Not many in mixed martial arts, or sports for that matter, could capture a Canadian audience like Georges St-Pierre. And at UFC 129 on this day in 2011, that is exactly what he did.
The reigning UFC welterweight champion helped usher in the largest UFC event in North America at the time, packing 55,724 into the Rogers Center for a total gate of over $12 million.
In the main event, GSP downed challenger and former Strikeforce champion Jake Shields by decision, including one scorecard that went 50-45 in favor of the champion.
That was not the only title fight that night, as Jose Aldo defended his featherweight belt against another Canadian, Mark Hominick. While Hominick was unable to best Aldo, he earned plenty of respect for pushing the champion to the end.
Many also remember the incredible goose egg on Hominick’s head from the war between the two.
In a meeting of former champions, Lyoto Machida made a statement when he knocked out legend Randy Couture with a crank kick in the second round. That performance would help propel “The Dragon” into a match with Jon Jones for the light heavyweight title.
Vladimir Matyushenko knocked out Jason Brilz in just 20 seconds and Benson Henderson scored a decision over Mark Bocek to open the main card.
On the Spike prelims, Rory MacDonald topped Nate Diaz in a thrilling three-round affair, while Jake Ellenberger knocked out Sean Pierson.
