UFC Edmonton ‘Moreno vs. Albazi’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring

Jamey-Lyn Horth (126) vs. Ivana Petrovic (125)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Horth (-205), Petrovic (+170)

Round 1

In July 2019, the promotion last posted up at the Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, with a pay-per-view offering that put a featherweight belt on the line. At night’s end, Max Holloway defended his throne against Frankie Edgar, with the co-headliner seeing Cris Cyborg punish Felicia Spencer. Five and change years later, the UFC comes back to the same building, with a fight card that is far less stacked but still ram-packed with Canadian talent. The night opens with Canadian faithful getting a home country woman in Horth (6-1-1, 1-1 UFC) setting foot in the cage. She battles Norway’s Petrovic (7-1, 1-1 UFC), in a contest between who ladies who each sport a single decision win on their respective ledgers. Referee Blake Grice is on call for the first assignment of the night, and he checks the fight in as the flyweights touch gloves. Petrovic immediately gets behind her jab, and she flicks up a head kick. Horth swipes out with two right hands, but comes up short and is warned for outstretched fingers. Petrovic returns to the center of the cage, catching a body kick and looking for a counter. Petrovic walks square into an overhand right, and she does not like it. Rather than slugging it out, Petrovic meanders forward into a clinch, where she jams Horth up and presses her across the cage to the wall. Clapping and chants for “Let’s go Jamey” come down in support of the local lady, but she is unable to channel their energy to get out of the clinch. Petrovic continues grinding despite the warning for Grice to do something, and when she gets a little too aggressive with a level change, Petrovic is spun around. When Horth starts pressing, she is countered and dumped on her head with a head-and-arm throw. Horth tugs her toes on the fence in hopes of escaping bottom position, while Petrovic lords over her and smacks her occasionally with hammerfists and clubbing strikes. Horth pushes her foe off and fights back to her feet, and she gloms onto Petrovic to bop her in the noggin a few times. Horth threatens with her own trip takedown, and she succeeds in sneaking a hook around when taking the back. Horth snatches hold of a rear-naked choke without both hooks in, and the submission is on the face and Petrovic is standing up trying to wriggle her off the back. Horth loses her grip and falls to her back, where Petrovic sits on top elbowing her in the face. Petrovic stops Horth’s scrambles until the bell sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Petrovic
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Petrovic
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Petrovic

Round 2

The ladies clap hands to start the second stanza, and Petrovic shifts early to the middle of the cage and paws out a side kick. Petrovic reaches out with a left hook that is parried, and she smacks the front leg with a kick. Horth responds with a body kick, and Petrovic grabs it and chucks Horth to the ground like a side of Canadian bacon. When Petrovic assumes top position, Horth throws her legs up and sets up an armbar. Petrovic stacks her opponent up to keep the weight pressed down and safe herself from getting tapped, and Horth smacks her in the gut a few times with awkward hammerfists when the submission leverage dissipates. Petrovic walks from one side to the other, all while maintaining pressure, and she drops elbows down to further irritate the Canadian. Petrovic rests her knees on Horth’s forehead while keeping all the pressure she can muster on top of Horth. Petrovic finally slides her arm out of danger, standing up briefly to lower herself down. Horth scrambles at the right moment, and the ensuing movement results in a brief wardrobe malfunction for Petrovic, who looks to Grice for relief. Grice tells them to fight on, and she gets spun around and pushed to the wall. Horth breaks out of it and kicks her opponent in the ribs, and Petrovic does not make her pay for the naked kick. Petrovic sets up a left hand down the middle, and Horth retaliates with a flurry of punches that redden the Norwegian woman’s nose up. They trade straight strikes one after the other, seeing openings and lowering their defenses to throw more. Petrovic whips a kick to the side and then one up high, and they go after body strikes. Petrovic shoots for a takedown when Horth overswings, and Horth’s sprawl defends her from getting put on her back. Horth jumps for a guillotine, but time expires before anything comes of it.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Horth
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Horth
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Horth

Round 3

One final glove touch is shared between the two, and fists are soon to fly after. Petrovic reintroduces herself with a salvo of punches, catching Horth unaware and outdoing her with volume. Horth strides forward intent on forcing a clinch, and she is soon spun around with her back pushed to the wire. As Petrovic imposes her will, Horth explodes out of the tie-up and starts throwing hands. Petrovic backs off, dodging one series of punches but eating the second. Petrovic lands, Horth gives her one back to think about, and Petrovic comes back at her. A Horth high kick glances off the shoulder, and she sets up another with a pair of punches. Petrovic spins with a back fist, and Horth sees it coming and clinches her. With her back against the wall, Petrovic tries to counter her foe with another head-and-arm throw, but Horth sees it coming and shifts. Petrovic tries for another on the other side, and Horth leans against the fencing to not go down. Horth uses a turning Petrovic to toss her to the ground, and she jumps onto Petrovic’s back to set up a submission. Petrovic lowers herself down and shimmies her way out of danger, where she gains top position as Horth closes her guard. Petrovic drops down hammerfists until Horth hits a quick sweep, putting Petrovic on her seat. Both women spring back to their feet and punches their way into a clinch. Horth walks her foe down and kicks her in the side, and Petrovic responds with one of her own. Horth bites down on her mouthpiece and starts slugging it out, and Petrovic retreats and tries to counter but is beaten to the punch a few times. Petrovic fails on a takedown and backs away just enough to dodge a head kick. Horth shoots for a single-leg takedown, and Petrovic turns her about to land on top. Petrovic drops down ground-and-pound until the final horn, and it could be a close one.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Horth (29-28 Horth)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Horth (29-28 Horth)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Horth (29-28 Horth)

The Official Result

Jamey-Lyn Horth def. Ivana Petrovic via Split Decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)

Chad Anheliger (135) vs. Cody Gibson (135.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Gibson (-198), Anheliger (+164)

Round 1

Sticking with the theme of Canada vs. the World, Anheliger (13-7, 2-2 UFC) reps his home nation against Tachi Palace Fights vet Gibson (20-10, 2-5 UFC). A whole eight (or nine, depending on Caio Machado) of the 13 matchups remaining on the lineup will feature a Canuck against a foreign adversary, and so far, Canada is 1-0 tonight. Looking to keep things rolling with a win from “The Monster,” the fans are fired up on the early prelims. Referee Jerin Valel draws the charge for this bantamweight clash, and the combatants touch ‘em up to get started. Anheliger takes to the center of the cage and parries a front kick, and he eventually gives back an inaccurate calf kick. Gibson sticks and moves, walking into a right hand and responding with a low kick. Anheliger wings a right hand over the top, stunning “The Renegade” for a moment. Anheliger slips a counter and tries to get past his opponent’s longer jab, and he fires off a low kick that lands with a thud and not a slap. Gibson jabs his way into a clinch, where he lifts Anheliger in the air and slams him down to his knees. Anheliger scoots towards the fence, and Gibson slides a hook in and stretches Anheliger out. Anheliger tries to kick off the fencing, and Gibson responds by setting up an arm-triangle choke. Anheliger uses several heel kicks to the kidney to irritate his opponent and prevent him from passing guard, although Gibson is in half guard looking for that arm-triangle, and he uses it to move to mount. Anheliger turns over to give up his back, scrambling madly, but Gibson is a dog with a bone and he does not let go. Anheliger manages to work to his feet again, and Gibson quickly mat returns him down to his knees. Anheliger tries to roll through, and Gibson follows him every step of the way. Even when Anheliger walks of the fence, he puts himself into submission danger as Gibson sells out for a guillotine choke. Gibson rolls the Canadian over with a one-arm guillotine, and he leans on the side in hopes of completing the sub without fastening it. Gibson is pushed off the chest of his adversary, threatening with a brabo choke as he transitions from one submission to the next. Anheliger survives the choke until the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Gibson
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Gibson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gibson

Round 2

Anheliger practically races out of his corner to resume combat, but he pulls back and does not throw. Gibson swings first, and when Anheliger counters, Gibson ducks under and hits an easy takedown. Gibson lands in half guard, where he is quick to use shoulder pressure with an arm-triangle before sliding to full mount like a hot knife through poutine. Gibson allows Anheliger to turn and twist so he can beat on him and flatten him out, and Gibson punches his way into a rear-naked choke setup. The forearm is on the chin and not under it, and he adjusts his grip and slashes down with a ferocious elbow that slashes open the Canadian’s forehead. Gibson maintains a body lock while threatening with a sub or battering Anheliger with strikes, and Anheliger is completely nullified and having to hang on for dear life. Gibson drops down three particularly powerful elbows, and he takes advantage of the new 12-6 elbow rule removal by hammering Anheliger with one. Gibson grabs hold of an arm-triangle choke, and he only releases it to shift over to the side. Gibson slides back to mount just so he can lock on the arm-triangle choke, and he jumps back to the side. Anheliger defends by grabbing his own leg, using it to create just enough space to sit up and then work his way to the fence. Gibson hangs on from behind, looping a hook between his foe’s legs so he can try to drag Anheliger back down. Gibson succeeds in wrenching Anheliger to the mat, and he hovers over his opponent until he decides to move to the side and grab an arm-triangle. “The Renegade” lets it go when seeing openings for strikes, and he drops down nasty ground-and-pound to make Anheliger think twice about his life decisions leading up to today. Gibson holds with a body triangle and punches his man on the side of the head until time expires.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Gibson
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Gibson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gibson

Round 3

Anheliger does not appear deflated despite two tough rounds against him, instead surging out of his corner and tossing aside a front kick. Anheliger lances out a left hand that shakes Gibson up, and he gets the crowd excited by landing cleanly on the Californian. Gibson desperately shoots for a takedown, and even when he lands on his back, a scramble and sweep allows him to spin Anheliger to his back. Gibson lords over his opponent, not settling in any one position while starting to open up with body shots. Anheliger has nothing to offer off his back, and precious seconds peel off the clock while Gibson methodically beats on him like a drum. Anheliger turns to his side and leans against the wall to stand up, and he pulls himself upright and draws a warning from Valel for fence grabbing. It does not slow Anheliger, but Gibson remains tightly wrapped around his waist. Gibson settles for grinding on and controlling the Canadian, and he stifles a counter throw to wrestle Anheliger to his knees. Anheliger’s attempts to escape are thwarted one after the other, and Gibson gets a hook in on the outside. Anheliger counters by cranking on the leg, and the crowd likes it until Gibson establishes a body lock around the waist. Gibson briefly threatens with an arm-triangle choke again, but Anheliger is able to fight it off. Gibson postures up with seconds to spare, landing swinging punches until the final horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Gibson (30-26 Gibson)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Gibson (30-27 Gibson)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gibson (30-27 Gibson)

The Official Result

Cody Gibson def. Chad Anheliger via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)

Garrett Armfield (135) vs. Serhiy Sidey (135)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Sidey (-148), Armfield (+124)

Round 1

Fresh off a two-fight series against Ramon Taveres outside and then in the Octagon, Ontario’s own Sidey (10-2, 0-1 UFC)—who is originally from Ukraine—has visions of facing new opponents. He draws former Glory MMA fighter Armfield (10-4, 2-2 UFC) in a bantamweight tussle, one between two men with 80% stoppage rates. Referee Andy Social may have his hands full as long as this one lasts, although it does kick off with a sporting glove touch. Sidey opens up with a heavy leg kick, and he stands firm in the middle of the Octagon in hopes of defending it from threats foreign and domestic. Armfield has a right hand bounce off the guard, and he tries another that does the same. Sidey splits the guard with a front kick, and after pitching a failed head kick, he goes for the front kick again to decent results. Armfield flicks out a few jabs, marking up Sidey’s nose. Armfield sits down on a left hook, landing it flush and smiling. Sidey steps in with an elbow and knees his man in the chest, and he intercepts Armfield with a sharp jab. The front kick from Sidey leads to a low kick, and Armfield ignores them both so he can walk the Canadian down and throw hands. Sidey’s front kick comes up short, and Armfield thumps him back with a leg kick. A low kick from Armfield bounces off the cup, and they share a glove touch without a pause. Sidey jabs with his fist and his outstretched toes, keeping Armfield at bay. Armfield doubles up a jab to put a big right hand behind it, and Sidey sets up a jump elbow. Sidey sticks his man with a head kick, and Armfield shakes it off with a double jab and a right hand. The punches from Armfield lead to a tackling takedown, and Sidey fastens up an anaconda choke and rolls the correct direction. Armfield turns to his back, and Sidey wrenches with all his might. Armfield signals a thumbs-up, and when he escapes the submission he sticks his head in the lion’s mouth again immediately by scooping up the Canuck and depositing him gingerly to the mat. Sidey tries to pull himself to a better position illegally using the fence, and Social does not let him get away with it. Sidey does turn to the side to escape, and he chases after Armfield and throws a kick. Booming chants for Sidey fire him up, who starts swinging spinning, high-amplitude kicks. The momentum bowls him and his opponent to the wall, and the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Sidey
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Sidey
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Sidey

Round 2

The bantamweights meet in the middle and start trading kicks, with Sidey using his longer limbs to keep Armfield from slugging him back. Armfield pushes forward to collapse the pocket flinging fists, and Sidey shells up and drives a step-in knee to the chest. Sidey probes with a jab, and he sticks Armfield with a straight left hand after a body kick. Armfield does not flinch, even when taking another solid knee to the midsection, so he can put hands on face. Sidey uses anything he can to push Armfield away, but Armfield is able to close the gap and hit him hard. Sidey gets off strikes on the inside, but Armfield’s are much heavier and draw reactions every time they connect. They jab at the same time, and Sidey’s do not fluster Armfield but the same cannot be said the other direction. Sidey jabs and ends up eating a right hand over the top for his effort, and Armfield strings a low kick into solid one-two. Armfield takes a leg kick so he can wind up with a right hand, and he sweeps the leg and almost forces Sidey to hit the deck. Armfield marks up Sidey’s nose further with crisp boxing, and he turns a Sidey takedown around to shove him against the wall. Armfield bails on the clinch so he can keep punching Sidey in the face, and he allows Sidey to overswing so he can line up a short right hook. Sidey walks into a jab and absorbs a right hand that follows, and he goes to the body to try to slow his man down. Sidey stings Armfield with a jab and a right hook, and he jumps forward and kicks Armfield the side. Armfield’s poker face dissipates and he looks like he is not having as good of a time, and Sidey stalks him down and belts him to the ribs with a kick and blasts him in the face with an overhand right. Sidey connects with an uppercut and a fierce elbow, and he triples up a jab and swings for the fences. Armfield gives him something to think about with a strong combo, and Sidey smashes Armfield in the ribs to eject his mouthpiece. Social calls time to allow Armfield to replace it, and when they resume, Armfield attacks with all he has until the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Armfield
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Armfield
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Armfield

Round 3

The fighters pick up right where they left off trading leather, and Armfield trips Sidey up with a kick and they clash chests together. They split up, and Armfield swings his way to set up a level change. Sidey lands on his back and sets up a guillotine choke, and Armfield does not appear remotely concerned as he looks to pass to the side while still caught in the choke. Armfield keeps moving, allowing Sidey to turn over so he can climb on the back. Sidey stands back up with a mean-spirited backpack riding him, and Armfield starts hunting for a rear-naked choke. Sidey hits the ground while defending the submission, but he uses the momentum shift to turn Armfield over and establish top position. Armfield closes his guard and absorbs a few body shots before exploding to force the fight standing again. Sidey looses kick, and Armfield times it to take Sidey down to the mat again. Sidey’s defensive guillotine is nowhere near as threatening, and Armfield practically ignores it completely to relocate to full mount. Sidey turns over to give his back up, and Armfield thanks him for this by getting a hook in. Armfield drags Sidey down so he can get the other hook in and stop Sidey from spinning out. Sidey pushes off the fence to force them back to their feet, and he walks Armfield down and knees him twice. Sidey unloads with a pair of body kicks, and Armfield easily takes him to the ground and steps to the side to thwart a nearly automatic guillotine defense. Armfield drops down one elbow when finding an opening, and he slows things down by presiding in half guard. Armfield decides to shift to the side, and he lets Sidey turn so he can set up a back take. Sidey is wise to it this time, hand-fighting well enough to stop Armfield from firmly establishing control. Armfield clings from the side, and he wrenches on the face until the horn blares.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Armfield (29-28 Armfield)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Armfield (29-28 Armfield)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Armfield (29-28 Armfield)

The Official Result

Serhiy Sidey def. Garrett Armfield via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Rodrigo Nascimento (264) vs. Alexander Romanov (261)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Nascimento (-112), Romanov (-108)

Round 1

Hulking heavyweights grace the cage, with the two big men combining for about 525 pounds of meat in the Octagon not counting anything re-added on Friday and today. A smiling referee Marc Goddard will add to that poundage without putting the integrity of the fighting area at risk. Romanov (17-3, 6-3 UFC) and Nascimento (11-2, 1 NC; 4-2, 1 NC UFC) celebrate submission rates above 50%, so grappling could be the difference maker here. Large gloves are touched, and Nascimento is amped up and jittery as he stands before the Moldovan. Nascimento punches his way forward, only to be met with a crashing Romanov, who grips hold of him and slings him to his knees. Nascimento scoots his way to the fence and gets up, and “King Kong” creates a hurried mat return when wrestling heavily. Nascimento defends himself from taking any damage other than a single knee to the thigh, and he keeps himself on one knee to defend himself from getting kneed in the face. Romanov pounds on the thigh with several more high-amplitude knees, and Nascimento wriggles his way upright. Romanov slams him down on his face, and Nascimento has to blink out the impact and gets back to leaning on the wall. Romanov’s knees to the backside continue thudding one after the other, and Nascimento is stuck in a frustrating position. As soon as he gets back up, Romanov tosses him back to his knee. Romanov’s knees add up as they tag the same spot again and again, and Romanov lets him stand back up so he can trip him out and drop him on his back. Romanov lands in half guard, pressing down on the jaw of his foe with the early stages of an arm-triangle. Nascimento inches his way to the fence to put it behind his neck, and Romanov sets up a crucifix by placing his knee on top of the Brazilian’s left arm. Romanov commits to a straight armbar from on top, and he transitions it to a keylock—also known as an Americana—to crank the shoulder with the fist going backwards towards the head. Romanov drops down hammerfists and punches until time elapses.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Romanov
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Romanov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Romanov

Round 2

The big men bump fists to get started, and Nascimento wants to take advantage of the fight starting on the feet by swinging for the bleachers. Nascimento lands a strike or two before Romanov presses forward, pushing the Brazilian to the wire while pursuing a takedown. During the stalemate, the audience decides to voices its disapproval of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Nascimento manages to gain space, but he sells out to defend a single when Romanov drops down after it. Nascimento crawls his way towards the fence, and Romanov delivers more of his thumping knees to the posterior. Nascimento explodes to his feet, and Romanov hangs onto him while trying to sway him to the ground. Goddard asks for more action, spurring Romanov into lifting Nascimento up and throwing him to his knee. Romanov gladly knees Nascimento in the backside several more times until he transitions to a body lock as Nascimento yanks himself upright. Goddard splits them up when determining Romanov is just clinging to him, and Nascimento thanks him for this by setting up a right hand. Nascimento connects with two punches, and Romanov tags him with a pair of left hands. Nascimento scores a jab and a right hand, and Romanov’s hands are down and he lets go with retaliatory power punches. Romanov works the body and is countered with a right hand up top, and Nascimento pitches a head kick at him. Romanov blocks and responds with a few punches, and he catches Nascimento clean with a monster left hand. Nascimento splits the uprights with a low kick, and Romanov lets out a groan and leans over as Goddard calls time. Romanov is compromised and not having a good time, but he thinks about restarting after a minute break as Goddard counsels him to not hurry back after such a clear and painful foul. Romanov says he is good to go after a minute and 45 seconds, and Goddard issues a stern warning to the Brazilian. Romanov starts off with two big left hands, and he slips a punch by dipping to the side. Nascimento loads up but hits air, and the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Romanov
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Romanov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Romanov

Round 3

The heavyweights tap gloves, and it takes no more than a punch or two from Nascimento before Romanov runs at him to tackle him. They slam into the fence so hard that they rebound off of it, and Romanov somersaults backwards and appears to clutch his leg momentarily. The Moldovan gets back to his feet without issue, and he returns to striking range standing directly in front of his opponent. Nascimento paws out with a low kick and a few punches, and Romanov nods at him and slugs him square in the chops. Romanov chops at the front leg and follows with an overhand right, and he slides away from a counterpunch. Romanov lands another low kick but is met with a one-two, and he tries a Superman punch and groans when it is blocked. When Romanov offers a high-five, Nascimento just stares at him. Romanov retracts his hand, jabbing twice before blasting the Brazilian in the face with a successful Superman punch. Nascimento comes at him swinging, but Romanov shrugs them off and spins with a back fist that smacks “Yogi Bear” upside the head. Romanov pecks out with a jab and follow-up strikes, and he stands firm and looks at his adversary as if his controller was disconnected. When Nascimento walks him down, Romanov meets him with a long flurry of punches to the body and head, bloodying Nascimento’s nose in short order. Romanov’s hands stay low, and he still manages to land cleaner and more frequently than his foe. Nascimento relies on big single strikes, and they are telegraphed and labored after over 13 minutes of heavyweight heavyweighting. Romanov winds up on a left hook, and he is out of range and jabbed to the body in response. Romanov jabs the body with a kick, and he ducks a right hook. Nascimento bops Romanov in the face with a left and then a right, and he gets his head snapped back from power punches from the Moldovan. Nascimento walks Romanov down swinging with everything he has, and he draws a brief reaction out of Romanov but does not get out of the way of a powerful counter. One last Superman punch from Romanov seals the deal, and the hulking heavyweights reach the final bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Romanov (30-27 Romanov)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Romanov (30-27 Romanov)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Romanov (30-27 Romanov)

The Official Result

Alexander Romanov def. Rodrigo Nascimento via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Jack Shore (145.5) vs. Youssef Zalal (145)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zalal (-258), Shore (+210)

Round 1

What was once an extremely promising resume listed at 16-0 has transformed into 17-2 in the span of two years for Welshman Shore (17-2, 6-2 UFC). A pair of stoppages have turned him away from elite opposition, and he now draws a resurgent Zalal (15-5-1, 5-3 UFC) in what should be a fast-paced and exciting featherweight affair. The third man in the Octagon will be referee Luke Boutin, clocking the fighters in as they share a swift tap of gloves. Zalal immediately sticks out a jab, and Shore’s eye is red instantly. Zalal pushes out a front kick and dodges a jab, and he puts a few leg kicks on his opponent’s front wheel. Shore tries to check one and comes out swinging with an overhand right, and the Zalal jabs have further transformed his face to a redder color. Shore crashes the pocket and shoots for a single, and Zalal leans against the fence to defend it. Zalal watches the video screen to see the other side of his opponent, and Shore wrenches him down to his hands. Shore legally knees Zalal in the face while Zalal’s hands are down, and Zalal drops down to a single knee before blasting to his feet. Shore elevates his man down once more, and Zalal lowers himself to a knee to not get kneed in the face. Zalal works his way up and pushes Shore to the wall, and Shore explodes out of it and whips a kick at “The Moroccan Devil.” Zalal loads up on power strikes, opening him up to a three-punch counter. As the fighters trade hands, the fans again decide it is the right time to voice a political opinion about their current leader. Shore takes a few punches on the chin to push Zalal to the wall, and Zalal uses a kimura to turn Shore around. Zalal uses a body lock to lower Shore to the mat, and he hits the ground in half guard. Zalal wraps his arm around Shore’s head to keep him pinned down to the ground, but Shore still fights out of the choke and nearly gives up his back. Zalal positions himself to where he can get both hooks in, and he turns Shore around and starts hunting for a cranking submission. The neck crank does not get a tap, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Zalal
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Zalal
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Zalal

Round 2

The two touch gloves, and Zalal opens up with a few jabs. Shore walks into a jab and a right hand, and Zalal’s counters are quicker and he is evasive enough to block the strikes from coming. As Shore ducks down, “The Moroccan Devil” fires off a devilishly powerful knee up the middle that knocks Shore to his seat. Zalal leaps on top into half guard, and he establishes an arm-triangle choke. Zalal locks down the arm-triangle and does not even need to move to the side, instead pressing his full body weight down while in mount to complete it. Shore hangs on tight, but he has to tap out before getting rendered unconscious. Boutin gets between them, and Zalal has just notched arguably the largest win in his career while breaking a tough stretch of decisions tonight. That marks three wins in 2024 for the Factory X fighter, all by submission.

The Official Result

Youssef Zalal def. Jack Shore R2 0:59 via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke)

Victor Henry (135) vs. Charles Jourdain (135)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Jourdain (-125), Henry (+105)

Round 1

Meeting in the middle after plenty of time in different divisions, ex-featherweight Jourdain (15-8-1, 6-7-1 UFC) shifts gears down to 135 pounds in hopes of keeping that explosiveness. He greets former flyweight Henry (24-6, 1 NC, 3-1, 1 NC UFC) at bantamweight, with the two drawing oversight from referee Black Grice. Speed will be the name of the game in this one, and they intend on showing it off just as soon as they complete their expected glove touch. Jourdain slowly plods forward, hand-fighting Henry’s probing jabs. Henry lands a pair of low kicks as Grice issues a warning for outstretched fingers. Jourdain whips a kick up high that is barely blocked, and Henry gets busy with low and body kicks. Henry secures a body kick that splits the guard, and he absorbs a clean low kick that makes him recoil his limb. Jourdain leaps in the air with a knee, and Henry swats it away. The two trade low kicks, and Jourdain prods out a front kick that knocks Henry back a step. A Jourdain jab is met with a leg kick, and Henry walks his foe down and connects with a left hook. Jourdain looses another quick head kick, and he races forward and puts as right hand on the jaw of “La Mangosta.” Henry keeps striding forward, but Jourdain is pecking at him with low kicks and longer punches. Henry attacks the body and lead leg with kicks, and Jourdain comes out firing with a pair of looping hooks. Henry gets off a body kick, and Jourdain trips Henry up and dumps him to the floor. The well-schooled Henry does not show any concern when Jourdain grips hold of a guillotine choke, and he escapes and resets. Henry walks him down and trips him out, putting Jourdain on his back thanks to sheer pressure. Jourdain posts off an arm to sit up, and Henry slickly shuts him down. Jourdain still explodes to his feet despite Henry’s wishes, and he trips Henry to a knee but does not complete it. Jourdain stands, wraps up a guillotine, and releases it to nails Henry with a flush elbow on the forehead. Henry blinks it out and loads up on a pair of right hands, and he gets countered and clips. Jourdain’s power shakes Henry up briefly, but Henry keeps marching onward throwing punches. Jourdain uses a sharp front kick and a head kick to slow Henry, and he tries to time a jump knee but Henry is wise to it and waits to press forward into a clinch. As Jourdain looks to frame off of Henry’s face, Henry trips his legs out. Henry no-sells a guillotine choke until the bell sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Jourdain
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Jourdain
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Jourdain

Round 2

The two touch gloves before getting going, and Henry is quick to assert heavy pressure. Jourdain is lighter on his feet, swinging harder and landing cleaner. Jourdain clips Henry, forcing Henry to close in on him and trying to clinch. Jourdain shucks him off and rips an uppercut up the middle, and he chews up Henry’s lead leg and strafes to the side. Henry gives chase, pushing out a front kick and a body kick, and he gets caught with an uppercut moving forward. Henry keeps his guard high, allowing Jourdain’s offense to throw him off-balance. Henry wrangles Jourdain to the floor, and he wraps up his opponent with a body lock while fishing for a rear-naked choke. Henry rolls when Jourdain scrambles, and he hunts for a choke any time he can spot an opening. Jourdain defends well and keeps turning, eventually settling to lean his side against the cage. Henry is warned for an elbow to the spine, and he lets Jourdain turn over so he can slip an arm on the side of the chin. Henry moves into top position, but he is dragged back to the guard of “La Mangosta.” Jourdain snatches up a guillotine choke on his back, and Henry pays it no mind as it is not locked up. The Canadian hacks with elbows off his back, and he sits up and nearly works his way up. Henry stifles a guillotine choke without issue by remaining calm, and Jourdain uses the grip to work to his feet. The choke is still wrapped around Henry’s neck, and Jourdain jumps guard to set up and lock down the guillotine. This time, it is exceptionally tight, and Henry does not have a way out. With no more options, Henry frantically taps out, surrendering for the first time in his lengthy career. Jourdain sends a message to his new division with his stoppage win, while also showing off his new, impressive back tattoo.

The Official Result

Charles Jourdain def. Victor Henry R2 3:43 via Submission (Guillotine Choke)

Pedro Munhoz (135) vs. Aiemann Zahabi (135.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zahabi (-115), Munhoz (-105)

Round 1

Posting one win in each of the last four years, Tristar Gym’s Zahabi (11-2, 5-2 UFC) has slowly but surely figured things out and climbed the bantamweight ladder. He earns a top-15 adversary in Munhoz (20-9, 2 NC; 10-9, 2 NC UFC), who on the wrong end of his 30s plans on showing there are still levels to this game. Referee Jerin Valel will officiate the preliminary headliner, one that commences as the sportsmen clap hands. Munhoz awkwardly shifts his way forward, throwing Zahabi off with his unusual hopping non-rhythm. Zahabi cannot get a time on him, and he resorts to backing off and lifting his leg up preemptively expecting leg kicks to fly. No strike is thrown for the first 50 seconds until Munhoz says hello with a guard-piercing jab. Munhoz walks Zahabi down and jabs him in the face again, and his front kick does the same to the body. Zahabi lumbers forward with two looping hooks, and a third bounces off the guard. Zahabi pounds the body with a kick, and Munhoz jabs him back to the fence. Zahabi’s big swings are parried or met with jabs, as Munhoz throws straight strikes while keeping his guard up. Zahabi whips another kick to the liver, and he scoops a left hand over the top. Munhoz stays right in Zahabi’s face, reddening him with jabs and slipping counters. Zahabi gets hold of a right hook that Munhoz cannot dodge, but it does not irritate the Brazilian in the slightest. Munhoz sneaks a high kick up, and when he bends over to evade the counters, he ducks into a knee. Zahabi stabs his toes to the liver, and Munhoz’ jab-heavy approach does not falter. Munhoz follows a jab with a left hook, and he swats away a lunging Zahabi and his combo. Zahabi looks for another knee as Munhoz bends, but he does not set it up and instead tags Munhoz in the face with a pair of flush punches. Munhoz jabs and lands a right, and Zahabi works the body and head in response. Zahabi scores a left hook on an advancing Munhoz, and Munhoz throws a low kick and stuffs a takedown shot. Munhoz jabs and sets up a straight right hand and a sharp kick to the ribs. Zahabi keeps his guard up to defend an elbow, and he evades a looping right hand by a matter of inches. Munhoz jabs his way into range, and he is backed off by a pair of jabs from the Canadian. Zahabi gets a high kick up, and they trade hands until the time hits 5:00.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Munhoz
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Munhoz
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Munhoz

Round 2

Munhoz offers a glove touch that is accepted, and he follows it with a few jabs. Munhoz uses the jab to smack Zahabi in the face with a right hand, and Zahabi fires back with a head kick followed by a few punches. Munhoz walks into a knee as he is pressing the action fearlessly, and he does not let Zahabi land without firing back relentlessly. Munhoz opens up with five punches that largely bounce off the guard, and Zahabi works the body with a kick. Zahabi slings an elbow as Munhoz advances, and Munhoz’ jabs are now more frequently being followed with power punches. Munhoz eats a right hand and tries to give one back, and Zahab kicks him in the side again. Munhoz dips and strikes, and he absorbs an uppercut without concern. Munhoz scores a solid right hand that sends Zahabi staggering to the right for a second, but the Canadian steels himself and strikes Munhoz repeatedly with hard jabs. Munhoz is right there in his grill hitting him back, and these two are unloading on one another. Zahabi times a break with a heavy body kick, and the punch salvos of three or more fly from both sides. Zahabi eats a right hand so he can sit down on a clean right counter, and Munhoz smiles and walks him down to slug him back. Munhoz ducks to shoot for a takedown, swelling growing under his left eye, and he cannot ground the Tristar-trained competitor. Munhoz lands a low kick and is jabbed back, but he opens up with right hand into a takedown. Zahabi smoothly sprawls and fights behind his jab, dealing well with Munhoz’ constant pressure. Munhoz slams another leg kick home, opening up a few punches up top. Zahabi strafes to the side when Munhoz swarms him, and he jabs twice and takes a thudding right hand on the temple. Zahabi lands a left and a hooking right, and he stops a double-leg entry without issue and knees “The Young Punisher” in the gut. Zahabi sets up a few punches after the knee, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi

Round 3

Munhoz comes out firing in the last round, with both rounds somewhat close and potentially everything up for grabs in the last five-minute stanza. Munhoz plods forward throwing big hands, and Zahabi’s defense protects from most of it. Munhoz jabs to the body with a foot and up high with a fist, and he parries a counter to put two fists on the dome of his foe. Munhoz rolls with a punch, walks into a right hand and responds with a pair of punches. Zahabi gets a knee up the middle, and Munhoz sends him wobbling back with a couple heavy blows. The fighters continue to trade without fear, and Munhoz has the volume advantage but gets a cut opened up on the right side of his right eye. Zahabi’s jabs target that spot with impunity, and Munhoz completely ignores it to load up on volume punches. Zahabi’s jab is money, forcing Munhoz to wipe his eye. Zahabi shoots for a takedown, and Munhoz stuffs it and splits the guard with a trio of strikes. Zahabi dips to score a right and snaps the head back with a jab, but “The Young Punisher” is right in front of him putting hands on him. They jab at the same time, and Munhoz has three fists flying immediately after launching it. Zahabi’s guard stops the Brazilian from most of his strike getting through, and he stops a takedown with ease. Munhoz charges recklessly with lunging punches, and the counters from Zahabi further chew up Munhoz’ face. Munhoz gets caught with a right hand and hits his seat, and he jumps back up to put hands on jaw. Munhoz scores two right hands over the top, and he motions for Zahabi to swang and bang with him. There is a failed takedown as they trade leather, and Valel gets between them as time expires but they just want to hug it out.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi (29-28 Zahabi)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi (29-28 Zahabi)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Zahabi (29-28 Zahabi)

The Official Result

Aiemann Zahabi def. Pedro Munhoz via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Trevin Giles (170) vs. Mike Malott (170.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Malott (-250), Giles (+205)

Round 1

As it tends to do lately, the UFC has plugged in a fight promising violence in the opener of its main card. Malott (10-2-1, 3-1 UFC) will have the crowd behind him when he battles Houston native Giles (16-6, 7-6 UFC). The former has seen all 10 of his wins end inside the distance, while all of Giles’ pro defeats have come via stoppage. Anything can and often does happen in MMA, so even with Malott one of the largest betting favorites tonight, all that matters is the activity when the cage door closes. When it does, referee Andy Social is installed as the Octagon commander, and he starts the clock while the competitors do not touch gloves. Malott tries to strike first, but his front kick misses the mark. Once more, the Canadians in the building show their lack of support for Justin Trudeau, and the fighters ignore the chants. They measure one another from afar, pitching single strikes at one another and bouncing them off one another’s guard. The enthusiasm of the crowd shifts to “Let’s go Mike,” who promptly kicks Giles upside the head. Giles keeps his jab out to not let Malott get to him, and he chops at the low calf a few times. Malott winds a right hand over the top, and Giles checks a low kick. Giles slams his foot on the front leg of his opponent, and every impact sounds more bone-on-bone than slapping off skin. Malott digs deep with a hard low kick, and the jabs from Giles have reddened up the Canadian’s nose. Malott sprints forward, and when countered, blood trickles out of a cut on the bridge of his nose. Giles targets the new cut with jabs, and Malott chambers and fires three kicks that are all guarded. Giles paws out with a low kick and rifles off a right hand that brushes past his foe’s hair. Giles keeps his guard up to defend head kicks that fly fairly frequently, and Malott mixes things up with a hard calf kick. Giles parries a front kick and absorbs another heavy low kick, and he tries to push out a jab and is countered with a combination of punches. Giles snaps out a mean jab, and he tosses away a high kick and blocks a spinning back kick. The Texan turns his shin towards a calf kick, and he ducks a few looping punches and breathes a sigh of relief. Giles comes up hitting air with an overhand right, and he blocks a head kick right before the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Giles
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Giles
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Giles

Round 2

Malott wants to get right down to business to start the second round, and Giles meets him in the middle with powerful punches. Giles defends a head kick and takes a right hand and a low kick, and he looks for a clubbing right hand over the top that glances off the shoulder. Giles kicks the front leg, and Malott responds with a front kick. When seeing it land, Malott targets the same spot on the abdomen with the ball of his foot, drawing a reaction out of an energized Giles. The Texan connects with a jab and two follow-up punches, and Malott keeps him honest by slinging head kicks at him. Giles wings two huge punches, and a third whooshes past the Canuck. Malott jabs the body with a front kick from either let, and he looses a heavy body kick that Giles catches and sets down. Giles slides back from a high kick, and he lunges in and gets countered with a short right hand. Giles plods ever forward, staying light on his feet to protect himself from kicks, and still keeps a solid base to shut down a takedown effort. Malott kicks the front leg twice, and he chambers and fires a third from the other side. Giles prods out a heavy jab, and he follows one with a wide overhand right. Malott uses front kick after front kick to keep Giles from reaching him with his big punches, but this results in them taking turns. Malott splits the guard with a big right hand, and Giles blinks it out and crouches down to try to defend a low kick. Malott has a head kick zoom past his foe, and Giles looks for a right hand over the top but absorbs a clean spinning back kick to the ribcage. “The Problem” gives Malott a problem to think about in the form of a huge right hand, and Malott welcomes it and slings back. Malott kicks his foe in the ribs, and he tries to spin with it and then turn through with a head kick, but Giles watches them all whiz by his face without concern. The round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Malott
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Giles
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Malott

Round 3

A Giles jab starts the round, but Malott is quick to hop on his bike and peck away with kicks to all targets. A front kick narrowly misses the jaw, and Giles tries to make him pay with a booming right hand. Malott rolls with it and sticks out a jab, and he bounces up and down and is slapped in the face with a surprise question-mark kick. Malott sinks two leg kicks low, and Giles has to pull his leg back and thinks about changing stances. Malott kicks him in the head, with the impact of the blow knocking him back a step despite it colliding with his glove. Malott drives a leg kick to the calf, and Giles pushes forward swinging hammers but has his hands batted away. Malott uses a jab to open up a front kick from either foot, and he overswings and is lucky to not get caught with a looping strike. Malott brings his shin up quickly, but it is his short left hand when Giles bares down on him that lands more effectively. Giles whiffs, dodges a spin kick and takes a kick on the ribs. Malott’s front kick keeps him at a safe range, and he checks a kick while switching stances. Giles hits nothing but air with huge right hands, and Malott picks his shots carefully and does not expose himself for much. A body kick from the Canadian is caught, and Giles whips a right hand at him but it just grazes off the cheek. Malott drops his hands and looses a head kick that ricochets off the raised guard of his opponent, and he is met with a jab to the body on the way out. Malott freezes up his opponent with his feints and fakes, and he shuts down a body lock attempt and thumps Giles with a calf kick. A head kick goes wide from “Proper Mike,” who properly ends the middling fight with a sharp jab.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Malott (29-28 Malott)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Malott (29-28 Giles)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Malott (29-28 Malott)

The Official Result

Mike Malott def. Trevin Giles via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Marc-Andre Barriault (185) vs. Dustin Stoltzfus (185.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Barriault (-205), Stoltzfus (+170)

Round 1

With their backs against the wall, this middleweight contest might see the losing party no longer on the roster come Monday. Barriault (16-8, 1 NC; 5-7, 1 NC UFC) would like nothing more than to survive, while breaking a losing streak. He will have to prevail at the expense of Pennsylvania-based grappler Stoltzfus (15-6, 2-5 UFC), who has seen four of his five UFC losses come by stoppage. Referee Marc Goddard draws the charge for this next contest, one that kicks off with the fighters not wanting to touch gloves. Barriault introduces himself with a winging right hand, and he gets kicked off his feet and hits the deck. Stoltzfus dives after him, latching on with a guillotine choke that is more for control than actually depriving his opponent of blood and oxygen. Stoltzfus presses his weight down while in half guard, and he lets go of the choke to claim top position. Stoltzfus smothers without offering much offense, sneaking in a single elbow and generally preferring position over submission or attack. This allows Barriault to scoot to the wall, unconcerned about strikes coming at him, so Stoltzfus surprises him with a brabo choke. Stoltzfus wraps up the choke as Barriault leans to his side, and Barriault snaps his head out of danger as his head turns a bright shade of red. Stoltzfus lowers himself down while controlling in half guard, and he slithers his way to full mount and lashes out with two elbows before Barriault bucks. The Canadian explodes back to his feet, and what results is an absolutely incredible and devastating slugfest. Barriault unloads with a vicious salvo of punches, and Stoltzfus stands directly in front of him without a care in the world to smash him back. Stoltzfus strings four punches together, and a fifth comes in the form of a bomb of a right hand that detonates on the chin of “Power Bar.” Barriault collapses to his back in a heap, his lights shut out, and Goddard has to get between them to save him from any further damage. The crowd is instantly silenced, as one of their favorites got iced while trying to slug it out. This win could not come at a more important time for the Pennsylvanian by way of Germany, who very well might have preserved his place in the UFC.

The Official Result

Dustin Stoltzfus def. Marc-Andre Barriault R1 4:28 via KO (Punches)

Ariane Lipski (125) vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius (125)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Jasudavicius (-230), Lipski (+190)

Round 1

The lineup shifted today, bumping this prelim up to the main card. It is a ranked flyweight tilt, as .500 UFC fighter Lipski (17-9, 6-6 UFC) tries to move to the next level. She will be meeting Niagara Top Team-trained Jasudavicius (11-3, 5-2 UFC) in the cage, in what could provide some thrilling grappling exchanges before it is said and done. Referee Luke Boutin will keep things on the up-and-up, and he says “fight” as the ladies rush towards one another. They do not engage with much of note early, instead slowly ramping things up as they find their respective ranges. One throws, the other responds, and the first counters back. As Lipski—who also goes by da Silva, but remains as Lipski on Fight Finder due to how she bills herself publicly on social media platforms—gets more comfortable, she opens up with her hands, chaining several punches together en masse. Jasudavicius defends well enough, looking for a long jab while faking takedown efforts. Lipski waits often to find ways in, aiming strikes when finding the availability but not offering much pressure. Jasudavicius walks forward, tossing out a high kick and getting met with a right hand over the top. Jasudavicius fakes low to kick high, and Lipski does not bite. Lipski catches Jasudavicius on the chin with a series of punches, and Jasudavicius replies with volume but is taking the cleaner strikes. Lipski hand-fights to open up one-twos, and one such one-two is followed with a powerful head kick. Jasudavicius catches the kick and tackles the Brazilian to the mat, who is quick to roll for a kneebar. Jasudavicius is aware of the leglock setup and sits down to not open herself up to danger, and she drops down ground-and-pound until the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Lipski
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Jasudavicius
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Lipski

Round 2

Lipski opens up with her punches as soon as she marches out of her corner, and Jasudavicius counters back but is not hitting nearly as hard. Lipski takes a jab to put three punches on the chin, and Jasudavicius flashes out another jab on the forehead. Jasudavicius calmly works her jab, but the Brazilian is more active and aggressive, while chaining multiple punches together. Lipski nails her opponent with a solid right hand, and Jasudavicius shoots low for a single and easily puts “The Queen” on the ground. Jasudavicius succeeds in rolling Lipski to her back, where she stifles a leglock setup to maintain north-south position. Lipski turns over and nearly surrenders her back, only for Jasudavicius to climb over to the other side to open up with right hands. Jasudavicius sets up a crucifix on one side, holding Lipski’s left arm down to belt her foe in the face. Jasudavicius advances to three-quarter mount, riding while landing short but meaningful punches. Jasudavicius smothers with top control and ground-and-pound, thwarting Lipski’s escape attempts while simultaneously working to assume the mount position. Jasudavicius works Lipski over with short punches before getting to mount for a second, and she rains down elbows as she moves to side control. Lipski turns over, takes a few elbows on the back of the head, and Boutin is quick to warn the Canadian for illegal lands. Jasudavicius keeps dropping down short punches, striking the back of the head every so often and forcing Lipski to her back as she opens up with attacks. Jasudavicius pours it on with an onslaught of elbows and fists, hitting “The Queen” with everything she has until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Jasudavicius
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-8 Jasudavicius
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-8 Jasudavicius

Round 3

It takes mere seconds for the two to engage in the last round, with Lipski leading the dance throwing violent hands. Jasudavicius shoots for a takedown, and she is stuffed and eats a right hand to make her pay for the attempt. Lipski walks her down and punches hard, opening her up for a takedown. When Jasudavicius’ first effort fails, the second from another angle succeeds in putting the Brazilian on the ground. Jasudavicius holds her knee on Lipski’s right hard to give her an avenue to belt Lipski in the face with unblocked punches, and she remains busy any times he can find a moment to hit her opponent. As Lipski turns over, Jasudavicius wraps up a brabo choke, and the submission is tight as a drum in an instant. Lipski rolls to her side, but the sub is not going anywhere and choking the life out of her. Before long, Lipski has to surrender before going out, and Jasudavicius releases the grip as soon as Lipski taps out. The crowd erupts in favor of their home country victor, who jumps to the top of the cage to drink in their love and affection.

The Official Result

Jasmine Jasudavicius def. Ariane Lipski R3 2:28 via Submission (Brabo Choke)

Caio Machado (205) vs. Brendson Ribeiro (205)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Machado (-162), Ribeiro (+136)

Round 1

What could have been a heavyweight slobberknocker a few years ago is now one in the light heavyweight division, as Machado (8-3-1, 0-2 UFC) dropped in weight almost 50 pounds to get to 205 pounds without issue. He will throw down with “The Gorilla” Ribeiro (15-7, 1 NC; 0-2 UFC), who celebrates all 15 of his wins by finish. Referee Jerin Valel may be needed while the judges might be able to take this one off, as backs are against the wall on either side. An 0-3 start could mean removal from the roster, so they will likely give this all they have. There is no glove touch before the sluggers prepare to swing for the moon. Machado introduces himself with a few punches and a head kick, and he backs away from a counter to work on the lead leg of his opponent. They trade leg kicks one after the other, and Machado dances out of the way of a head kick. Ribeiro chambers and fires a home run right hand, and Machado’s elusiveness keeps him safe from danger again. Ribeiro kicks him in the ribs, and he does a second time as they try to figure out how to reach one another. Machado has two left hands dodged, and his head kick to follow is narrowly blocked in time. Ribeiro digs another kick to the side, and he winds up with power punches that hit air. Machado stomps on his foe’s knee a few times, hand-fighting his way in with a left hand and a high kick. Ribeiro shakes his head and gives his opponent one back to think about. Ribeiro kicks low and slides away from a power left hand and a head kick. Machado chops at the front leg while being light on his feet to make Ribeiro swing at air and wear himself out. Machado misses with a head kick, and he tries to stay far on the outside so as to not leave his chin on the gunnery range. They both toss out high kicks that do not land cleanly, and Ribeiro rushes forward to jack the jaw of his adversary with two right hands. Machado escapes out the side before absorbing more, and he pokes the front leg with a kick to slow some of the movement. They kick at the same time, and Ribeiro’s bangs into Machado’s cup. Valel calls time and has the replay official check on the blow, which is quite direct. After 30 seconds of recovery time, Machado is good to go. Ribeiro slams a kick to the side, and he keeps his hands up to defend an expected high kick. Ribeiro flicks out a jab and comes up short with a follow-up right hand, and he kicks “Bigfoot” on the way in to stop him from more offense.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ribeiro
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Ribeiro
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ribeiro

Round 2

The fighters meet in the middle, with Machado claiming the center of the Octagon as they pitch kicks at one another. Machado comes up short with a booming left hand and a head kick, but his lunging left to the body does connect. Machado tries to set up a head kick that bounces off the guard, and Ribeiro puts the ball of his foot on Machado’s solar plexus. Machado throws out a body kick but is countered up top, and he shakes it off and tosses out a pair of kicks that are inaccurate. Machado reaches with punches, but Ribeiro sees them coming and parries them or otherwise guards against them. Machado uses front kicks to stop Ribeiro from bearing down on him, and Ribeiro races after him but is not cutting him off. This allows Machado to slide out of danger, with Machado piercing the guard ever so often with a long single punch. Ribeiro bats one such punch aside to kick his man in the ribs, and single strikes are largely all the fighters aim at one another. Ribeiro’s head kick blazes past his opponent, and he sits down with a few punches but ends up eating a solid right and taking the impact of a head kick on his forearms. Machado times a ducking Ribeiro with a left hand to the body, and he lets two more go that rebound off the sides of Ribeiro’s head. Machado stands straight up for a second too long, allowing Ribeiro to plant a right hand on his chin and knock him back a foot. Ribeiro cannot follow up on it, as Machado is in practically another area code as he strafes away to safe range. Machado keeps evading the big kicks and punches coming his way, and the accuracy numbers are in the tank for both of these hitters. They bite down on their mouthpiece and sling punches, but somehow, they miss one another almost completely in their labored flurries. The slow round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ribeiro
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Machado
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Machado

Round 3

The light heavyweights have five more minutes to put a stamp on things, and Machado tries early by timing a head kick as Ribeiro ducks into it. Machado doubles up on it when seeing it came close to getting through, but he settles for working on Ribeiro’s forearm. Machado splits the guard with a left hand, and he chops at the front leg while coming forward. Machado lands with a left to the head and one to the body while he flails strikes, and Ribeiro walks him down and manages to clip him with a right hand. Ribeiro punches his way into range, and they clash heads, resulting in Ribeiro wobbling back awkwardly. Machado plods forward, looking for looping strikes, but they are all too slow and telegraphed to get through. When Ribeiro kicks him high, Machado grabs the limb and tosses Ribeiro down. Ribeiro climbs back up without issue, and he loads up with nothing but power and swings his way into the wall. Winging, inaccurate punches continue flying from both fighters, who cannot seem to hit the broadside of a barn. Ribeiro sneaks up a surprise head kick, and Machado tanks it and closes in to attempt a clinch. Ribeiro shrugs it off and returns to his power hooks that miss one after the other. Ribeiro tags Machado winding up on something reckless, and Machado wears it well and kicks his foe in the shoulder. Ribeiro absorbs a jab so he can blast Machado in the face with a right hand that would knock down a building. Somehow Machado not only survives, but actually fights back to force an immediate brawl. Machado scores on Ribeiro, and they swing for the bleachers and still cannot hit one another cleanly very often. The head movement and distance management results in awkward exchanges with low land percentages. Ribeiro scores a clean body shot and is kicked on the same spot, and Machado runs at him jumping with a knee. Ribeiro is well out of the way as he resets and strikes, and he ducks a few punches to spin with a back fist. Machado does the same, hitting him a bit cleaner. Machado wings with anything he can throw, and Ribeiro keeps himself safe, tucks and turns to bounce an elbow off the side of the head. The horn sounds, and this not great light heavyweight mess comes to a merciful conclusion.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Machado (29-28 Ribeiro)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Machado (29-28 Machado)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Machado (29-28 Machado)

The Official Result

Brendson Ribeiro def. Caio Machado via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Jhonata Diniz (257) vs. Derrick Lewis (266)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Diniz (-170), Lewis (+142)

Round 1

The match was canceled on Saturday morning due to medical issue suffered by Lewis. The news was first reported by the promotion.

Erin Blanchfield (125.5) vs. Rose Namajunas (125)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Blanchfield (-125), Namajunas (+105)

Round 1

Despite this event being a Fight Night with no championships on the line, UFC Fight Night 246 has two five-round fights on the slate. The first comes in a potential title eliminator between powerful youngster Blanchfield (12-2, 6-1 UFC) and former two-time strawweight queen Namajunas (13-6, 11-5 UFC). The fighters were clear that they would not be skipping the line past Manon Fiorot, who appears to be the rightful challenger to Valentina Shevchenko’s throne. The high-stakes 125-pound affair will draw officiating from referee Blake Grice, who knows there is ample respect between the women with no funny business afoot. The two have no interest in touching gloves, with Namajunas asserting control of the center of the cage while Blanchfield is happy to fight from the distant outer edge. Namajunas flicks out several jabs, alternating her targets to the head and body, while Blanchfield tries and fails to respond. Namajunas chops at the front leg, blocks a high kick and keeps behind her sharp jab. Namajunas lands a punch to the chest as she absorbs a body kick, and she has a glancing left hook skim the forehead of her opponent. Blanchfield scores a low kick as she remains defensively focused, and she pitches a high kick only to be met with a chopping low kick as soon as she plants her limb. Namajunas slips and rips with a left hand, with head movement and footwork on full display. Namajunas times another leg kick after Blanchfield’s head kick misses, and she eats a one-two but takes a short combination back in response. Blanchfield sinks in a low kick and has a high kick blocked, and she blitzes to no success. Namajunas does not fall into a trap of a right hand, seeing it coming right before walking into it. Namajunas scores a trio of punches and gets out, letting Blanchfield counter the air around her. Namajunas has her guard up to defend another high kick, and she digs another left hand to the chest. Blanchfield’s nose turns red from absorbing jabs, and she drives a knee up the middle after a combination. Namajunas lands cleaner with an outside left hook, protecting her chin from a quick kick to rifle off a right hand. Namajunas scores a hard low kick, and Blanchfield walks her down throwing hands. Namajunas is slicker and uses her jab to work through the rest of the round.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas

Round 2

Namajunas immediately shifts to the center of the Octagon to begin the second stanza, and again Blanchfield is far away from danger. Namajunas reaches her with long jabs, allowing Blanchfield to kick past her to scoop a left hand under her guard. They start flurrying, with Blanchfield landing cleaner when forcing Namajunas to strike with her. Namajunas swings back at her, landing as well, but she absorbs more in this exchange than most others in the past. Namajunas has a left hand bounce off the temple, and Blanchfield takes an awkward step to recover. Namajunas sits down on a right hand, allowing Blanchfield to fly past her with swinging strikes. Blanchfield does not like what she eats in a particular combo, rushing towards the former champ and tying her up while changing levels. Namajunas hits a picture-perfect throw to dump Blanchfield to her back, and Blanchfield is quick to return but it is a message sent and delivered with pain. Namajunas calmly measures her opponent, waiting for Blanchfield to swing more wildly so she can reply with accurate strings of punches. “Thug Rose” watches a head kick whiz past her, sitting down on two clean punches to drive Blanchfield back. Blanchfield uses a jab to set a few strikes up, landing a solid right hand, only to be met with Namajunas’ counterattack. Blanchfield walks into a big right hand and does not bat an eye, instead walking down the former champ and hurling a body kick at her. Blanchfield stands firm to elicit a brawl, and Namajunas is smart to it this time and picks her shots while dodging the majority of the ones coming her way. Namajunas gets off a left and dips away from the flurry, and she catches Blanchfield coming in and stifles a takedown by smashing her in the chin with a right hand. Blanchfield flurries her way into a takedown, and Namajunas counters her once, protects her single and breaks out with a left hand. The round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas

Round 3

Like the first two rounds, Namajunas shifts directly to the center of the Monster logo on the floor, where she allows Blanchfield to come in on her so she can potshot her. Namajunas sits down on a fierce right hand, and Blanchfield has to shake off the cobwebs and eats a second big right up top. Blanchfield kicks low and punches high, and when she tries to tie the former champ up, “Thug Rose” is not out only of the way but punching her in the face for her effort. Namajunas raises up a knee to the liver, and she shoots for a single. Blanchfield stops the attempt and ties Namajunas up, flirting with a guillotine but instead settling to push Namajunas against the fencing in hopes of securing a takedown. Blanchfield throws Namajunas to her back, fights off a sweep attempt and lands in half guard. Namajunas clasps her hands around the back of Blanchfield’s neck to prevent her from posturing up and raining down offense. Blanchfield’s hand rarely get through when she does try to attack, and all she racks up is control time. Grice watches on as the crowd is not thrilled by the grappling stalemate, and Blanchfield tries to ratchet things up with a few more right hands. Namajunas protects her mug from anything significant landing on her, and Grice asks for more activity. This forces Blanchfield to posture up, and Namajunas hand-fights to shut down the offense. Blanchfield lands two punches from on top, is kicked off, and the horn blares.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Blanchfield
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Blanchfield

Round 4

The two have reached the championship rounds in a non-title, non-headlining match. Blanchfield has a pep in her step, throwing heavy strikes but eating equally powerful responses. Blanchfield kicks her opponent in the side and takes a right hand on the jaw, and Namajunas opens up with a short flurry to follow. Blanchfield’s head kick gets blocked, and Namajunas slips a few strikes to go to the body. Blanchfield eats a left hand when shooting for a takedown, stopping the attempt in its tracks. Namajunas fakes a kick to go up top with a left hand, and Blanchfield succeeds in kicking the former champ in the side again. Namajunas loads up on power strikes, with a right hand stunning Blanchfield for a split second. Namajunas blocks a head kick to swipe out with a left hook, and Blanchfield gathers herself and strings a few punches together. The swinging women end up clashing together, where they clinch and Blanchfield drives Namajunas to the wall. Blanchfield goes low for a single, but that fails. Grice asks for Blanchfield to do something with the position, and Namajunas takes him out of the equation by escaping. Namajunas walks Blanchfield down and slugs her in the face with a few fiery fists, and she takes a punch or two to give some back. Blanchfield crashes forward in blitzes, kiaiing and getting countered by a seemingly slowing Namajunas. Namajunas wings a left hand over the top, and she splits the guard with a few punches and stifles a seemingly solid takedown attempt before breaking out of the clinch. Namajunas strings a few punches together on the inside before sliding back, and Blanchfield fires back and dings the former champ on the noggin. They keep trading until the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Namajunas

Round 5

Blanchfield races out of her corner loaded for bear. Namajunas welcomes this, and the two begin slugging. Namajunas gets kicked in the head during a ferocious exchange, and she shoots for a takedown. Blanchfield keeps her balance by posting off an arm, and they both return standing and get back to throwing hands. Namajunas lands first and last in a flurry, driving a knee up the middle and scoring a few punches up top. Blanchfield crashes through the offense to grip hold of the ex-champ, scooping her in the air and depositing her to the canvas. Blanchfield assumes half guard and works through to side control, where she tries to wrap up Namajunas’ right arm in a crucifix position. Blanchfield drops down punches until she loops her foe’s arm between her legs, and she jackhammers “Thug Rose” with mean elbows. Namajunas wriggles her arm out, and Blanchfield isolates the left arm of her opponent for a possible kimura or armlock. Blanchfield abandons the submission and is warned for striking the back of the head. Namajunas shakes out of it and turns to her side, ultimately rolling to her knees while Blanchfield hands on from behind. Blanchfield retains back control, but Namajunas climbs back to her feet and leans against the wall. The two jockey for position in the clinch, with Blanchfield doggedly pursuing a takedown she cannot find. The New Jersey native grinds to wrap the fight, and it is now left in the hands of the judges. It could go either way depending on how a couple rounds were scored.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Blanchfield (49-46 Namajunas)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Blanchfield (48-47 Namajunas)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Blanchfield (48-47 Namajunas)

The Official Result

Erin Blanchfield def. Rose Namajunas via Unanimous Decision (48-47, 48-47, 48-47)

Brandon Moreno (125.5) vs. Amir Albazi (125.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Moreno (-175), Albazi (+145)

Round 1

On his first losing streak since 2018, Moreno (21-8-2, 9-5-2 UFC) has fallen short twice in a row, albeit both times by razor-close split verdict. With five rounds to work and a less established foe in Albazi (17-1, 5-0 UFC) in front of him, it could be just what the doctor ordered for “The Assassin Baby.” On the other hand, a victory for the Iraqi fighter would almost certainly merit a shot at flyweight gold. Referee Marc Goddard knows just how big this fight could be, and how fast it almost certainly will play out, so he dons his proverbial hard hat while ushering the gladiators to the center of the cage. With ample respect for one another, the 125-pound contenders double bump fists. It’s on with the show. Moreno prods out several jabs before lunging for one, and Albazi gives him one back almost immediately as if it were instinctual. Moreno loops a left around the guard, and he has his inside leg kick when not backing off. Three punches from the Mexican come up short, and they proceed to measure one another with largely inaccurate strikes. Albazi scores a single leg kick, and he gets countered with a left over the top when reaching out with his right hand. They land strikes at the same time, and Albazi sits down on a right hand that glances off the dome. Moreno flashes out a jab and follows with a body kick, and he dips to score a big right hand over the top. Albazi splits the guard with front kick, and his nose is reddened up by the left hook counter. Albazi slams a leg kick home, forcing Moreno to take an award step to reset, and it is Moreno who strikes first when gathering his thoughts. Two heavy punches fly from “The Assassin Baby” before Albazi can get to him, and Albazi tries a low kick but ends up spinning in a circle. Moreno zings a left hand above the guard, and he drives his foe back with a long jab. Moreno snipes Albazi with a right hand, and Albazi slips when taking a step back and pops back to his feet before he can be reached. Moreno does not pounce, instead allowing Albazi to regain his faculties completely. Two lunging punches from Moreno miss the mark, and they drive uppercuts through the middle to score on one another. Moreno strings two punches into a low kick, and one more leg kick from the man from Mexico punctuates the frame.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Moreno

Round 2

Albazi’s leg kick to open the round is checked, and it is met with two from his opponent. Moreno steps through to land a jab, and a head kick skims the top of Albazi’s melon and shakes him up. Albazi strafes to the side and away to gather himself, and Moreno bears down on him but does not change levels. Instead, Albazi breaks out of the clinch and dodges a leg kick. Moreno jabs and swats with a left hand, and he connects with two more power punches as his speed is playing a major factor thus far. Moreno tosses out three punches, and Albazi retreats, eats a left to the body and shoots in low for a takedown. Moreno hits his seat and squirms immediately to work to his feet, without allowing Albazi to control him for more than a second. Moreno slings a kick to the ribs, and he dodges an overhand right that buzzes his hair. Moreno follows two jabs with a right hand, and he drills the lead leg with a kick. Albazi jabs in response, and his leg kick misses the mark. Moreno connect with two left hands, and a swatting third bangs into Albazi’s guard. Moreno whips a right hand over the top, chaining a number of punches together, and Albazi weaves away from the worst of it but still gets caught with a left hand on the way out. Moreno lunges with a pair of jabs, and a third stumbles his opponent. Albazi tosses a low kick and then one to the side, and when he tries another body kick, Moreno swipes a left hook up top. Moreno’s jab opens up a pair of crisp punches, and he follows another few jabs into a fast combo. Moreno lets fly a right hand and a body kick, and he scores two more fists before the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Moreno

Round 3

Jabs flow from both sides as soon as the round begins, and Albazi steps in with an uppercut that shakes Moreno up. Albazi tries to capitalize on that success with a second, but Moreno has recovered and fires off a few punches that open a cut on the bridge of the Iraqi fighter’s nose. Additionally, the left hand from Moreno has drawn some serious swelling under Albazi’s right eye. Moreno blasts the body with a left hand, and the two are slipping around the cage as their footing is not 100%. This is not from immediate damage, but rather the conditions of the cage floor like the painted-on sponsor logos. Moreno gets his footing and tags Albazi with two punches, and not to be outdone, Albazi answers immediately with a right hand that knocks Moreno back a step. Moreno gets a full head of steam and connects with short but effective combinations, truncating them so that he does not expose himself to counters. Albazi zooms a right hand over the guard when Moreno celebrates his handiwork a little too long, and Moreno has to block a takedown try and smacks Albazi with a standing back fist. Albazi sits down on a few power punches, and Moreno meets him in the middle of the cage and slings back heavy leather. Moreno stabs his fist on the torso, and he chases after Albazi and dings him with a left hook on the temple. Low kicks come from both sides, and Moreno smashes Albazi in the right eye with his closed fist. Albazi protests that he was poked, but Goddard tells them to fight on. Moreno does not go wild, instead standing straight in front of his opponent and getting drilled with a surprise right hand. Moreno blinks it out and continues advancing, and Albazi shoots for a deep single. Moreno does not defend it as much as he swings his way out of it, smacking Albazi with punches until Albazi abandons ship. Moreno lets his hands go one last time until time expires.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Moreno

Round 4

Fists fly as soon as the championship round is reached, with Albazi standing firm and Moreno welcoming and embracing a brawl. This results in Moreno eating a few shots when he throws hard, but he still lands cleanly as well. The Iraqi’s chin is made of sterner stuff, when he takes the punches and a high kick on the way out. Moreno jabs and loops a left hand around the guard, and he rips a left to the body and kicks the same spot when Albazi is backpedaling. Albazi’s jab is met by a flying Moreno, who is on top of him throwing at him aggressively. Moreno jabs and swipes out a left hook, and his jab punches his way through the guard repeatedly. Albazi fakes a jump knee and is met with a jab, and Moreno holds his hands in a way to swing a standing back fist at his foe. Albazi swings hard but hits air, with Moreno dancing in and out without fear of reprisal. Albazi stabs his toes to the midsection, and he chains it into a few jabs and a one-two. Moreno pounces, and he takes a jab on the way in and turns his head to roll with it. Moreno flicks out his own jab, tripling up on it to disrupt Albazi’s attack. Albazi uses his own jab until Moreno kicks low with one leg and high with the other, forcing him to shell up and load up with a haymaker. Moreno fakes with a flying knee to close the distance, and Albazi steps in with a knee to the guts. Moreno bends and shifts his way, keeping his movement active and not following any particular pattern. Moreno flusters his foe with this movement, allow him to slide into range and pop his opponent and slip out cleanly. Albazi throws hard but misses, and Moreno lines a one-two on the jaw. The horn toots.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Moreno
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Moreno

Round 5

The flyweights fire up the crowd as they have five minutes to go, and Albazi knows he is down on the scorecards and treats things as such. Albazi marches Moreno down, but Moreno is faster and hitting him harder. Moreno catches Albazi flush, stops a takedown and blasts him in the face with a left hand. Albazi pushes off as he backpedals, and his finger jams deep into the former champ’s eye socket. Moreno answers Goddard with jokes, ultimately telling the veteran referee that he is good to go. After 30 seconds to clear his vision, the fighters resume with four minutes left on the clock. Moreno chains a combination of punches into a head kick, and Albazi’s response is inaccurate and glancing at best. Moreno stops another takedown and drops him to their knees, and he busts Albazi in the chops with a big left and a right. Albazi wobbles his way to the fence, struggling to keep his balance, and Moreno charges at him hoping to finish the job with a mighty flurry. Albazi ricochets off the wall and grits it out, blood flowing from a cut on his right eye. Albazi tries to slow things down with a clinch after taking some heavy shots, and Moreno pushes him off with a knee. Moreno loops out a left hook, connects with a right and then one more left as Albazi is struggling to see out of his right eye due to swelling and blood flow. A one-two from Albazi bounces harmlessly off the guard, and Moreno’s hands are up until he pitches a head kick that goes wide. Albazi eats a left to the liver on the way out, with Moreno putting the screws to his opponent with volume and firepower. Albazi stabs out a front kick, and he is met with a piston-like jab. Moreno sprints forward, elbowing Albazi on the side of the head and staggering him. Moreno pours it on with an overhand right, and Albazi is tough as nails but absorbing serious punishment. Moreno loops two punches around the guard, and with 30 seconds to spare, Albazi points to the ground and tells them it’s time to brawl. Moreno shrugs at him and lets his hands fly. Moreno nails his opponent with a few looping shots, blocks a head kick and leaps forward with a rolling thunder that miraculously connects. Albazi is hanging on tight, throwing back when he can, but Moreno is much too much for him. As Moreno connects a few more times, the bloody, one-sided battle comes to a thrilling conclusion. With the victor in no doubt—barring one of the worst scorecards in the history of the sport—the only question is what to do next with the former champion. With losses to the few names above him in the rankings, he may have to do a lot to work his way up to another title fight—and this goes a long way, his pillar-to-post beating of the streaking Albazi. Despite a big win, Moreno has no specific name in mind, and instead wants to remind the division he is still a major player. Other than that, Moreno plans on enjoying his time in Canada, which he says will involve some feasting. When the former champ competes again, we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Moreno (50-45 Moreno)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Moreno (50-45 Moreno)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Moreno (50-45 Moreno)

The Official Result

Brandon Moreno def. Amir Albazi via Unanimous Decision (49-46, 50-45, 50-45)