There is something different to be found when watching touted prospects compete inside the chaos of a mixed martial arts cage. 

There are some who are simply meant for larger achievements, and their performances reflect that motivation. Meanwhile, others who possess developed traits struggle against more experienced competition.The ones who pass the test move on to face tougher obstacles, and those who struggle discover there is much more work to be done.

Let's take a look at some details of the latest clash of prospects in MMA.

Julian Marquez

Middleweight / 6-1 Pro / 27 Years Old

Phil Hawes  

Middleweight / 4-2 Pro / 28 Years Old

Anyone who has seen Phil Hawes work inside the gym at Jackson/Winkeljohn knows the man is a freak of nature. With tree trunk-sized legs and muscle mass to boot, it becomes clear after a short time watching him compete against the best fighters in the world on a daily basis just how much potential Hawes possesses. That said, the 28-year-old is still relatively new to the game, but opportunities have to be taken when they are presented.

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Thus far, Hawes has failed to capitalize on any of them.

The buzz surrounding him and the team he's attached to has allowed Hawes to get some big showcases at such a young stage of his career, as he's competed both on The Ultimate Fighter and under the World Series of Fighting banner on previous occasions. Both situations saw the up-and-coming prospect fall short in painful fashion and served to cool the heat surrounding the middleweight significantly.

Nevertheless, the fight game is one of second and third chances, and Hawes came face to face with another opportunity Tuesday night.

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The Albuquerque transplant squared off with Julian Marquez on Dana White's Contender Series with a chance to earn the UFC contract that had eluded him thus far. He'd have no small task toppling "The Cuban Missile Crisis," who had only been turned back once in his six outings as a professional. 

It was a battle of prospects at the highest level, and Marquez imposed his will with force.

Marquez's striking did more damage than what Hawes could generate in the wrestling department, and the fight took a turn toward doomsday in the second frame when a Marquez combination wobbled his opponent's legs. A head kick moments later brought Hawes' hopes crashing down in brutal fashion.

It was a nasty knockout through and through, and one that has made plenty of rounds on social media platforms in the aftermath.

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Hawes stumbled yet again when the spotlight was bright, but there are enough positives surrounding him to keep the fires burning for what could turn out to be a strong career.

Marquez defeated a super tough prospect not many fighters jump at the chance to compete against.

FloCombat Grade - Phil Hawes: D 

FloCombat Grade - Julian Marquez: A