Bisping: Machida needs to change his style

This past weekend at UFC 163 in Brazil, former UFC light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida (19-4 MMA, 11-4 UFC) lost a controversial split decision to Phil “Mr. Wonderful” Davis (12-1 MMA, 8-1 UFC) in the evenings co-main event.

Many people have blamed bad judging for the fights decision, but UFC middleweight contender Michael Bisping (24-5 MMA, 14-5 UFC) believes it may have been Machida’s style that lost him the fight.

Here is what “The Count” had to say on FUEL TV’s UFC 163 post-fight show:

“Lyoto didn’t do enough in this fight. He was hanging around and letting Davis do his work. Davis impressed me with his striking. Machida wasn’t overly active. Maybe he needs to change his style. I didn’t see the killer instinct. He needs to be more aggressive. He’s too reserved and too hesitant.”

Machida has often been criticized for his elusiveness and preference to counter strike as opposed to pressing the action. However, it was that same elusive counter striking that led “The Dragon” to the UFC light heavyweight championship back in 2009.

Do you agree with Bisping that a change in style may benefit Machida? Let’s hear it Penn Nation!