Post-Mortem: UFC Fight Night 19

What was supposed to happen, happened: topping UFC Fight Night 19 from Oklahoma City, Okla., Wednesday were two main-attraction fights that more or less played to scripts written by fans and analysts. Gray Maynard, an active and bullying wrestler, was able to pressure 12-month absentee Roger Huerta into dropping a close-split decision; after suffering the effects of solid striking, Nate Diaz capitalized on a lazy takedown attempt and squeezed Melvin Guillard’s neck.

Lack of suspense aside, you can’t complain much over fifty continuous minutes of fighting: suffering “Saw VI” previews is a small price to pay.

Next For Diaz: A slightly inflamed ego from breaking a two-fight losing streak; maybe Joe Lauzon.

Next for Guillard: A review of some fundamentals: don’t charge in like a bull, head down, and stick your neck into the armpit of a jiu-jitsu black belt. Failing that, opposing Sam Stout in a guaranteed stand-up highlight clip.

Next for Maynard: Some busy work until he can challenge the winner of B.J. Penn/Diego Sanchez for the 155-pound title. (Hopefully with a finish: his last five wins are via decision.)

Next for Huerta: More fights: you can act when you’re old and rusted out.