Rashad Evans vs Sam Hoger — Fight recap

Rashad Evans defeated Sam Hoger via split decision over three rounds at UFC 60 on April 6, 2006, establishing himself as a rising light heavyweight prospect. Evans dominated the wrestling exchanges, landing 9 of 11 takedowns for an 81% success rate while controlling 9:23 of fight time compared to Hoger's negligible 0:03.

Though Evans landed just 23 of 72 significant strikes (31%), he consistently dictated position and pace from top control, where he accumulated damage through ground-and-pound. Hoger managed 18 of 72 significant strikes (25%) and attempted two submission holds, but lacked the wrestling credentials to mount sustained offense or escape Evans's clinch dominance.

The split decision reflected Hoger's respectable striking output and submission efforts, yet Evans's takedown prowess and positional control proved decisive. This victory signaled Evans's emergence as a credible contender in a division seeking fresh talent.