Rashad Evans vs Thiago Silva — Fight recap

Rashad Evans defeated Thiago Silva by unanimous decision over three rounds on January 2, 2010, controlling the bout through superior wrestling. Evans landed 12 of 66 significant strikes at 18% accuracy while securing eight takedowns on 16 attempts for a 50% success rate, accumulating 7:14 of control time.

Silva countered with more efficient striking, landing 31 of 84 significant strikes at 36% accuracy and connecting on six leg kicks, but his inability to defend the takedown proved decisive. The fight illustrated a classic grappler-versus-striker dynamic, with Evans neutralizing Silva's striking volume by dictating the pace on the canvas despite being significantly outstruck.

The unanimous decision victory solidified Evans' position in the light heavyweight division and set up his next challenge against higher-ranked competition.