I just beat. I'm fighting title fights in here, he's fighting (lower ranked fighters), I'm fighting No. 1 contenders. That's my belt, I want it back.

"If I don't get the title fight. Then we all know this s--- is rigged."

The way Dillashaw fought against Lineker, it will be difficult for anyone to argue that he doesn't deserve the next shot. Dillashaw's slick wrestling was on full display for 15 minutes as he perfectly timed his entries to avoid the dangerous fists of Lineker and put the Brazilian on the mat.

That strategy carried over to the second round, where Dillashaw had even more success at keeping Lineker down. Dillashaw rained down short punches and hammer fists on Lineker, who eschewed defense in favor of letting his iron chin absorb the punishment.

Dillashaw kicked off the third round with yet another takedown. Lineker managed to get up, but by then it appeared that his fighting spirit had withered and he was left to chase Dillashaw around the cage. That desperation played right into Dillashaw's hands, and he connected with counter punches and another takedown to seal the deal.

It was the second straight win for Dillashaw since losing his title to Cruz, who has been calling for a rematch ever since their first meeting. Dillashaw moves into a tie with former training partner Urijah Faber for the most wins (10) in UFC bantamweight history.

Lineker loses for the first time since moving to bantamweight after winning his past four fights at 135 pounds. It is his first loss since February 2014.