UFC 2024 - THE TKO ERA

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UFC FIGHT NIGHT 242

UFC APEX

FIGHT PASS PRELIMS
Heavyweight Bout: Tanner Boser vs. Kirill Kornilov
Opening the night would be heavyweight action as we'd see a highly anticipated debut of Kirill Kornilov. The former glory kickboxer would find himself matched up with the tough and gritty Tanner Boser for his octagon debut. To his credit Kornilov wasn't daunted bu this and very much dominated the bout as he pieced up Boser on the feet. After stuffing a takedown attempt, Kornilov rocked Boser with a straight right and followed with a left cross for a knockout.
Result: Kirill Kornilov by 1st round KO

Women's Flyweight Bout: Mariya Agapova vs. Melissa Amaya
Highly rated unbeaten prospect Melissa Amaya would be in action in the next bout of the night as she took on veteran Mariya Agapova. This bout very much was a tale of two stories as one the feet Agapova was able to land the cleaner strikes but when the fight would inevitably go to the ground, Amaya was able to work her over with ground and pound and maintain control en route to a decision victory.
Result: Melissa Amaya by unanimous decision

Bantamweight Bout: Cody Stamann vs. Liu Pingyuan
Two Bantamweight veterans in dire need of a victory would do battle in the next bout of the night. For three rounds this would be a back and forth battle between the pair as we'd see both men look to put the other away. As the bout reached the third round we'd see Stamann land a head kick on Pingyuan which rattled him and allowed Cody to land a flurry of punches until the referee called a stop to the bout.
Result: Cody Stamann by 3rd round TKO

Welterweight Bout: Jacobe Smith vs. Matthew Semelsberger
Highly rated prospect Jacobe Smith made his much anticipated octagon debut as he took on veteran Matthew Semelsberger. This would be a dominant showing for Smith who took Matthew down early and began to punish him with ground and pound. Despite Matthew's attemts to survive eventually it would be a few extra punches leading to a knockout.
Result: Jacobe Smith by 1st round knockout

Heavyweight Bout: Andrei Arlovski vs. Alexey Oleinik
The final fight on the fight pass prelims would be a heavyweight encounter between two veterans as Andrei Arlovski took on Alexey Oleinik. Sadly this would be quite a lack luster affair with the bout mixed with failed takedowns by Alexey combined with slow, counter striking by Arlovski. In the end Arlovski was afforded a unanimous decision victory in what we'd later learn was both his and Oleinik's final bouts.
Result: Andrei Arlovski by unanimous decision

UNDERCARD
Middleweight Bout: Punahele Soriano vs. Cesar Almeida
Highly touted kickboxer Cesar Almeida made his UFC debut in the first televised bout of the undercard. With a game opponent in front of him who had no fear or qualms of standing with him. Cesar Almeida got to truly showcase his skill set which culminated with a straight right down the pike for a knockout.
Result: Cesar Almeida by 1st round Knockout

Middleweight Bout: Julian Marquez vs. Kyle Daukaus
Making his return to the octagon Kyle Daukaus looked to have something to prove against veteran Julian Marquez. After dropping Julian in the first and controlling the rest of the round. In the second round Kyle continued his onslaught culminating with a rear naked choke submission.
Result: Kyle Daukaus by 2nd round submission

Lightweight Bout: Manoel Sousa vs. Jesse Butler
Unbeaten Brazilian finisher Manoel Sousa was in action against veteran Jesse Butler in Sousa's UFC Debut. Sousa to his credit lived up to his reputation as a dangerous finisher when he dropped Jesse Butler early with an uppercut and followed with several punches on the grounded Butler for a knockout.
Result: Manoel Sousa by 1st round knockout

Light Heavyweight Bout: Dustin Jacoby vs. Nicolae Negumereanu
The final fight on the televised portion of the prelims would see two light heavyweight veterans do battle as Dustin Jacoby took on Nicolae Negumereanu. This would be a back and forth battle between the pair which was contested solely on the feet. To his credit in all the exchanges Jacoby appeared to get the better of his opponent leading to a decision.
Result: Dustin Jacoby by unanimous decision

MAIN CARD
Welterweight Bout: Kody Steele vs. Adam Fugitt
Unbeaten prospect Kody Steele made his UFC debut in the next bout of the evening against Adam Fugitt. This bout would see the highly regarded grappling specialist very much dominate Adam Fugitt. Able to take his opponent down at will, Kody came close to putting his opponent away in several submissions enroute to a decision.
Result: Kody Steele by unanimous decision

Featherweight Bout: Darren Elkins vs. Bubba Jenkins
Highly touted wrestler and veteran Bubba Jenkins made his long awaited octagon debut in the next bout of the night as he took on Darren Elkins. Despite Elkins being a tough and game opponent, this bout served as a showcase for Jenkins who in the first two rounds got the best of Elkins on the feet before in the third landing a big slam and some follow up strikes for a TKO.
Result: Bubba Jenkins by 3rd round TKO

Heavyweight Bout: Alexander Romanov vs. Rodrigo Nascimento
The next bout of the evening was sadly quite a dull heavyweight affair as Alexander Romanov and Rodrigo Nascimento faced off. In a bout which was mainly comprised of clinch work against the fence. We'd eventually go to the judges scorecards who afforded this listless affair to Rodrigo Nascimento.
Result: Rodrigo Nascimento by split decision

Flyweight Bout: Jeff Molina vs. Jussier Formiga
Former top flyweight contender Jussier Formiga looked to return to the UFC and reclaim past success as he took on standout Jeff Molina. This bout would serve as Molina's return from suspension and unfortunately for Formiga this would be a dominant showing for Molina who after hurting Jussier in the first. Would manage to put his opponent away in the second following a series of body shots. Result: Jeff Molina by 2nd round TKO

Lightweight Bout: Diego Sanchez vs. Clay Guida
A rematch from one of the UFC's greatest all time fights followed. While both Sanchez and Guida may have been long past their respective primes. What followed was an exciting back and forth battle between these two veterans. Following a fun encounter Diego Sanchez would be awarded a split decision. During the post fight interviews both Sanchez and Guida would hang up the gloves.
Result: Diego Sanchez by split decision

Bantamweight Bout: Urijah Faber vs. Brian Kelleher
The Co-Main event of the evening would see two veterans collide as Urijah Faber attempted to reestablish himself in the Bantamweight Decision. His opponent Brian Kelleher meanwhile was looking to direly pick up a much needed win. Using his wrestling, Urijah Faber was able to pick up a hard fought victory in his return.
Result: Urijah Faber by unanimous decision

Women's Strawweight Bout: Amanda Lemos vs. Tatiana Suarez
The main event of the evening would be a potential title eliminator bout between Amanda Lemos and Tatiana Suarez. Unfortunately for the fans and for Amanda Lemos who was hoping for a slug fest. This bout would very much be a grappling based affair with Tatiana Suarez using her wrestling to control Lemos for 5 rounds leading to a decision
Result: Tatiana Suarez by unanimous decision

Press Conference Notes
~ Urijah Faber called out TJ Dillashaw
~ Dana White confirmed Tatiana Suarez would be the next challenger for Weili Zhang

Cuts/Retirments
Tanner Boser
Liu Pingyuan
Matthew Semelsberger
Andrei Arlovski - Retirement
Alexander Oleinik - Retirement
Julian Marquez
Jesse Butler
Adam Fugitt
Jussier Formiga - Retirement
Diego Sanchez - Retirement
Clay Guida - Retirement
Brian Kelleher​

 

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UFC FIGHT NIGHT 247

Madrid, Spain​

For the very first time the UFC is heading to Spain! This special fight night event will take place in Spain's capital of Madrid and will be headlined by a UFC Featherweight championship defense as new Champion Ilia Topuria makes his first title defense against submission specialist Brian Ortega. The Co-Main event of the night meanwhile will be in the Bantamweight division as former title challenger Marlon Vera takes on former double champion Henry Cejudo in a pivotal clash. Ilia won't be the only Topuria on the card either as his brother Alexsandre Topuria makes his UFC debut against a fellow debutant Alessando Giordano. Meanwhile in the Lightweight division Joel Alvarez and Elves Brenner will collide in a must win fight for both men. Argentinian Welterweight veteran Santiago Ponzinibbio will also look to continue to build momentum as he takes on the debuting Stefano Paterno. Lightweight Ignacio Bahamondes meanwhile will look to continue his run as of late as he takes on the debuting Jan Quaeyhaegens. While opening the main card will be a women's bout as Veronica Hardy looks to continue her impressive form against grappler Jasmine Jasudavicuis.

On the televised side of the prelims, we know that the final fight on the prelims will see unbeaten Welterweight Michael Morales look to continue his run of form as he takes on dangerous finisher Niko Price. Ultimate fighter winner Juan Espino meanwhile will look to return to the octagon as he faces the recently debuted striker Kirill Kornilov. Bantamweight Carlos Vera meanwhile will take on debuting grappler Shirzad Qadrian. Lightweight veteran Enrique Marin meanwhile will return to the octagon as he takes on the debuting Cage Warriors standout Jordan Vucenic. Spanish Flyweight Daniel Barez meanwhile will be in action as he takes on Dylan Hazan while opening up the televised prelim portion of the event will see Barcelona's Ignacio Capella take on Esteban Ribovics.

The fight pass prelims meanwhile are loaded with rising talents all wanting to put on a show for this historic first show. The night begins with debuting countryman Enoc Solves Torres and England's James Webb. Following this David Mora will take on Diego Visanzay Lencina in a clash of Lightweight locals. Top prospect Theo Bashford meanwhile will take on England's Nik Bagley while Bantamweight standout Hecher Sosa takes on Fabia Sintes. Flyweight standout Rafael Calderon Coria meanwhile will take on fellow debutante Jawany Scott. Meanwhile again in the featherweight division Pepe Torres will look to make good on this show as he takes on grappler Milad Ahady. Argentina's Francisco Prado meanwhile will attempt to get back on the winning track against James Power while Peru's Luis Pajuelo takes on Brazil's Bruno Souza. Flyweight Kevin Borjas meanwhile takes on the debuting Lone'er Kavanagh while in Bantamweight action Daniel Marcos looks to maintain his perfect record against France's Nicolas Lebond while headling this part of the prelims will be a women's strawweight bout between Piera Rodriguez and Fatima Kline

Fight Pass Prelims
Light Heavyweight Bout: Enoc Solves Torres vs. James Webb
Lightweight: David Mora vs. Diego Visanzay Lencina
Featherweight Bout: Theo Bashford vs. Nik Bagley
Bantamweight Bout: Hecher Sosa vs. Fabia Sintes
Flyweight Bout: Rafael Calderon Coria vs. Jawany Scott
Featherweight Bout: Pepe Torres vs. Milad Ahady
Lightweight Bout: Francisco Prado vs. James Power
Featherweight Bout: Louis Pajuelo vs. Bruno Souza
Flyweight Bout: Kevin Borjas vs. Lone'er Kavanagh
Bantamweight Bout: Daniel Marcos vs. Nicolas Leblond
Women's Strawweight Bout: Piera Rodriguez vs. Fatima Kline
Under Card
Lightweight Bout: Ignacio Capella vs. Esteban Ribovics
Flyweight Bout: Daniel Barez vs. Dylan Hazan
Lightweight Bout: Enrique Marin vs. Jordan Vucenic
Bantamweight Bout: Carlos Vera vs. Shirzad Qadrian
Heavyweight Bout: Juan Espino vs. Kirill Kornilov
Welterweight Bout: Michael Morales vs. Niko Price
Main Card
Women's Flyweight Bout: Veronica Hardy vs. Jasmine Jasudavicuis
Lightweight Bout: Ignacio Bahamondes vs. Jan Quaeyhaegens
Welterweight Bout: Santiago Ponzinibbio vs. Stefano Paterno
Lightweight Bout: Joel Alvarez vs. Elves Brenner
Bantamweight Bout: Alexsandre Topuria vs. Alessandro Giordano
Bantamweight Bout: Marlon Vera vs. Henry Cejudo
UFC Featherweight Championship bout: Ilia Topuria vs. Brian Ortega

 

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UFC 302

Newark, New Jersey

Fight Pass Prelims

Women's Bantamweight Bout: Joselyene Edwards vs. Ailin Perez
Opening the night would be a grudge match in the women's bantamweight division as Joselyene Edwards took on Ailin Perez. Unfortunately for fans in attendance this bout would be a one sided grappling affair as Perez was able to take down Edwards and keep her down enroute to a decision.
Result: Ailin Perez by unanimous decision

Heavyweight Bout: Ronny Markes vs. Josh Parisian
UFC veteran Ronny Markes made his return to the UFC in the next bout of the night as he took on veteran Josh Parisian. This would be a dominant showcase for Markes who used his grappling ability to take Parisian down at will in the first before securing an arm triangle in the second.
Result: Ronny Markes by 2nd round submission

Lightweight Bout: Roosevelt Roberts vs. Melquizael Costa
The next bout of the evening would be a must win bout in the Lightweight division as Roosevelt Roberts took on Melquizael Costa. This would be a decent back and forth bout which was primarily contested on the feet. Reaching the scorecards it would be here that Roberts was afforded a decision.
Result: Roosevelt Roberts by split decision

Welterweight Bout: Mickey Gall vs. Bassil Hafez
The next bout of the night would see former looking for a fight standout Mickey Gall attempting to reclaim some of his past success as he took on Bassil Hafez. Unfortunately for Gall this bout very much was a showcase for the grappling of Bassil who took Gall down at will to take a decision.
Result: Bassil Hafez by unanimous decision

Light Heavyweight Bout: Ion Cutelaba vs. Joe Taylor
Undefeated Light Heavyweight Joe Taylor made his debut in the next bout of the night as he took on Ion Cutelaba. This bout would very much be a one sided affair as Joe Taylor was able to pick Ion Cutelaba apart on the feet on his way to a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Joe Taylor by unanimous decision

Heavyweight Bout: Walt Harris vs. Chris Barnett
The final bout on the fight pass prelims would see former ranked heavyweight Walt Harris battle the ever popular Chris Barnett. Unfortunately for Harris any hopes of a career resurgence here would be stopped thanks to a spin kick by Barnett which dropped Walt and allowed Chris to land some ground and pound for a first round knockout. Following the bout Walt Harris would put his gloves down in the cage to signal his retirement.
Result: Chris Barnett by 1st round KO

Undercard

Heavyweight Bout: Robelis Despaigne vs. Justin Tafa
Two heavyweight knockout artists collided in the next contest of the night. During the early going it seemed that Justin Tafa had plans to rush Despaigne but all this would do is play into Robelis' game. Which led to Despaigne connecting with a counter hook for an early knockout.
Result: Robelis Despaigne by 1st round KO

Lightweight Bout: Grant Dawson vs. Joe Solecki
The bout which followed would be a stark contrast from the fight before it. Instead Grant Dawson and Joe Solecki was strictly a grappling affair with Dawson able to maintain top position throughout the bout. After three rounds, Dawson would be granted a decision victory.
Result: Grant Dawson by unanimous decision

Featherweight Bout: Lance Palmer vs. Westin Wilson
Former WSOF champion and Team Alpha Male standout Lance Palmer made his debut in the next contest of the evening. This bout was very much a showcase for Lance Palmer who in the first round controlled Wilson with his wrestling before securing a guillotine choke for the submission victory.
Result: Lance Palmer by 2nd round submission

Women's Strawweight bout: Michelle Waterson vs. Gillian Robertson
In what was billed as her retirement bout Michelle Waterson looked to turn the clock back one last time as she battled gifted grappler Gillian Robertson. Unfortunately for Waterson, this fight wound up being a showcase for Robertson who quickly managed to ground her opponent and eventually secured a rear naked choke for the submission.
Result: Gillian Robertson by 1st round submission

Bantamweight Bout: Pedro Munhoz vs. Ricky Simon
The final fight on the prelims would be a must win bout for two Bantamweight veterans who have had some rough luck as of late. What followed would be an entertaining back and forth battle. In the second however we'd see the bout take a big turn thanks to a overhand by Munhoz which dropped Simon for a KO victory.
Result: Pedro Munhoz by 2nd round KO

Main Card
Welterweight Bout: Geoff Neal vs. Kevin Holland
Opening the main card this evening was an exciting Welterweight clash between veterans Geoff Neal and Kevin Holland. In a fight which was purely contested on the feet, it was clear that Neal was landing the heavier strikes while Holland was the more active striker and it was his activity which granted Holland the decision.
Result: Kevin Holland by unanimous decision

Featherweight Bout: Mosvar Evloev vs. Josh Emmett
The next bout of the night was very much a grappler vs striker affair as Mosvar Evloev looked to keep his win streak in check against the heavy handed Josh Emmett. This was very much a dominant showing for Evloev who controlled Emmett throughout the three rounds with his wrestling. However while he may have got the decision it wasn't without a late scare thanks to a heavy punch by Emmett which dropped Evloev.
Result: Mosvar Evloev by unanimous decision

Light Heavyweight Bout: Jan Blachowicz vs. Nikita Krylov
Former Light Heavyweight Champion Jan Blachowicz returned to the cage hoping to get back on the winning track against rising prospect Nikita Krylov. Krylov for his part seemed to want to ground his opponent. Unfortunately for Kylov his overzealous attempts wound up allowing Jan to connect with a series of hard punches for an early knockout.
Result: Jan Blachowicz by 1st round KO

Lightweight Bout: Dustin Poirier vs. Mateusz Gamrot
In the co-main event of the evening Dustin Poirier took on grappling ace Mateusz Gamrot. This bout was very much the tale of two fights as on the feet especially in the early going Dustin was able to hurt Gamrot and pick him off. But later in the fight Gamrot's grappling would really begin to take over and it would be that fact which gave Gamrot the decision.
Result: Mateusz Gamrot by unanimous decision

Welterweight Bout: Leon Edwards (c) vs. Belal Muhammad
Finally in the main event of the evening The UFC Welterweight champion Leon Edwards would take on top contender Belal Muhammad. This very much was a dominant showing for Leon who dominated Belal Muhammad on the feet for all five rounds in a slightly lackluster kick boxing showcase. This performance afforded Leon a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Leon Edwards by unanimous decision

Press Conference Notes
- Dustin Poirier asked for a fight with Alexander Volkanovski
- Dana White gave performance of the nights to Jan Blachowicz, Gillian Robertson and Pedro Munhoz/Ricky Simon

Cuts/Departures
Josh Parisian
Mickey Gall
Walt Harris - Retired
Westin Wilson
Michelle Waterson - Retired​

 

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UFC 306
Tokyo, Japan​

For the first time in seven years, the UFC returns to Japan! This will be for UFC 306 which will be headlined by the next title defense of Brazilian Kickboxer Alex Pereira. The reigning Light Heavyweight champion is coming off a big win at UFC 300 and will face title challenger Magomed Ankalaev. The co-main event of the evening meanwhile will also be apart of the light heavyweight division as two former champions do battle when Jiri Prochazka takes on Jamahal Hill. Unbeaten Flyweight standout Tatsuro Taira meanwhile looks to take his first step into the top ten as he takes on gritty flyweight veteran Matt Schnell. On top of this also in Flyweight action, we know that Manel Kape and Kai Kara-France will finally collide in a much anticipated grudge match. Also of note on the main card will be the octagon return of veteran Rin Nakai as she takes on Australia's Casey O'Neil. Lastly opening the main card will be the UFC debut of Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga as he takes on Ottman Azaitar.

The televised prelims meanwhile will open with two debuts in the Bantamweight division as Japan's Suya Kamikubo takes on unbeaten top prospect Austin Bashi. Following this Yura Naito will make his octagon debut against Abu Azaitar. In lightweight action both Kazuki Kasai and Kimihiro Eto will look to make good in their debuts as they face one another. While the same can be said for the next two fights in the Featherweight division as Shin Haraguchi takes on Koyomi Matsushima and Jin Aoi takes on Keisuke Sasu. Heavyweights will then be the next port of call as Chris Barnett returns to Japan to take on UFC veteran Timothy Johnson while headlining the televised prelims will be a bantamweight collision when Cody Garbrandt takes on the unbeaten Rinya Nakamura. The fight pass prelims meanwhile will begin with two bouts in the women's strawweight division as Seika Izawa takes on Miki Motono while Chihiro Sawada makes her octagon debut against Ariane Carnelossi. In Featherweight action meanwhile Masuto Kawana will battle Kouya Kanda while Daichi Takenaka takes on Tokitaka Nakanishi. While in flyweight action Rei Tsuruya looks to continue his unbeaten run against CJ Vergara. Veteran Masanori Tanaka meanwhile returns to the octagon to take on Shohei Nose and finally Masayuki Kikuira battles Gilbert Urbina.

Fight Pass
Women's Strawweight Bout: Seika Izawa vs. Miki Motono
Women's Strawweight Bout: Chihiro Sawada vs. Ariane Carnelossi
Featherweight Bout: Masuto Kawana vs. Kouya Kanda
Bantamweight Bout: Daichi Takenaka vs. Tokitaka Nakanishi
Flyweight Bout: Rei Tsuruya vs. C.J Vergara
Bantamweight Bout: Masanori Tanaka vs. Shohei Nose
Welterweight Bout: Masayuki Kikuiri vs. Gilbert Urbina
Under Card
Bantamweight Bout: Shuya Kamikubo vs. Austin Bashi
Middleweight Bout: Yura Naito vs. Abu Azaitar
Lightweight Bout: Kazuki Kasai vs. Kimihiro Eto
Featherweight Bout: Shin Haraguchi vs. Koyomi Matsushima
Featherweight Bout: Jin Aoi vs. Keisuke Sasu
Heavyweight Bout: Chris Barnett vs. Timothy Johnson
Bantamweight Bout: Rinya Nakamura vs. Cody Garbrandt
Main Card
Lightweight bout: Yuji Yannick Ephoeviga vs. Ottman Azaitar
Women's Flyweight Bout: Rin Nakai vs. Casey O'Neil
Flyweight Bout: Manel Kape vs. Kai Kara-France
Flyweight Bout: Tatsuro Taira vs. Matt Schnell
Light Heavyweight Bout: Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill
UFC Light Heavyweight Championship: Alex Pereira (c) vs. Magomed Ankalaev

 

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UFC FIGHT NIGHT: LONDON

London, England

FIGHT PASS PRELIMS
Welterweight Bout: Danny Roberts vs. Mason Jones
Welterweights would kick off the night as Danny Roberts took on Mason Jones. With both men having had some rough patches in the cage the pressure was on in this bout and we'd see quite the competitive kickboxing match between the two before it was the veteran Roberts who was awarded the split decision.
Result: Danny Roberts by split decision

Featherweight Bout: Nathaniel Wood vs. Erik Silva
UK prospect Nathaniel Wood would be in action against featherweight standout Erik Silva. This bout was very much a showcase fight for Nathaniel Wood who was shown to have a major striking advantage and he used this to the full to pick Silva apart enroute to a unanimous decision.
Result: Nathaniel Wood by unanimous decision

Light Heavyweight Bout: Modestas Bukauskas vs. Brendson Ribeiro
Light Heavyweight action would then be the next port of call for the evening as Modestas Bukauskas battled Brendson Ribeiro. This would be a scrappy back and forth fight. After three rounds of action it would be Modestas Bukauskas who was awarded a split decision victory.
Result: Modestas Bukauskas by split decision

Lightweight Bout: George Hardwick vs. Darrius Flowers
Making his UFC debut, top UK prospect George Hardwick very much had a lot of hype to live up to and he more than did that in what proved to be a showcase bout against Darrius Flowers. This bout was very much dominated on the feet by Hardwick who eventually put his opponent away with a series of body shots.
Result: George Hardwick by 2nd round TKO

Lightweight Bout: Jai Herbert vs. Jamie Mullarkey
Two lightweight veterans badly in need of wins would collide in the next bout of the night as Jai Herbert took on Jamie Mullarkey. This would be a back and forth striking contest in which we saw both men have their moments. After three rounds, it would be Jai Herbert who was awarded a split decision.
Result: Jai Herbert by split decision

Lightweight Bout: Marc Diakiese vs. Evan Elder
The final fight on fight pass would sadly be a relatively underwhelming fight as both Marc Diakiese and Evan Elder seemed content to keep this fight pressed up against the fence before the fight reached the score card. After three rounds of action it would be Evan Elder who was awarded a decision.
Result: Evan Elder by unanimous decision

UNDERCARD
Welterweight Bout: Sam Patterson vs. Oban Elliot
Two Welterweight standouts did battle in the next contest of the night which very much was a striker vs grappler match. While both men had their moments it was Elliot's striking advantage which allowed him to out point Sam Patterson on the way to a unanimous decision victory.
Result: Oban Elliot by unanimous decision

Lightweight Bout: Chris Duncan vs. Damir Hadzovic
The next bout of the night would very much be a war of attrition between Chris Duncan and Damir Hadzovic. This would be a very scrappy back and forth battle in which both men would be rocked on several occasions. In the end it would be Chris Duncan who was awarded a hard fought decision.
Result: Chris Duncan by unanimous decision

Middleweight Bout: Christian Leroy Duncan vs. Ihor Potiera
In middleweight action strikers Christian Leroy Duncan and Ihor Potiera would do battle in the next bout of the evening. This would be an exciting striking contest in the early going of the bout before the striking experience of CLD began to take hold. In the third round a knee to the body dropped Potiera and several strikes followed for a TKO.
Result: Christian Leroy Duncan by 3rd round TKO

Heavyweight Bout: Mick Parkin vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta
Heavyweight action followed in the next bout of the night. Unfortunately for the fans in attendance this was an extremely dull fight which very much spent a majority of time pressed up against the fence. Following three rounds of lack luster action, the fight would be awarded to Mick Parkin.
Result: Mick Parkin by unanimous decision

Women's Strawweight Bout: Molly McCann vs. Mizuki Inoue
The final fight on the prelims was in the women's strawweight division. This was very much a bout of two stories with Mizuki Inoue looking to ground her opponent while Molly McCann kept managing to wobble her on the feet. Eventually this fight hit the scorecards with a decision being afforded to Molly.
Result: Molly McCann by split decision

MAIN CARD
Featherweight Bout: Brendan Loughnane vs. Kevin Aguilar
Making his much anticipated return to the UFC. UK Featherweight standout Brendan Loughnane had a lot of hype behind him as he stepped in to fight veteran Kevin Aguilar. This bout was very much a showcase for the striking of Loughnane who rocked Kevin several times in the first round before knocking him out in the second with a headkick.
Result: Brendan Loughnane by 2nd round knockout

Middleweight Bout: Darren Till vs. Bryan Barberena
Looking to make a successful return to the octagon after a brief exodus. Former title contender Darren Till took on gritty veteran Bryan Barberena. This bout would very much be a dominant, return to form for Till who dropped Bryan with a straight left and followed up with some ground elbows for a TKO.
Result: Darren Till by 1st round TKO

Featherweight Bout: Lerone Murphy vs. Edson Barboza
Featherweight standout Lerone Murphy then entered in a career best performance as he dominated veteran Edson Barboza. Not only proving himself able to hurt Edson on the feet on several occasions, Lerone also controlled Edson on the ground for a unanimous decision.
Result: Lerone Murphy by unanimous decision

Featherweight Bout: Arnold Allen vs. Bryce Mitchell
Featherweight Contenders Arnold Allen and Bryce Mitchell would then face off and this would be a striker vs grappler clash. To his credit Allen showed some improved takedown defense as he force Mitchell into a purely stand up fight and managed to pick him apart for a decision.
Result: Arnold Allen by unanimous decision

Flyweight Bout: Muhammad Mokaev vs. Brandon Royval
The co-main event of the evening was a flyweight bout as Muhammad Mokaev battled Brandon Royval. This was a fight of two stories as Mokaev managaged at times to control Royval on the ground while on the feet it was royval who was getting the better of his opponent. After three rounds of action, Royval was awarded a debated decision verdict.
Result: Brandon Royval by split decision

Welterweight Bout: Stephen Thompson vs. Michael Page
Finally it was time for the main event of the evening which was very much a straight up kick boxing match between MVP and Wonder Boy. In a fight contested on the feet purely, we'd see these two counter strikers very much be patient and look to counter one another. Following five rounds of action MVP was awarded a split decision.
Result: Michael Page by split decision

Press Conference Notes
~ Mick Parkin called for a fight with Jhonata Diniz.
~ Brendan Loughnane asked for a ranked opponent.
~ Darren Till called for a bout with Gerald Meerschaert
~ Muhammad Mokaev called for a rematch with Brandon Royval
~ Performance of the nights went to Loughnane and Till with fight of the night going to Herbert and Mullarkey
Cuts/Retirements
Erik Silva
Darrius Flowers
Damir Hadzovic
Kevin Aguilar
Bryan Barberena​

 

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UFC NOCHE​

The UFC returns to Mexico! With it long being rumored and reported that the UFC wanted to put on it's first show inside the Sphere. This special event will run in line with Mexican Independence Day. The UFC of course last featured in Mexico a year previously with the sequel in the ongoing series of fights between Valentina Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso. This event will be packed full of Mexican talent. Opening the event on fight pass will be the debut of Alex Sanchez as he takes on veteran Rafa Garcia. Following this will be the debut of Russia's Olga Rubin as she fights Montserrat Rendon. Following this will be the debuts of two women's strawweights as Dana Garcia takes on Andra Vasquez. While in Light Heavyweight action, we will see the debut of Mexico's Jose Daniel Medina as he takes on dangerous Brazilian Mario Sousa. Following this two Mexican fighters in dire need of a win will do battle as Montserrat Ruiz battles Melissa Martinez. Meanwhile in Welterweight action Efrain Escudero looks to make one last run in the UFC octagon as he takes on the debuting Nayib Lopez. Finally in the last fight on the fight pass prelims will be a flyweight bout as Edgar Chairez battles Victor Altamarino.

The Prelims meanwhile begin with Fernando Padilla in action as he takes on the debuting Edgar Escarrera. Erik Perez will then make his UFC return as he battles Alejandro Corrales in Featherweight action. Following this will be a clash in the flyweight division as Ronaldo Rodriguez takes on Cesar Vasquez. Rising prospect Yazmin Jauregui meanwhile will look to secure her biggest win to date as she takes on submission specialist Gillian Robertson. Christian Quinonez meanwhile will look to pick up a much needed win against the debuting David Mendoza. Lightweight Daniel Zellhuber will look to continue his impressive run of form against Pablo Sabori while in the final fight on the prelims. Flyweight prospect Jesus Santos Aguilar will take on Paulino Siller.

The Main Card meanwhile will open with a ranked bout in the women's strawweight division as Loopy Godinez takes on Marina Rodriguez. Following this Lightweight standout Manuel Torres will look to maintain his unbeaten octagon record as he takes on returning UFC veteran Rodrigo Vargas. Rising bantamweight Raul Rosas Jr meanwhile will face off with Jose Roura while in Welterweight action Tim Means will look to play the spoiler for Ultimate Fighter winner Kelvin Gastelum. Ranked Women's Bantamweight Irene Aldana meanwhile will take on the dangerous Josiane Nunes while in featherweight action Yair Rodriguez looks to get back on the right track as he takes on the surging Sean Woodson. The co-main event of the evening will see former flyweight champion Brandon Moreno face striker Matheus Nicolau while headlining the card will be the third fight in the ongoing rivalry between Valentina Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso.

Fight Pass
Lightweight Bout: Rafa Garcia vs. Alex Sanchez
Women's Bantamweight Bout: Montserrat Rendon vs. Olga Rubin
Women's Strawweight Bout: Dana Garcia vs. Andrea Vasquez
Light Heavyweight Bout: José Daniel Medina vs. Mario Sousa
Women's Strawweight Bout: Monserrat Ruiz vs. Melissa Martinez
Welterweight Bout: Efrain Escudero vs. Nayib Lopez
Flyweight Bout: Edgar Chairez vs. Victor Altamirano

Prelims
Featherweight Bout: Fernando Padilla vs. Edgar Escarrera
Featherweight Bout: Erik Perez vs. Alejandro Corrales
Flyweight Bout: Ronaldo Rodríguez vs. Cesar Vasquez
Women's Strawweight Bout: Yazmin Jauregui vs. Gillian Robertson
Bantamweight Bout: Christian Quinonez vs. David Mendoza
Lightweight Bout: Daniel Zellhuber vs. Pablo Sabori
Flyweight Bout: Jesús Santos Aguilar vs. Paulino Siller
Main Card
Women's Strawweight Bout: Loopy Godinez vs. Marina Rodriguez
Lightweight Bout: Manuel Torres vs. Rodrigo Vargas
Bantamweight Bout: Raul Rosas Jr. Vs. Jose Roura
Welterweight Bout: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Tim Means
Women's Bantamweight Bout: Irene Aldana vs. Josiane Nunes
Featherweight Bout: Yair Rodriguez vs. Sean Woodson
Flyweight Bout: Brandon Moreno vs. Matheus Nicolau
Women's Flyweight Championship: Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko

 

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Dana White Tuesday Night Contender series​

Week One

Flyweight Bout: Shawn Da Silva (6-0) vs. Justin Scoggins (15-6)
Kicking off night one of the contender series would be unbeaten standout Shawn Da Silva taking on former UFC veteran Justin Scoggins. This would be a back and forth scrap with Scoggins looking to take down Shawn Da Silva and soften him up with ground and pound while Da Silva looked to keep the fight standing. After three rounds of action Da Silva would manage to pick up a unanimous decision victory having managed to keep the majority of the fight standing.
Result: Shawn Da Silva by unanimous decision.

Heavyweight Bout: Artur Szpilka (3-0) vs. Kelvin Tiller (12-5)
Heavyweight action followed in the second bout of the night as Bellator and PFL veteran Kelvin Tiller took on former professional boxer turned MMA fighter Artur Szpilka. This fight would stay standing for three rounds but unfortunately it would be a pretty listless affair. As Kelvin Tiller wasn't able to mount much offense on the feet and Artur Szpilka was in turn able to stay behind the jab for the decision.
Result: Artur Szpilka by unanimous decision

Light Heavyweight Bout: Ivan Shtyrkov (22-2-1) vs. Luke Trainer (8-1)
In Light Heavyweight action we would see a clash between Russia and England as ACA and Rizin veteran Ivan Shtyrkov took on Bellator veteran Luke Trainer in what was a classic striker vs grappler match. Following a slow start in the first round for both men, the second round would provide everyone with a shock as Trainer managed to drop Ivan with a overhand left. Pouncing on his stunned opponent, Luke would then secure a rear naked choke for the victory.
Result: Luke Trainer by second round submission

Women's Bantamweight Bout: Melissa Croden (5-2) vs. Rizlen Zouak (8-5)
The fourth bout of the night would see a clash between France and Canada. In one corner would be Judo olympian Rizlen Zouak while opposing her would be rising LFA prospect Melissa Croden. As the bout began, it was clear that Rizlen Zouak looked to impose her Judo abilities in order to take her opponent to the ground. Unfortunately for Zouak it would be a switch hook by Croden which hurt her badly and allowed Croden to follow up with some punches on the ground for an early TKO.
Result: Melssa Croden by 1st round TKO

Lightweight Bout: Aaron Mckenzie (11-2-1) vs. Nate Jennerman (17-5)
Former ultimate fighter teammates would collide in the next fight as Aaron McKenzie and Nate Jennerman of TUF 31 fame would do battle. With both men being grappling specialists this fight would very much be contested on the ground throughout the three rounds. Following three solid rounds of competitive grappling action, the fight would go to the score cards where Nate Jennerman would be afforded a split decision.
Result: Nate Jennerman by split decision

Bantamweight Bout: Hunter Azure (10-3) vs. Nate Smith (7-4)
Former UFC and Ultimate Fighter veteran Hunter Azure would look to make another run for the octagon here as he took on Contender Series alumni Nate Smith. This would be quite an exciting back and forth fight which was contested a lot on the feet with Azure at points mixing in his wrestling. During the third round however Nate managed to drop Azure with an overhand right but during the ensuing scramble, Azure was able to clamp on a tight guillotine for the victory.
Result: Hunter Azure by third round submission

Middleweight Bout: Virgil Augen (7-0) vs. Mariusz Ksiazkiewicz (11-2)
The final bout of the night would see Mariusz Ksiazkiewicz look to return to the contender series as he took on France's Virgil Augen. Unfortunately for Mariusz this would be a dominant showing for Augen who dominanted his opponent everywhere the fight went. As the bout neared the end of the first round a knee from Augen would drop Mariusz and this allowed Virgil to follow him to the ground where he locked on a arm triangle for the submission.
Result: Virgil Augen by 1st round submission

Dana White's Verdict
Shawn Da Silva - Although Dana White said he usually likes finishes, he was impressed with Da Silva and his record. Based on this he would be offering him a contract.

Justin Scoggins - Despite his defeat Dana would give a shout out to Scoggins and mention a future flyweight season of the Ultimate Fighter.

Artur Szpilka - Citing his age and lack of experience not too mention a not so impressive performance. Dana passed on signing Artur.

Luke Trainer - Calling Luke a true standout. Dana signed Luke without hesitation.

Melissa Croden - Again impressed with an early finish against a tough opponent. Dana signed Croden.

Nate Jennerman - While he was impressed with the exchanges, Dana passed on Jennerman. He did however mention that both Jennerman and McKenzie would be offered another shot on DWCS.

Nate Smith - Calling it twice now that Smith has impressed Dana in defeat. Dana White made the surprising decision to sign Nate Smith.

Hunter Azure - Impressed with Hunter's resilience to keep coming back. Dana offered him a second shot in the UFC.

Virgil Augen - Calling Virgil the star of the show. Dana offered the Frenchman a contract and a spot on a future paris card.

 

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UFC RETURNS TO KOREA​

For the first time in 2024 the UFC will head to Korea. The last time the UFC headed to Korea it was in 2023 and the card was headlined by the retirement fight of legend Korean Zombie. This time around the card will be stacked with rising Korean talents hoping to become legends in their own right. This will begin with the debut of Ho Young Yoon who takes on contender series standout Shawn Da Silva. Following this Chang Ho Lee will look to continue his impressive winning streak as he battles Bantamweight veteran Hunter Azure. Welterweight Sang Uk Kim will make his debut as he takes on Trey Waters. Following this in Lightweight action Eoh Jin Park will debut against fellow local countryman and veteran Juri Ohara. While in Heavyweight action both Myung Hwan Kim and Hae Jun Yang will also look to make good on their UFC debuts. The final fight of the fight pass prelims will see Seung Woo Choi look to get back on the winning track as he takes on the debuting Dong Hyun Seo. On the televised portion of the prelims meanwhile Su Young You will make his debut against the always exciting Alateng Heili. Lightweight standout Chan Soo Park meanwhile will make his UFC debut against TUF and DWCS contender Nate Jennerman.

The next bout of the night will be in the flyweight division and we will see Jun Young Lee face Dong Jo Joo in both men's octagon debuts. Former UFC veteran Jo Bin Sung meanwhile will make his return to the octagon as he takes on veteran Joanderson Brito. In Middleweight action, heavy handed Seok Hyun Ko will make his UFC debut against Dani Barbir. Bantamweight veteran Kyung Ho Kang meanwhile will take on DWCS standout Nate Smith. Jewels standout Si Woo Park meanwhile will make her octagon debut as she faces returning veteran Kay Hansen. The final fight of the prelims meanwhile will see Jeong Yeong Lee look to get back on the winning track as he takes on Road veteran Hae Jin Park. On the main card unbeaten Light Heavyweight Tae In Kim will make his debut against Ryan Spann. Following this we have an exciting middleweight clash as Jun Yong Park takes on kick boxing standout Cesar Almeida. Top prospect So Yul Kim will also debut against heavy handed Molly McCann. In flyweight action we know Min Woo Kim will debut against Nate Maness while undefeated prospect Hyun Sung Park looks to maintain his record against Jeff Molina. Jewels and Rizin standout Seika Izawa will make her debut against Lacey Schuckman. Meanwhile Rizin and One veteran Hyun Sung Park will debut against Casey Kenney while in the co-main event of the evening Doo Ho Choi will look to resume his winning ways against Ryan Hall. Lastly in the main event of the night unbeaten Brazilian Vitor Petrino will take on former Champion Jan Blachowicz.

Fight Pass Prelims
Flyweight Bout: Ho Young Yoon vs. Shawn Da Silva
Bantamweight Bout: Chang Ho Lee vs. Hunter Azure
Welterweight Bout: Sang Uk Kim vs. Trey Waters
Lightweight Bout: Eoh Jin Park vs. Juri Ohara
Heavyweight Bout: Myung Hwan Kim vs. Hae Jun Yang
Featherweight Bout: Seung Woo Choi vs. Dong Hyun Seo

Televised Prelims
Bantamweight Bout: Su Young You vs. Alateng Heili
Lightweight Bout: Chan Soo Park vs. Nate Jennerman
Flyweight Bout: Jun Young Lee vs. Dong Jo Joo
Featherweight Bout: Jo Bin Sung vs. Joanderson Brito
Middleweight Bout: Seok Hyun Ko vs. Dani Barbir
Bantamweight Bout: Kang Kyung-ho vs. Nate Smith
Women's Strawweight Bout: Si Woo Park vs. Kay Hansen
Featherweight Bout: Lee Jeong-Yeong vs. Hae Jin Park
Main Card
Light Heavyweight Bout: Tae In Kim vs. Ryan Spann
Middleweight Bout: Jun Yong Park vs. Cesar Almeida
Women's Strawweight bout: So Yul Kim vs. Molly McCann
Flyweight Bout: Min Woo Kim vs. Nate Maness
Flyweight Bout: Park Hyun-sung vs. Jeff Molina
Women's Strawweight Bout: Seika Izawa vs. Lacey Schuckman
Bantamweight Bout: Soo Chul Kim vs. Casey Kenney
Featherweight Bout: Doo Ho Choi vs. Ryan Hall
Light Heavyweight Bout: Jan Blachowicz vs. Vitor Petrino

 

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Dana White Tuesday Night Contender Series Night Two​

Week Two

Featherweight Bout: Quang Le (7-0) vs. Alejandro Perez (22-9-1)
Opening the show would be former TUF Latin America cast member and UFC veteran Alejandro Perez in action as he took on unbeaten prospect Quang Le. Despite Alejandro Perez's attempts in the early going to take this fight to the mat, this bout very much proved to be a showcase of Quang Le's striking. Following a dominant showing in the first, Le managed to drop Perez with a head kick and followed with a flurry of punches for a second round TKO.
Result: Quang Le by 2nd round TKO

Heavyweight Bout: Rizvan Kuniev (12-2-1) vs. Hatef Moeil (15-4)
Two heavy hitting heavyweights would do battle in the next fight of the evening as Russia's Rizvan Kuniev took on Germany's Hatef Moeil. This would very much be an aggressive bout with both men throwing some bombs at one another's way until a series of uppercuts by Rizvan managed to floor Moeil for a knockout.
Result: Rizvan Kuniev by 1st round KO

Middleweight Bout: John Martin Fraser (7-4) vs. Chris Camozzi (27-15)
Former Ultimate Fighter contestant and UFC veteran Chris Camozzi looked to make his return to the octagon. Opposing him would be Australia's John Martin Fraser. This would be a scrappy back and forth contest which saw Camozzi use leg kicks to keep Fraser at bay. While Camozzi had success with the leg kicks to his credit it was the power of Fraser which came into play as he'd drop Camozzi a few times and this afforded him a decision victory.
Result: John Martin Fraser by unanimous decision

Light Heavyweight Bout: Tomasz Narkun (20-6) vs. Patrik Kincl (28-10)
Former KSW and M1 Champion Tomasz Narkun was in action in the next bout of the evening as he took on experienced veteran Patrik Kincl. This fight would be a dominant showing for Narkun who took his opponent down at will and controlled him with his grappling. After two rounds of domination, Narkun forced a submission in the third round with a kimura.
Result: Tomasz Narkun by 3rd round submission

Women's Strawweight Bout: Rosemary Brito Conceicao (7-0) vs. Caroline Gallardo (9-4)
Chilean strawweight and combate veteran Caroline Gallardo would be in action in the next bout opposite Brazilian LFA Champion Rosemary Conceicao. This would be a back and forth fight with both women having their moments but it was the more well rounded attack of Brito which gave her the edge where ever the fight ended dup and awarded Brito the unanimous decision victory.
Result: Rosemary Brito Conceicao by unanimous decision

Heavyweight Bout: Mario Pinto (8-0) vs. Junior Albini (17-6)
Unbeaten heavyweight Mario Pinto would find himself matched up with his toughest test to date as he took on UFC veteran Junior Albini. To his credit however Pinto would pass this test with flying colors as he landed a short hook on a break to Albini which knocked out the veteran for a emphatic first round knockout.
Result: Mario Pinto by 1st round knockout

Welterweight Bout: Quemuel Ottoni (12-3) vs. Carlos Leal (21-5)
The first man to defeat Alex Pereira in MMA would be in action in the main event as Quemuel Ottoni battled veteran Carlos Leal. Unfortunately for the former PFL veteran Carlos Leal this bout was a showcase for Ottoni who hurt Leal early and connected with a flurry of punches for a first round knockout.
Result: Quemuel Ottoni by 1st round knockout

Dana White's Verdict
Quang Le - Dana White was very impressed with the unbeaten prospect and his stoppage victory over a former UFC veteran. Without hesitation, Dana confirmed he would offer Le a contract.

Rizvan Kuniev - Citing the UFC's need for quality heavyweights, Kuniev was the next signing of the evening.

John Martin Fraser - While Dana White was impressed with Fraser's grit. He cited Fraser's inability to finish Camozzi as a reason for not signing him.

Tomasz Narkun - Despite umming and ahing that Narkun could have finished his opponent sooner. Dana said based on his history, Narkun was a no brainer.

Rosemary Brito Conceicao - Impressed with her record and well rounded skills. Dana confirmed Rosemary would also be offered a contract.

Mario Pinto - Very impressed with Pinto's stoppage win. Dana welcomed Pinto officially to the UFC.

Quemuel Ottoni - Described as one of the true standouts of the evening. Dana again called this signing a no brainer.

 

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Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender Series - Week Three​

Welterweight Bout: Michael Oliveira (7-0) vs. Ben Saunders (23-13-2)
Opening the third week of the Contender Series, we'd see former UFC, Ultimate fighter and Bellator veteran Ben Saunders look to make a return to the UFC. Standing across from him would be undefeated finisher Michael Oliveira. Unfortunately for the more experienced Saunders, this bout was very much a showcase of the unbeaten Oliveira who managed to drop Saunders with a big overhand early before finishing with a series of punches for a knockout.
Result: Michael Oliveira by 1st round knockout

Middleweight Bout: Yousri Belgaroui (7-3) vs. David Zawada (19-9)
Another UFC veteran looking to make a return would be Germany's David Zawada. Opposing him in this bout would be Tunisian native and former Glory kickboxer Yousri Belgaroui. This bout would very much be controlled and dominated by the kickboxer Belgaroui who was able to keep the fight standing and pick Zawada apart en route to a third round TKO following a series of knees in the clinch to the body.
Result: Yousri Belgaroui by 3rd round TKO

Women's Bantamweight Bout: Queila Braga (7-2) vs. Zurina Turrey (3-0)
Women's Bantamweight action was the next port of call for the evening as LFA veteran Queila Braga battled unbeaten standout Zurina Turrey. Unfortunately for both women this was a relatively listless and uninspired clash in which both women seemed hesitant to pull the trigger. Following three rounds of action it would be Quela Braga who was awarded a split decision verdict.
Result: Queila Braga by split decision

Featherweight Bout: Dustin Lampros (9-0) vs. Sheymon Moraes (15-6)
Another UFC veteran looking to make a return to the octagon would be PFL standout Sheymon Moraes. Standing across from Moraes would be unbeaten Kill Cliff standout Dustin Lampros. Unfortunately for Moraes he'd be hurt early on by Lampros and never seemed to quite make a recovery leading to Lampros in the second round dropping Moraes and following up with several more strikes for a TKO.
Result: Dustin Lampros by 2nd round TKO

Women's Strawweight Bout: Sofiia Bagishvili (10-4) vs. Stephanie Hernandez (4-1)
The next bout of the evening would see LFA veteran Stephanie Hernandez take on UAE and KSW veteran Sofiia Bagishvili. This would very much be a grappling heavy bout with the KSW veteran controlling the action. After stifling Hernandez and putting her in numerous positions throughout the bout, we'd see in the third round that Sofiia managed to lock on a kimura for the submission.
Result: Sofiia Bagishvili by 3rd round submission

Heavyweight Bout: Alexander Podmarev (21-5) vs. Domingos Barros (8-1)
Russian ACA veteran Alexander Podmarev would collide with Portuguese Bellator veteran Domingos Barros. With both men known for their power and finishing ability it seemed the real difference maker in the bout was the technique which Podmarev possessed. As not only was he able to land cleaner with his strikes but he also mixed in his ground game on Barros. This allowed him in the second round to take Barros down and land some big ground and pound for the finish.
Result: Alexander Podmarev by 2nd round KO

Bantamweight Bout: Jerrell Hodge (10-4) vs. Jonas Magard (16-6)
The final bout of the evening would see Bellator and LFA veteran Jerrell Hodge take on highly regarded standout Jonas Magard. This bout would very much be a dominant showing for Magard who managed to pick Hodge apart on the feet while also controlling him on the ground. Following three rounds of action, Magard would be offered a decision verdict.
Result: Jonas Magard by Unanimous decision

Dana White's Notes

Michael Oliveira - Calling Oliveira's win over a former UFC veteran highly impressive. Dana White called his signing a no brainer.

Yousri Belgaroui - After praising Belgaroui's pedigree, Dana would offer him a contract.

Queila Braga - At this time Dana would pass on Braga but wouldn't be opposed to her returning to the Contender.

Dustin Lampros - Calling this another no brainer, Dana would offer Lampros a contract.

Sofiia Bagishvili - Calling this one a tough one as he wasn't overly impressed. Dana eventually relented to give Bagishvili a contract.

Alexander Podmarev - Branding Podmarev an exciting prospect, Dana was happy to welcome him to the heavyweight division.

Jonas Magard - Proclaiming magard as his personal standout of the night. Dana said he was very excited to see what would come next as he offered him a contract

 

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UFC Fight Night confirmed

Las Vegas, Nevada​

The UFC will again return to Vegas this year for a special fight night card in it's home of Las Vegas, Nevada. Believed to be another event honoring the UFC's history in a year which has already celebrated UFC 300. We know that this stacked event will feature a couple of former world champions and also some very interesting debuts. Opening the night on Fight Pass will be a heavyweight clash between two returning veterans Darko Stosic and Luis Henrique. Following this highly touted grappling ace Garry Tonon will be making his UFC debut as he takes on Kaynan Kruschewsky. Following this will be the highly anticipated UFC debut of former One FC Middleweight champion Reinier De Ridder as he takes on AJ Dobson. The final fight on the fight pass prelims will see Cody Brundage take on Kyle Daukaus. The televised portion of the prelims meanwhile will see unbeaten Joe Taylor take on former KSW standout Ibragim Chuzhigaev. In middleweight action meanwhile Nursulton Ruziboev will take on PFL standout Mohammad Fakhreddine. Lightweight action will then follow as former ultimate fighter contender and bellator veteran Saul Rogers makes his UFC Debut against Jalin Turner. Anthony Smith meanwhile will look to reestablish himself as a contender as he takes on undefeated French standout Oumar Sy.

Former One Champion Marat Gafurov meanwhile will also make his octagon debut against returning TUF China winner Zhang LiPeng. Women's Flyweights will also be in action as touted Brazilian Luana Santos battles Julija Stoliarenko while rounding out the prelims would be undefeated prospect Shara Magomedov taking on former title contender Darren Till. The main card meanwhile will open with a clash between two rising, young prospects as Terrance McKinney battles Chase Hooper. In women's strawweight action former ranked contender Tecia Torres will take on the returning Seo Hee Ham. One veteran Koyomi Matsushima meanwhile makes his debut against striker Hakeem Dawodu. Former Bellator champion Yaroslav Amosov will also make his debut against fellow debuting veteran Karl Amoussou. While in Middleweight action two ranked Middleweights will do battle when Roman Dolidze looks to defend his top ten ranking against Michel Pereira. Meanwhile in Heavyweight action Sergei Pavlovich will look to return to winning path as he takes on Serghei Spivac. The Co-Main event meanwhile will be the retirement of Holly Holm as in her final fight she takes on Ailin Perez while in the main event of the night Volkhan Oezdemir takes on Israel Adesanya in Light Heavyweight action.

Fight Pass
Heavyweight Bout: Darko Stosic vs. Luis Henrique
Lightweight Bout: Garry Tonon vs. Kaynan Kruschewsky
Middleweight Bout: Reinier De Ridder vs. AJ Dobson
Middleweight Bout: Cody Brundage vs. Kyle Daukaus

Under Card
Light Heavyweight Bout: Ibragim Chuzhigaev vs. Joe Taylor
Middleweight Bout: Mohammad Fakhreddine vs. Nursulton Ruziboev
Lightweight Bout: Saul Rogers vs. Jalin Turner
Light Heavyweight Bout: Anthony Smith vs. Oumar Sy
Welterweight Bout: Marat Gafurov vs. Zhang LiPeng
Women's Flyweight Bout: Luana Santos vs. Julija Stoliarenko
Middleweight Bout: Sharabutdin Magomedov vs. Darren Till

Main Card
Lightweight Bout: Chase Hooper vs. Terrance McKinney
Women's Strawweight Bout: Seo Hee Ham vs. Tecia Torres
Featherweight Bout: Koyomi Matsushima vs. Hakeem Dawodu
Welterweight Bout: Yaroslav Amasov vs. Karl Amoussou
Middleweight Bout: Roman Dolidze vs. Michel Pereira
Heavyweight Bout: Serghei Pavlovich vs. Serghei Spivac
Women's Bantamweight Bout: Holly Holm vs. Ailin Perez
Light Heavyweight Bout: Volkhan Oezdemir vs. Israel Adesanya

 

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Dana White Tuesday Night Contender series Week Four​

Welterweight Bout: Geno Morelli (2-0) vs. Aymard Guih (17-13-1)
Opening the fourth week of Dana White's Contender Series, undefeated Penn State wrestler Geno Morelli would take on French veteran Aymard Guih. Thanks to his experience Aymard Guih would prove to be a tough challenge for Geno especially when it came to getting him down to the ground. However over time Geno's wrestling managed to take hold and in the second round he'd soften Aymard up with ground and pound before clamping on an Arm Triangle for the win.
Result: Geno Morelli by 2nd round submission

Women's Strawweight Bout: Julie Mezabarba (11-5-1) vs. Ashley Nichols (7-4)
The second bout of the night would see LFA veteran Ashley Nichols take on Julie Mezabarba. This bout would prove to be an exciting back and forth stand up battle. As Brazil's Mezabarba had no issue in exchanging with the Glory veteran Nichols. After three rounds of close action, Mezabarba would be awarded a split decision.
Result: Julie Mezabarba by split decision

Lightweight Bout: Raush Manfio (17-5) vs. Ivan Castillo (24-17)
Former PFL tournament winner Raush Manfio would be in action in the next bout of the night against veteran journeyman Ivan Castillo. The 34 year old Bellator veteran Castillo was looking for a career resurgence in this bout but sadly a big left hook by Manfio dropped him early in the fight and several punches followed for an early knockout for the PFL standout.
Result: Raush Manfio by 1st round KO

Light Heavyweight Bout: Vagab Vagabov (30-1-1) vs. Tom Breese (18-4)
Former UFC veteran Tom Breese looked to make a return to the UFC in the next bout of the night. However he'd find himself with stiff opposition in WSOF and M1 champion Vagab Vagabov. The heavy hitting Vagabov would rock Breese early in the bout and a quick flurry followed for an early knockout.
Result: Vagab Vagabov by 1st round KO

Heavyweight Bout: Azamat Nuftillaev (15-1-1) vs. Mario Freitas Piazzon (7-0)
Two dangerous Heavyweights would collide in the next bout of the night as Uzbekistan's Azamat Nuftillaev battled Brazil's Mario Piazzon in what was Piazzon's second chance on the contender series. Continuing on the train of early finishes a standing elbow by Mario dropped Azamat and several punches on the ground followed for a KO.
Result: Mario Piazzon by 1st round KO

Women's Strawweight Bout: Leslie Hernandez (3-1) vs. Huaxiang Dong (11-2)
Surging LFA prospect Leslie Hernandez looked to continue her impressive run of form in the next bout of the night. Opposing her would be experienced wrestler Huaxiang Dong. This would be a story of two different fights as most of the fight was dominated by Hernandez. But as we got into the third round Leslie began to falter with her cardio an this allowed Dong to nearly clamp on a submission. Escaping the hold however Leslie managed to land several shots from top position for a TKO.
Result: Leslie Hernandez by 3rd round TKO

Flyweight Bout: Bilal Hasan (4-0) vs. Dias Erengaipov (15-3)
Kazakhstan would be represented in the next bout of the night as ACA veteran Dias Erengaipov battled unbeaten standout Bilal Hasan. The top rated prospect Hasan very much looked the part in this bout as he rocked Dias with a left hook early and a big flurry of punches to the head and body led to a standing TKO finish.
Result: Bilal Hasan by 1st round TKO

Dana White's review

Geno Morelli - Despite his inexperience, Dana considered Morelli more than ready for a shot in the UFC.

Julie Mezarbarba and Ashley Nichols - Remarking he was impressed with both women and the skills they showed tonight. He would be offering both women contracts.

Raush Manfio - Calling this one a no brainer. Dana welcomed Raush to the UFC.

Vagab Vagabov - Again citing this as a no brainer. Dana welcomed Vagab to the UFC.

Mario Piazzon - Impressed with his record and killer instinct, Dana welcomed Mario to the UFC.

Leslie Hernandez - After debating her experience and showing. Dana would eventually agree to give Leslie a shot.

Bilal Hasan - Calling this another no brainer. Dana would offer Bilal a contract.

 

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UFC returns to Abu Dhabi​

For the first time this year the UFC heads to Abu Dhabi for UFC 307. Bringing with it a stacked card including not one but two title fights. The event will start with fight pass prelims and this time around we will see a bunch of hungry, young prospects looking to up their stocks. This would begin with a clash between unbeaten flyweight Phumi Nkuta and veteran Jose Johnson. Following this another unbeaten prospect Ramazan Gitinov will make his UFC debut against veteran Austin Hubbard. Russia's Rakhim Midaev will also make his UFC debut against fellow debuting standout Nkosi Ndebele. Highly touted heavyweight wrestler Ant Cassar meanwhile will look to pick up his second UFC victory as he takes on returning veteran Jaris Danho while top prospect Losene Keita looks to make good on his UFC debut opposite Jason Knight. Highly regarded prospect Ruslan Gabaraev meanwhile will take on veteran Karlos Vemola while Tony Laramie battles Louis Jourdain in a clash of Flyweight standouts.

Rasul Magomedov meanwhile will also look to make it 2-0 in the UFC against Antonio Gordillo while in the last fight on fight pass, Dubai's Dzhamaludin Aliev looks to keep his unbeaten record against Albania's Vilson Ndregjoni. The televised prelims meanwhile will open with a key fight in the welterweight division as Joaquin Buckley takes on gritty veteran Li Jingliang. Following this former Bellator Middleweight champion Rafael Carvalho takes on the debuting M1 standout Stephan Puetz before we return to the Welterweight division when Kevin Holland takes on Gilbert Burns. After this top unbeaten prospect Bella Mir steps into the cage once again as she takes on Irini Alekseeva while we then follow with Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Atilla Vegh looking to make it 2-0 in the octagon against Dustin Jacoby, while the final fight on the under card will see unbeaten Jhonata Diniz take on Justin Tafa.

The main card meanwhile will open with a striker vs grappler bout in the heavyweight division as Tai Tuivasa takes on Alexander Romanov. Following this the highly regarded Diego Lopes will look to continue his ascent up the featherweight rankings as he takes on Josh Emmett. Welterweight standout Jack Della Madallena will look to continue his impressive run against Michael Page. Before in a key fight in the women's Flyweight division Natalia Silva will battle Rose Namajunas. The co-main event of the night meanwhile will be for the UFC Lightweight championship of the world as Islam Makhachev battles Charles Oliveira in a much anticipated rematch while in the main event of the evening, Welterweight champion Leon Edwards faces the highly dangerous Shavkat Rakhmonov.

Fight Pass
Flyweight Bout: Phumi Nkuta vs. Jose Johnson
Lightweight Bout: Ramazan Gitinov vs. Austin Hubbard
Bantamweight Bout: Rakhim Midaev vs. Nkosi Ndebele
Heavyweight Bout: Ant Cassar vs. Jaris Danho
Featherweight Bout: Losene Keita vs. Jason Knight
Light Heavyweight Bout: Ruslan Gabaraev vs. Karlos Vemola
Flyweight Bout: Tony Laramie vs. Louis Jourdain
Light Heavyweight Bout: Rasul Magomedov vs. Antonio Gordillo
Bantamweight Bout: Dzhamaludin Aliev vs. Vilson Ndregjoni

Prelims
Welterweight Bout: Joaquin Buckley vs. Li Jingliang
Light Heavyweight Bout: Stephan Puetz vs. Rafael Carvalho
Welterweight Bout: Kevin Holland vs. Gilbert Burns
Women's Bantamweight Bout: Bella Mir vs. Irini Alekseeva
Light Heavyweight Bout: Atilla Vegh vs. Dustin Jacoby
Heavyweight Bout: Jhonata Diniz vs. Justin Tafa

Main Card
Heavyweight Bout: Tai Tuivasa vs. Alexander Romanov
Featherweight Bout: Diego Lopes vs. Josh Emmett
Welterweight Bout: Jack Della Madallena vs. Michael Page
Women's Flyweight Bout: Natalia Silva vs. Rose Namajunas
Lightweight Championship: Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira
Welterweight Championship: Leon Edwards vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov

 

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Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender Series Week Five​

Flyweight Bout: Luis Elias (8-1) vs. Mitch Raposo (9-1)
Opening up the third week of the Contender series we'd see a clash between UWCM alumni Luis Elias and former contender series and Ultimate Fighter participant Mitch Raposo. This fight would be quite the scrappy encounter with Raposo having his moments on the ground while Elias got the better of the fight while on the feet. In the third round however this would change when a flurry of punches by Elias had Raposo reeling before a vicious elbow gave Elias the win.
Result: Luis Elias by 3rd round knockout

Welterweight Bout: Sergey Khandozhko (28-6-1) vs. Nikolay Aleksakhin (29-7)
UFC veteran Sergey Khandozhko would look to return to the octagon as he faced off with fellow countryman and PFL and One FC veteran Nikolay Aleksakhin. This fight would very much be a sloppy brawl for all the opening round as both men were throwing heavy strikes until Nikolay connected with a big hook and some follow up punches to earn a first round TKO.
Result: Nikolay Aleksakhin by 1st round TKO

Women's Bantamweight Bout: Kennedy Freeman (5-0) vs. Jackie Maclean (4-2)
Undefeated English prospect Kennedy Freeman would be in action in the next bout of the night as she took on Canada's Jackie MacLean. This bout very much was a showcase of the ground game of Kennedy Freeman who took MacLean down at will and proceeded to relentlessly beat her down with ground and pound until the referee called the fight.
Result: Kennedy Freeman by 2nd round TKO

Women's Bantamweight Bout: Aniela Bogusz (4-0) vs. Pearl Gonzalez (11-6)
Another unbeaten prospect in the Bantamweight division would be youtuber and fame mma star Aniela Bogusz. Fighting former UFC veteran Pearl Gonzalez this fight would be a showcase of Bogusz's grappling as she continually managed to ground Pearl and look for submissions until finally in the third round, she managed to catch Pearl in a rear naked choke for the submission.
Result: Aniela Bogusz by 3rd round submission

Light Heavyweight Bout: Maxim Grishin (33-10-2) vs. Tuco Tokkos (10-3)
Former UFC veteran Maxim Grishin would look to make a return to the octagon in the next bout of the night as he took on England's Tuco Tokkos. This fight would very much be a dominant showing for Grishin who was shown to have little issue in taking Tokkos to the mat but it seemed like Grishin never really got out of first gear. This would be until in the final minute of round three where Maxim began landing some strikes from the mount leading to the fight to be called off.
Result: Maxim Grishin by 3rd round TKO

Women's Strawweight Bout: Jazmin Navarrete (6-0) vs. Maristela Alves (5-3)
Undefeated prospect Jazmin Navarrete would be in action next as she took on Brazil's Maristela Alves. A highly technical striker, Jazmin very much picked her opponent apart as she used all four ways of striking to slowly break down Maristela Alves. While she never could quite put her away, this fight was a dominant showcase of the undefeated Mexican.
Result: Jazmin Navarrete by unanimous decision

Women's Strawweight Bout: Matsuda Arisa (5-0) vs. Fabiola Pidroni (5-2)
Undefeated prospect Matsuda Arisa was the next fighter to make the walk to the cage as she took on Fabiola Pidroni. This bout would very much be a one sided affair as Arisa was able to slam Pidroni down to the mat quickly and wasted no time in landing some vicious ground and pound for an early TKO.
Result: Matsuda Arisa by 1st round TKO

Middleweight Bout: Magomed Ismailov (18-3-1) vs. Azamat Bekoev (17-3)
Middleweight would be the next port of call as ACA and M1 Veteran Magomed Ismailov battled ACA and LFA standout Azamat Bekoev. Unfortunately this wouldn't be the most exciting fight of the night as the first round and majority of the second would be dominated by heavy clinch work from Ismailov. In the third however Bekoev was able to secure a takedown and not long after he'd grab an arm triangle for the submission.
Result: Azamat Bekoev by 3rd round submission

Lightweight Bout: Felipe Douglas (24-6) vs. Jairo Pacheco (7-2)
The final bout of the night would be a fight between countrymen as Felipe Douglas and Jairo Pacheco did battle. This would hands down be the fight of the night with both men looking to impress. At times we'd see both men hurt and nearly knocked out or submitted before finally the bout reached it's conclusion and Felipe Douglas was awarded a split decision.
Result: Felipe Douglas by split decision

Dana's Comments

Mitch Raposo: Admitting that he was impressed with Raposo up until he got caught. Dana said that if anyone fell out of a fight anytime soon, he would be getting a call.

Luis Elias: Impressed with Elias' finishing instincts. Dana officially welcomed Elias to the UFC.

Nikolay Aleksakhin: While a fan of the finish, Dana did hesitate briefly on this one based on the sloppy nature of the fight before calling it now or never for Aleksakhin. With that in mind he welcomed him to the UFC.

Kennedy Freeman: Remarking he was thoroughly impressed with this girl. Dana officially signed Kennedy Freeman.

Aniela Bogusz: Again Dana had some concerns this time relating to if Bogusz was ready for the UFC. After debating it he'd agree to give her a chance.

Maxim Grishin: Praising Grishin for looking to return. Dana said while it was impressive he was so dominant he felt that stoppage could have come a lot sooner. For now he is not interested!

Jazmin Navarrete: Blown away with what he saw from her on the feet. Dana officially signed Navarrrete.

Matsuda Arisa: Calling this a no brainer, Dana welcomed Matsuda to the UFC.

Azamat Bekoev: Again this was one which Dana wasn't sure of but knowing that this again was a now or never chance for Bekoev. Dana officially welcomed him to the cage.

Jairo Pacheco and Felipe Douglas: Blown away with the fight. Dana offered both men in the main event UFC contracts.

 

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UFC RETURNS TO THE APEX FOR FIGHT NIGHT!​

The UFC will return to the UFC Apex once more for another Fight Night event! This UFC Fight Night event will be chocked full of hungry prospects all looking to make their impact in the Octagon. Opening up the event on fight pass will be the octagon debut of Matheus Camilo as he takes on the UK's Paul Hughes. Following this Mongolia's Badmatsyren Dorzhiev will make his octagon debut against fellow debutant from the UAE Hadi Omar Al Hussaini. Undefeated prospect Mansur Abdul-Malik will also make his UFC debut as he faces M1 Veteran Dauren Ermekov. Undefeated Light Heavyweight prospect Muslim Magomedov will also look to keep his record in tact against Brendson Ribeiro while in the final fight on Fight Pass, undefeated Islam Omarov makes his debut against gritty veteran Charles Jourdain.

The televised portion of the prelims meanwhile will begin with Quemuel Ottoni looking to make his UFC octagon debut against dangerous striker Carlos Prates. George Hardwick meanwhile will look to continue momentum off his successful UFC debut as he takes on grappling ace Grant Dawson. Russian ACA veteran Khusein Shaykhaev meanwhile will his octagon debut against veteran Cody Stamman while top rated wrestler Bubba Jenkins looks to maintain his UFC success against the dangerous Ricardo Ramos. Undefeated prospect Josiah Harrell meanwhile makes his UFC debut opposite Yusaku Kinoshita. While in the final fight on the televised portion of the undercard will see Ghana's Adamu Isah take on TUF veteran Cody Gibson.

Meanwhile the main card of the show will open with the much anticipated debut of Nick Piccininni. The undefeated Flyweight will take on tough veteran Charles Johnson. Another top ranked undefeated fighter Jacobe Smith will also make his UFC debut as he takes on Ultimate Fighter winner Court McGee. Two top Flyweight prospects will also collide as Myanmar's Joshua Van battles top rated Chinese flyweight Yin Shuai. The Co-Main event of the night will see top rated women's bantamweight striker Cong Wang battle ranked opponent Julia Avila while in the main event of the evening in a Light Heavyweight clash, top contenders Aleksandar Rakic and Johnny Walker will do battle in a clash of Light Heavyweight strikers.

Fight Pass
Featherweight Bout: Matheus Camilo vs. Paul Hughes
Flyweight Bout: Badmatsyren Dorzhiev vs. Hadi Omar Al Hussaini
Middleweight Bout: Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Dauren Ermekov
Light Heavyweight Bout: Muslim Magomedov vs. Brendson Ribeiro
Featherweight Bout: Islam Omarov vs. Charles Jourdain

Preliminary Card
Welterweight Bout: Carlos Prates vs. Quemuel Ottoni
Lightweight Bout: George Hardwick vs. Grant Dawson
Bantamweight Bout: Khusein Shaykhaev vs. Cody Stamann
Featherweight Bout: Bubba Jenkins vs. Ricardo Ramos
Welterweight Bout: Josiah Harrell vs. Yusaku Kinoshita
Bantamweight Bout: Adamu Isah vs. Cody Gibson

Main Card
Flyweight Bout: Nick Piccininni vs. Charles Johnson
Welterweight Bout: Jacobe Smith vs. Court McGee
Flyweight Bout: Joshua Van vs. Yin Shuai
Women's Bantamweight Bout: Cong Wang vs. Julia Avila
Light Heavyweight Bout: Johnny Walker vs. Aleksander Rakic