Throughout the fight Anders tried to come forward, while Machida fought on counterattacks. Anders made several successful transfers to his account, but Machida made it easy to get up and running again and again. The Brazilian tore the distance at any opportunity and attacked with accurate kicks on all angles.
The fight lasted all five rounds, and a unanimous decision was given to Machida (48-47, 47-48, 49-46). Thus, the legendary Brazilian managed to interrupt three fights series of defeats.