Machida fell to the mat in the opening round after eating a punch (it also looked like he slipped at the same time), but “The Dragon” was never able to recover from the beating he took for the remaining of the period.
Rockhold absolutely manhandling Machida. The Brazilian managed to survive the first stanza, barely, though the mauling was brought to a conclusion in the next round.
Rockhold easily got Machida to the canvas again and ultimately ended things with a rear-naked choke.
The official stoppage came at 2:31.
Rockhold will most likely get the winner of UFC 187’s title tilt between champion Chris Weidman and Vitor Belfort.