From the opening bell it was clear that this was a different Vic Darchinyan than we've been used to seeing. After suffering a knockout loss against Nonito Donaire, Vic definitely got back into the gym and put his work in. It's a testament to his ability and his work ethic that he was able to retool himself and incorporate better form, more effort, crisper shots and sounder fundamentals.

Darchinyan floored Mijares in the first round and it looked as if it might not last much longer. After never seeing it in Vic's style before, he had a fast jab that he followed with his super-strong straight left and left hook. He also incorporated some head movement and defense into his all around game. And one of the most devastating shots he landed was a perfectly planted uppercut.

Mijares was able to survive and win a round or two against Darchinyan for half the fight. But it looked as if he was ill-prepared for this challenge and perhaps took Darchinyan a bit too lighly heading into the fight. He got what he paid for, as he was knocked out just as the bell ending the 8th round was sounding.

Great performance by Darchinyan and terribly disappointing one for Mijares. I wouldn't mind seeing a rematch between the two of them if both were focused as Vic was tonight.