By Joe Fernandez
SPOILERS INCLUDED
MONTREAL -- Before Demian Maia entered the Octagon, they played a Matt Serra promo and this place was filled with boos.
Ed Herman is on his way in and this one is about to start.
This one is a grappling match early as Maia, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion, almost catches Herman in an oma plata (an exotic-looking shoulder lock) and a heel hook. But Herman escapes...to the second round.
Second round: Wow. Maia goes for a triangle choke off his back, Herman gets around his guard, Maia gets Herman back in guard and catches him with a tight triangle. Herman rolls as Maia takes the choke to mount position and rains down punches. Herman goes out from a combination of punches and the choke -- but really the choke.
Maia's jiu-jitsu is on another planet. Herman is a very good grappler and Maia still put on a clinic.
Maia got the crowd in his corner by hoisting a Montreal Canadiens jersey with his name on it up in the air. Then they showed St. Pierre dressing for the fight and the crowd REALLY got loud. Great atmosphere. Great fights so far. Make sure you don't miss that Maia triangle.