LAS VEGAS - The eyes told the story. Maybe they were dazed, maybe there was a little disbelief.

Chuck Liddell, so accustomed to post-fight Octagon celebrations, found himself on the canvas this time, comforted by referee John McCarthy.

The new man in town, Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, stood, his massive frame dripping with sweat, and howled to the heavens. The crowd, which moments before booed thunderously at the man they defied to take their champion's belt, now howled in delight. And then, like a tsunami sweeping over a pristine coastline, Jackson's corner engulfed the man who had just taken the title away from "The Iceman" at 1:53 of Round 1 here at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, and the celebration was on.

Afterward, Dan Henderson, PRIDE's middleweight and light-heavyweight champion, entered the Octagon and challenged Jackson.

"First, Quinton Jackson is my friend," said Henderson. "We're all friends in this sport, but it's a business also. So, I'd be happy to make some money with some friends."

Following is an overview of the fights that occurred here May 26.

UNDERCARD
Wilson Gouveia defeated Carmelo Marrero.

Din Thomas (23-7) scored a submission win over Jeremy Stephens (13-2).

Alan Belcher (10-3) defeated Sean Salmon (9-3).

Thiago Silva (10-0) scored a TKO over James Irvin (12-4), who may have torn his ACL.  

MAIN CARD
The Fighters: Kalib Starnes (10-2-1) vs. Chris Leben (16-4)
Division: Middleweight
The Winner: Starnes
How: Unanimous Decision

The Fighters: Houston Alexander (7-1) vs. Keith Jardine (12-4-1)
Division: Light Heavyweight
The Winner: Alexander
How/When: KO at :48 of Round 1

The Fighters: Josh Burkman (19-4) vs. Karo Parisyan (25-4)
Division: Welterweight
Scouting Report: Burkman - Good wrestler, strong, likes to strike; Parisyan - judo, great throws, sub specialist, tenacious
The Winner: Parisyan
How/When: Unanimous Decision

The Fighters:  Terry Martin (18-2) vs. Ivan Salaverry (12-5-1)
Division: Middleweight
Scouting Report: Martin - KO power, versed in submission; Salaverry - Well rounded, good ground skills
The Winner: Martin
How/When: 2:04 of Round 1 by TKO

The Fighters: Quinton Jackson (27-6) vs. Chuck Liddell (20-4)
Division: Welterweight
Scouting Report: Jackson - heavy handed brutal slams and strong ground and pound; Liddell - powerful striker, takedown defense
Winner: Jackson
How/When: KO at 1:53 of Round 1

Minute by Minute
6:06 Tito Ortiz, wearing a baseball cap backward, poses for photos with fans adjacent to the Octagon.
6:10 With Led Zeppelin's "Immigrant Song" playing, footage of Chuck Liddell is shown on the big screens.
6:15 UFC heavyweight fighter Gabriel Gonzaga takes his place in Thiago Silva's corner.

For the whole story, check the August issue of Ultimate Grappling magazine.