TUF 11 semifinals: Kris McCray vs. Josh Bryant

A round-by-round recap of how Kris McCray of Team Punishment/Ortiz/Franklin won his rematch against Josh Bryant of Team Liddell and advanced to the Ultimate Finale on June 19.

First round

McCray spent the first half of the round using his wrestling advantage. He took down Bryant and controlled the body for close to two minutes. Both fighters landed a few big punches in the latter part of the round. Score this round for McCray.

Second round

McCray was much more active with his hands early on, landing a series of body shots from the clinch. He continued to push the pace of the round with his hands and knees for the full five minutes. Score this round for McCray.

Third round

At some point, you'd think five fights in six weeks would catch up to McCray inside the octagon. That point never arrived. Although he absorbed a few shots from Bryant, McCray summoned enough strength, energy and courage in his 186-pound frame to remain on his feet and in the fight. McCray continued to push forward and work his clinch and wrestling skills. This round could have gone either way.

McCray won by decision and will fight Court McGee in the Ultimate Finale. The judges scored it 30-27, 29-28, 30-27.

More importantly, Rich Franklin went 1-0 as a coach.