The Sports Informant

Sacramento Mixed Martial Artist Justin Buchholz had a rough experience at UFC 109. First, in a seemingly must-win situation, Buchholz came up short to opponent Mac Danzig, losing a decision in their preliminary fight Saturday to drop his record to 1-4 in the UFC. Then he was medically suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission after.

It’s not as bad as it sounds. While the tough loss will make it more difficult for Buchholz to get back into the Octogon, the scrappy fighter’s loss came to a former Ultimate Fighter winner, and he’s submerged himself in a talented camp with Urijah Faber and Team Alpha Male. And his suspension? It’s a standard thing after a grueling fight, designed to force athletes to rest and heal up, nothing more.

The NSAC suspended Buchholz until March 9 according to MMAJunkie.com, with no contact until Feb. 28, for precautionary reasons. But as Sacramento Fight Sports Examiner Rick Rockwell wrote, the organization also suspended Danzig and nearly 10 other fighters from the night’s events.

The pain of the loss may be felt more by Buchholz. After an impressive first round, Buchholz came up short in rounds two and three to Danzig, and the judges gave Danzig a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).

After the fight, Danzig told MMAJunkie.com he was impressed by Buchholz.

“He’s a great fighter,” he said. “I do my best not to ever underestimate anybody, but I don’t think I gave him enough credit.”

The Website also reported winner Danzig earning $40,000 for his efforts, which included a $20,000 bonus for the win. Buchholz only brought home $8,000.

Buchholz saw much success in his career before entering the UFC, amassing a 7-1 record the three years he fought professionally before his debut at UFC Fight Night 12 in January of 2008. But a debut loss, a win and now three straight losses in the UFC have sent him back to the drawing board.

Still, the talented fighter is gaining a wealth of experience against some of the best fighters in the world, all in a two-year span. If his drive and dedication to the sport continues, his luck in the cage should return.