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411’s UFC 272 Report: Covington beats Masvidal
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MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)
#1 Colby Covington (170.5 lbs. ) vs. #6 Jorge Masvidal (170.5 lbs.)
Rafael dos Anjos (160 lbs.) vs. Renato Moicano (160 lbs.)
#10 Edson Barboza (145.5 lbs.) vs. #11 Bryce Mitchell (145.5 lbs.)
Kevin Holland (170 lbs.) vs. Alex Oliveira (170 lbs.)
Greg Hardy (266 lbs.) vs. Serghei Spivac (243.5 lbs.)
PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN/ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET)
Jamie Mullarkey (155.5 lbs.) vs. Jalin Turner (156 lbs.)
#3 Marina Rodriguez (116 lbs.) vs. #4 Yan Xiaonan (116 lbs.)
Nicolae Negumereanu (205.5 lbs.) vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu (206 lbs.)
Mariya Agapova (126 lbs.) vs. Maryna Moroz (125.5 lbs.)
PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN+, 6 p.m. ET)
Brian Kelleher (145 lbs.) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov (146 lbs.)
#13 Tim Elliott (126 lbs.) vs. #15 Tagir Ulanbekov (125.5 lbs.)
Ludovit Klein (156 lbs.) vs. Devonte Smith (156 lbs.)
Dustin Jacoby (205.5 lbs.) vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (206 lbs.)
Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC 272, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening. The UFC is back on PPV for this event, and boy has this event suffered a lot of setbacks. This event was originally supposed to host the trilogy fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway for the featherweight title with a co-main event rematch between Aljamain Sterling and Petr Yan clashing over the bantamweight title. Well needless to say neither of those fights are happening here, Volkanovski and Holloway fell apart entirely and is now Volkanovski vs. Chan Sung Jung set for UFC 273 while the rematch between Yan and Sterling also got bumped to UFC 273 to accommodate Sterling’s recovery timeline from neck surgery. Now we’ve got a rare non-title main event when friends turned bitter rivals Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal will fight it out. The co-main event was to be former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos taking on rising contender Rafael Fiziev (a fight that itself was supposed to main event UFC on ESPN+ 59 a couple of weeks ago) but during fight week Fiziev came down with COVID and now Renato Moicano steps in on short notice to battle dos Anjos in a five round co-main event. Elsewhere on the cad rising contender Bryce Mitchell meets his stiffest test to date when he clashes with Edson Barboza. We might get a strawweight contender out of the clash between Marina Rodriguez and Yan Xiaonan on the prelims, and there’s a fight between ranked flyweights buried on the early prelims because the UFC hates flyweights.
UFC 272 comes to the world from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. We’ve got Jon Anik, Joe Rogan, and Michael Bisping on commentary. As for the rules Nevada uses a hybrid set up, they’ve adopted most of the newer rules but you still only need one hand on the mat to be considered downed. We do have the use of instant replay, an out of cage official who can request it, and the fight can be restarted after the use of instant replay if that’s applicable to the situation. Also keep in mind we’re in the 30 foot cage tonight.
Michal Oleksiejczuk has gone 2-2 in his last four fights but is currently on a two fight winning streak and if he can get that to three in a row here he might be looking at some ranked opposition for his next fight. Dustin Jacoby hasn’t lost since returning to the UFC in 2020, going 4-0 with 1 No Contest during that time and now he’s looking to earn a step up in class if he can continue his winning ways tonight. Jacoby is a slight -180 favorite while Oleksiejczuk is the +155 underdog.
Light Heavyweight Bout: Dustin Jacoby (16-5-1, 205.5 lbs.) vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (16-4 1 NC, 206 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Jacoby is three inches taller with two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Oleksiejczuk, and they touch gloves to get us going. A lot of feinting from Oleksiejczuk, and the “woo’s” have started. Jacoby lands a body kick. Right from Jacoby then another couple of body kicks. Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. A lot of moving and bouncing from Oleksiejczuk, they get close and Oleksiejczuk gets poked in the eye so we’ve got a timeout. Replay confirms the thumb in the eye, Oleksiejczuk takes 40 seconds then we’re back to fighting. Jacoby lands a few jabs while backing up, Oleksiejczuk lands a left to the body. Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. Jacoby avoids a few punches but those are getting close. Leg kick from Jacoby but Oleksiejczuk catches it and gets a takedown, Jacoby pops up and they separate. A couple of jabs from Jacoby land, then Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. Jacoby lands a left hook. Oleksiejczuk lands a straight left. Jacoby is doing a bit of stance switching but not much is coming from his southpaw stance. Bit of a knee from Jacoby then he tries a double leg but that stalls on the fence. Oleksiejczuk spins free rather quickly. Oleksiejczuk lands a couple of body shots. Jacoby is trying to establish his jab but the pressure of Oleksiejczuk is getting to him. Another body shot from Oleksiejczuk. They trade some lead hand punches to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Oleksiejczuk
ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Both men are still probing with the lead hands, Jacoby lands a left hand. Bit of an uppercut from Jacoby, Jacoby is the one pushing forward now and lands kicks then a left hook that stumbles Oleksiejczuk. Jacoby looks to flurry, Oleksiejczuk lands a body shot but Jacoby keeps pushing forward and they clinch up. Elbows from Jacoby in the clinch before Oleksiejczuk spins free. Jacoby lands a couple of jabs as they both look to reset. Oleksiejczuk is coming forward now, he’s trying to pressure now that he thinks Jacoby is tired. Jacoby gets a takedown in the clinch, Oleksiejczuk threatens an armbar then stands up but eats a knee as they clinch. Bit of a right from Jacoby as they break. Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand, he’s still pressing forward. Body shot from Oleksiejczuk then they clinch again. They break without incident. Oleksiejczuk misses a couple of punches. One two from Oleksiejczuk lands. Jacoby lands a right but he’s visibly slowed down as the round has gone on. Oleksiejczuk lands another left. They split some jabs then Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. Both men land power hand punches. They clinch up and hit the fence, Oleksiejczuk lands a few body shots then Jacoby works elbows as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Jacoby, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Jacoby is still switching his stance a bit, though his southpaw isn’t opening up his kicks like you’d think. A few lefts from Jacoby land. Oleksiejczuk misses a left hand. Stiff jab from Jacoby. Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. Another left from Oleksiejczuk. Jacoby lands a left hook. One two from Oleksiejczuk, and the ref warns Jacoby again about the fingers. Seems there was an eye poke to Oleksiejczuk, replay confirms it and we’re back to fighting after about 30 seconds. Jacoby lands a couple of rights then Oleksiejczuk cracks him with a left. Oleksiejczuk lands a left to the body. Bit of a knee from Jacoby then a left hand behind it. They split jabs, but Jacoby is the one coming forward. Oleksiejczuk starts pressing forward and lands a right hand. Jacoby lands a left hand then forces a clinch. Some knees from Jacoby as he’s got Oleksiejczuk on the cage. Jacoby is after a takedown but can’t quite finish it. Some short punches from Jacoby, Oleksiejczuk needs to get off the fence. Bit of a knee from Jacoby then a couple of elbows as they break. Oleksiejczuk catches a leg kick but nothing comes of it as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Jacoby, 29-28 Jacoby overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Dustin Jacoby via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
Mic time for Jacoby after the win, he puts over Joe Rogan then says both of his legs and one foot were injured coming in and that’s why he didn’t kick much and his cardio kind of sucked. He says the game plan was to “nut up and go”, then promises he’ll be better the next time out.
Devonte Smith has gone 3-2 in the UFC but he’s coming off of a loss and is trying to avoid his first ever losing streak. Ludovit Klein has gone 1-2 in the UFC and is currently on a two fight losing streak, he took this fight on very short notice but he still needs a win rather badly to get a bit of job security. Smith is a slight -155 favorite to +135 for Klein.
Lightweight Bout: Ludovit Klein (17-4, 156 lbs.) vs. Devonte Smith (11-3, 156 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Smith is two inches taller and has three and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves, Klein fighting southpaw. Smith lands a front kick to the body. Leg kick from smith, he’s poking at distance thus far. Bit of a one two from Klein then a body kick behind it. Smith lands a body kick of his own. Klein lands another one two. Smith lands a right hand. Klein has a head kick blocked but he lands a left hand behind it. Bit of a right from Smith then he lands a body kick. Klein lands a left to the body. Klein lands a left that wobbles Smith, he tries to follow up but Smith grabs a clinch and stalls that momentum. Some knees to the body from Klein. A few more knees from Klein but he’s struggling to get out of the clinch. Smith lands a knee of his own but things stall out and the ref breaks them up. Leg kick from Smith, who seems mostly recovered. Klein with a bit of a head kick, that staggers Smith and they clinch up to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein
ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Smith lands a body kick, then has a couple of head kicks blocked. Bit of a left from Klein. Another couple of head kicks from Smith, Klein is blocking them but there’s a lot of heat on them. Klein fires a head kick of his own, then backs Smith to the fence and they clinch again. Some short elbows from Klein as he’s got Smith on the fence. They break and Smith fires some jabs. Bit of a body kick from Klein then he lands a left hand. Smith lands a right to the body. Another body shot from Smith, then Klein lands a body kick. Klein lands a leg kick to the rear leg. Smith avoids a spinning attack and tries a takedown but things just stall on the fence again. Klein lands some knees to the leg and body. Smith lands a couple of knees to the body then an elbow but Klein lands an uppercut. Elbow from Klein lands. The ref breaks them up after a bit when things slow down. Smith ducks a punch and tries a takedown but Klein’s balance holds up and he defends until they hit the fence. Klein turns Smith into the fence and they’ll end the round in the clinch.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein, 20-18 Klein overall
ROUND THREE: Both men come out throwing high kicks, they punch then Klein lands a front kick to the body that seems to hurt Smith. Klein punches Smith to the fence, he lands another couple of body shots before Smith clinches up. Smith lands a right hand as they break from the clinch. Klein lands a one two. Smith lands a right hand. Body kick from Smith, Klein returns it. Klein lands an inside leg kick then they clinch again. Smith lands a few knees to the body then they separate. Both men land inside leg kicks then Smith lands a jab. Right from Smith but Klein fires back and lands a body kick. Front kick from Klein lands, then a bit of a left hand. Smith lands a jab. Smith lands a right hand. Right to the body from Smith. They trade punches then Smith lands a knee and an elbow. Klein lands another body kick but Smith is coming on. Klein tries a takedown, Smith defends and they hit the fence. Bit of an elbow from Klein as they break. Klein lands a left then a right and an inside leg kick. Smith misses a right hand. Smith blocks a head kick, and lands a leg kick to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Smith, 29-28 Klein overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ludovit Klein via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)
Clucky is confirmed to be in Vegas, 29-28 for Smith is suspect but Sal D’Amato with the 30-27 for Klein is also quite dubious. Mic time for Klein, he’s happy to have won and talks about training hard every day.
Tim Elliott has gone just 2-4 in his last six fights and just had a two fight winning streak snapped by Matheus Nicolau, now Elliott is trying to get back on the winning side of things and prove the old dog still has some worthwhile fight in him. Tagir Ulanbekov is on a five fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC that have seen him catch the eye of a lot of hardcore fans, now he’s taking a step up to fight fellow top fifteen contenders and a win here would easily be the biggest of his career. Despite being ranked lower the odds are with Ulanbekov at -235 while the +190 on Elliott might tempt a few bettors.
Flyweight Bout: #13 Tim Elliott (17-12-1, 126 lbs.) vs. #15 Tagir Ulanbekov (13-1, 125.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Ulanbekov has four inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves, Elliott switches his stance constantly as the fight goes on. Ulanbekov lands a couple of jabs then a one two. Elliott lands a calf kick then a body kick. Ulanbekov with some more jabs as he circles. Elliott blocks a high kick. Both men land punches then Elliott gets a takedown into half guard. Ulanbekov wall walks, eats a knee on the way up, and then gets free. That knee might have been illegal but no call from the ref and the broadcast angle wasn’t great. A few more jabs from Ulanbekov then a right hand. Front kick from Ulanbekov, then Elliott lands a calf kick. They clinch and trade body work then break. Elliott lands a left hand. Ulanbekov keeps working his jab, then they clinch as Ulanbekov bounces up after a double leg. They break and Ulanbekov lands punches to the face. One two from Ulanbekov lands, Elliott tries a takedown and spins Ulanbekov down but Ulanbekov scrambles back up almost instantly. The ref warns Elliott about pointing his fingers. Ulanbekov lands a right hand. Both men land punches in close. Elliott lands a calf kick. Ulanbekov lands another right hand. Ulanbekov lands a right, and Elliott lands a counter left hand. Elliott avoids a few strikes from Ulanbekov then clobbers him with a left hand. Ulanbekov fights up and Elliott takes him down. Elliott lands a knee as Ulanbekov wall walks. They break then just kind of ice the last few seconds.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Elliott
ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Both men show the jab as they circle. Ulanbekov lands a right hand. Elliott lands another left. Elliott avoids a takedown, Ulanbekov is struggling to find consistent offense. Bit of a right from Ulanbekov then an uppercut. Elliott lands a couple of body shots but takes a counter right. Double leg from Ulanbekov, Elliott moves to the fence and looks to wall walk. Ulanbekov jumps to the back as they get vertical, he tries a mat return but Elliott granby rolls through and lands a punch as they reset. A right from Ulanbekov staggers Elliott for a second. They clinch up and trade blows in the clinch then Elliott lands a right as they break. Elliott lands a body shot then takes a right hand counter. Ulanbekov avoids a takedown and they hit the fence. Ulanbekov tries a trip Elliott down but Elliott counters and gets on top but Ulanbekov bounces up and they break. Another clinch, Ulanbekov lands a knee and they break. Another clinch and they wrestle to the mat then back up. Ulanbekov lands some elbows and uppercuts in the clinch, Elliott returns them then they break. Another clinch and Elliott lands body shots. Ulanbekov works some body shots in the clinch then tries a double leg as the round ends.
SOCRECARD: 10-9 Ulanbekov but a close one, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: Elliott is back to forward pressure. Ulanbekov lands a body kick. Elliott lands a body kick of his own. Ulanbekov lands an uppercut then an elbow in close but Elliott lands body shots in close. A few rights from Ulanbekov land. Elliott lands a left hand. Ulanbekov lands another right hand. Elliott lands an elbow. They clinch up and Ulanbekov lands knees to the body before they break. Ulanbekov lands a one two. Elliott eats more punches then stops a double leg and they hit the fence. Ulanbekov gets a high crotch lift, Elliott bounces right back up but now Ulanbekov is on his back and starts looking for mat returns. Some knees to the thigh from Ulanbekov as Elliott holds onto a double wrist lock. Ulanbekov starts climbing for the backpack, he gets a body triangle and rides Elliott down. Ulanbekov grabs for the choke but can’t quite finish it. Elliott is hand fighting well and Ulanbekov lands punches to the head. More punches from Ulanbekov as he’s fishing for the choke, but he wont find it before the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Ulanbekov, 29-28 Ulanbekov overall but could go either way
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Tim Elliott via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
No issues with the scoring here, I scored it for Ulanbekov but the second could have gone to Elliott. Mic time for Elliott, he acknowledges the adrenaline dump because he’s pumped to fight in front of a crowd again. He’s happy with the win and then puts over a few people in his life.
Brian Kelleher has gone 5-2 in his last seven fights and is currently on a two fight winning streak, he’s trying to make another run towards elite status with a third consecutive win here. Umar Nurmagomedov is undefeated as a professional including a successful UFC debut a little over a year ago, now he’s back in action and looking to continue building momentum and hype as he starts climbing the UFC ranks. Nurmagomedov is the biggest favorite on the whole card at a whopping -1000 against +650 on Kelleher.
Featherweight Bout: Brian Kelleher (24-12, 145 lbs.) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov (13-0, 146 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Nurmagomedov is two inches taller with three inches of reach over Kelleher. They touch gloves to get us going. A bit of stance switching from Nurmagomedov as he circles. Both men probe with kicks as they try to get a read on each other. Nurmagomedov lands a front kick then a right hand. Some inside calf kicks from Nurmagomedov then a lead leg head kick. Bit of a left from Nurmagomedov, then he avoids the counters and they clinch up. Nurmagomedov gets Kelleher on the fence, he works a few knees to the body while they fight for position. Kelleher avoids a takedown attempt but he can’t get free. Nurmagomedov lands a knee to the body then separates. Double leg from Nurmagomedov, Kelleher bounces right back up but he’s still clinched. Nurmagomedov with a level change along the fence then he slips behind Kelleher and gets the back. That choke comes in lightning fast and Kelleher has to tap.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Umar Nurmagomedov via Submission, rear naked choke, at 3:15 of Round 1
The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Nurmagomedov for his work this evening. Mic time for Nurmagomedov, he’s happy to have beaten such a tough opponent then puts over Kelleher. Asked if he’ll stay at featherweight or return to his more normal bantamweight he definitely plans on bantamweight, this fight just came together very quickly for both men and they made it featherweight. To close he gives love to a lot of people back home and says he’d be willing to fight again in a week if someone is free.
Alright, that will end the early prelims, but we’re still on ESPN+ for the next part of the card.
Maryna Moroz is currently on a two fight winning streak since returning to flyweight, and if she can get to three in a row here she’ll have a case to challenge a ranked opponent next. Mariya Agapova has gone 2-1 in the UFC but is coming off of her most complete performance and would likewise be in position to start fighting ranked opposition with a win. The odds are with Agapova at -170 while Moroz’s comeback sits at +150.
Women’s Flyweight Bout: Mariya Agapova (10-2, 126 lbs.) vs. Maryna Moroz (10-3, 125.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Moroz is an inch taller while Agapova has an inch and a half of reach advantage. Southpaw for Agapova. Both women probe with the jab as we get going. Agapova misses a few punches. Moroz is starting to stalk forward, she ducks under some punches and gets a clinch on the fence. Moroz is looking for a takedown but she’s struggling to get this going. Agapova starts sneaking in hammer fists and elbows, she lands a few illegal downward elbows to the back. Moroz finally gets Agapova down and moves to the back with one hook in. Both hooks in now for Moroz and she’s digging for the choke. Moroz starts working the choke, she’s not quite under the chin but she’s starting to tighten things up while Agapova hand fights. Agapova breaks the hooks and gets on top but Moroz tries an armbar. Agapova gets her arm free and moves to the back. Moroz stands as Agapova takes the backpack position. Agapova bails on the position then Moroz starts looking for another takedown. Knees go back and forth as the round ends in the clinch.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Moroz
ROUND TWO: Agapova looks a little fatigued after just the first round. Moroz starts punching forward and forces a clinch on the fence. Knees from Moroz while she gets a body lock. Moroz is able to hit an inside trip and moves to the back again. One hook in for Moroz, she starts working from the ride position while Agapova tries to wall walk. Moroz lands punches while riding Agapova. Agapova tries to roll to her back but Moroz is riding her well and starts threatening an arm triangle. Full mount for Moroz, she unloads with elbows as Agapova gives up her back again. More punches from Moroz as she works out of the ride position. Moroz gets both hooks in and continues landing punches to the head. Agapova is trying to move but gets dragged back and Moroz gets an arm triangle choke going. Moroz gets to side control, locks down the choke and forces the tap.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Maryna Moroz via Submission, arm triangle choke, at 3:27 of Round 2
That was a lot of one way traffic. Mic time for Moroz, she thanks her sponsors and her opponent for the fight then plays a bit with the crowd. She thanks all of her coaches, then mentions her family is still back in Ukraine and there’s a war going on and mentions how hard the week has been for her. She talks a bit about all the stuff she’s had to overcome to get here and she’s happy to be active and fighting again.
Nicolae Negumereanu has gone 2-1 in the UFC and is on a two fight winning streak, if he can get to three in a row tonight he could be due a slightly higher profile fight for his next bout. Kennedy Nzechukwu has gone 3-2 in the UFC but is coming off of a pretty nasty knockout loss in his last fight, now he’s trying to bounce back and avoid his first ever losing streak. Nzechukwu is a slight -135 favorite to a +12\15 for Negumereanu.
Light Heavyweight Bout: Nicolae Negumereanu (11-1, 205.5 lbs.) vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu (9-2, 206 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Nzechukwu has five inches of height and reach over Negumereanu. Southpaw for Nzecukwu. Negumereanu is backing up but he keeps probing at the legs with thrust kicks. Bit of a jab from Nzechukwu. Bit of a right from Negumereanu. Negumereanu lands a right to the body. Nzechukwu lands a left hand. Not a lot of feinting from either man, which is something Negumereanu needs if he’s going to find success. Nzechukwu lands a left hand. Negumereanu avoids a left hand. Nzechukwu lands a front kick to the body. We get an eye poke to Negumereanu so here’s a timeout. Replay confirms the eye poke and we’re back to fighting after 20 seconds. Negumereanu starts pushing forward a little more aggressively, he’s popping the jab. Inside leg kick from Negumereanu. Nzechukwu works a front kick to the body while backing up. Bit of a left from Nzechukwu. Negumereanu lands a right hand, then they trade a bit in close. Negumereanu is starting to force the issue more now. Nzechukwu lands a left then takes a leg kick to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Nzechukwu but could go either way
ROUND TWO: Negumereanu keeps coming forward to start the round, he lands a bit of a right hand. Nzechukwu keeps working the jab but he’s not really keeping Negumereanu off of him with it now. Negumereanu forces a clinch on the fence and starts looking for takedowns. Some knees from Negumereanu, mostly to the thigh but he’s just trying to open up a chance to get Nzechukwu down. Negumereanu keeps looking for takedowns, mostly trips but he can’t quite find it as Nzechukwu is using the fence well. Negumereanu with more knees to the thigh as he looks to switch to a high crotch but Nzechukwu is able to break the grip. The ref has seen enough of this position and separates the fighters. Negumereanu lands a right hand. Nzechukwu lands a front kick to the body. Some jabs from Nzechukwu but Negumereanu is starting to slip and counter. A couple of counter punches land for Nzechukwu. Negumereanu lands a bit of a right hand. They trade long range punches but Nzechukwu keeps touching Negumereanu and has his nose all kinds of bloody. Negumereanu forces another clinch and they’ll end the round there.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Nzechukwu but another very close one, 20-18 Nzechukwu overall
ROUND THREE: Negumereanu comes out and tries to push forward, but he gets poked in the eye and we’ve got timeout. Replay shows the poke was bad. Negumereanu’s right eye is blinking as the doctor comes into check it. The doctor will let him continue if he can see, Negumereanu says he can see and the ref takes a point from Nzechukwu as we restart. Negumereanu starts pushing forward again but he runs into a knee form Nzechukwu. Nzechukwu tries a flying knee but Negumereanu takes him down. Nzechukwu wall walks quickly but Negumereanu is on his back now. They get chest to chest on the fence then Nzechukwu lands a knee to the body as they break. Nzechukwu lands a counter left. Negumereanu keeps trying to close distance with a wild right hand and that’s not really working for him. Nzechukwu lands another left. Negumereanu lands a right hand and tries to keep forcing the fight. Nzechukwu lands a left, then another one. Negumereanu lands a right but takes two punches in reply. They trade power hand punches. Nzechukwu lands another left. Negumereanu lands a right hand. Negumereanu gets close and lands a couple of rights, he’s trying to swing for the fences as the round ends but wont find the finish he probably needed.
SCORECARD: 9-9 DRAW after the point deduction, 29-27 Nzechukwu overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nicolae Negumereanu via split decision (27-29, 29-27 x2)
I’m not going to fully throw up a Clucky here, but that is some wonky scoring. No interview for Negumereanu.
Marina Rodriguez is on a three fight winning streak and her only professional loss was a controversial split decision to Carla Esparza, now as she takes on a fellow top five contender if she’s able to win here she could lay claim to being the next title contender. Yan Xiaonan just had a 12 fight unbeaten streak snapped by Carla Esparza, now she’s trying to rebound by taking on another top contender and retain her position in the title picture. The odds are with Rodriguez at -275 against +220 for Yan.
Strawweight Bout: #3 Marina Rodriguez (15-1-2, 116 lbs.) vs. #4 Yan Xiaonan (13-2 1 NC, 116 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Rodriguez is an inch taller with two inches of reach advantage. Yan comes out looking to kick, she’s pressing forward. Rodriguez lands a leg kick then a right hand and angles away from the cage. Yan lands a right hand. A right from Rodriguez stuns Yan for a second. They both miss punches as Yan keeps looking to be the aggressor. Yan lands a right hand. Rodriguez avoids some punches then lands a leg kick. Yan fires a combination that partially lands. Rodriguez lands a calf kick, then Yan returns it. Both women avoid punches. Rodriguez avoids a kick and lands a couple of punches to counter. Both women land punches in close. Rodriguez lands a jab. Yan lands an uppercut in close, she’s got the better hand speed. Rodriguez lands a leg kick but misses the follow up punches. Rodriguez lands a right hand and they get close and trade before we get a low blow to Yan and a timeout after it. Replay confirms the knee to the groin, and the doctor comes in to check on her. Yan can continue and the ref gives Rodriguez a warning then we’re back to fighting after 90 seconds or so. Yan lands a side kick to the face. Rodriguez lands a left hook then a knee to the body. They tie up, Yan gets a takedown and Rodriguez tries to tie her up for a leg lock as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Yan but a close one
ROUND TWO: Rodriguez starts stalking forward, they punch into a clinch and then Rodriguez gets Yan on the fence. They break without incident. Yan keeps chopping with an inside leg kick, then they trade rights. Rodriguez lands a calf kick. Bit of a combination from Yan. Rodriguez fires a combination of her own, but she’s struggling to corral Yan. Bit of a calf kick from Rodriguez. Rodriguez lands a left hook, Yan counters with a right then avoids a clinch. Rodriguez gets close and lands a knee but Yan gets a takedown against the fence. Rodriguez looks to wall walk, she’s up but Yan is on her back. They get chest to chest then Rodriguez avoids a trip but can’t quite get free. Yan lands an elbow as they break. Rodriguez lands a right hand. Rodriguez punches into a clinch, lands some knees then avoids a takedown as they clinch. Yan has her back on the fence and they trade knees while fighting for position. More knees from Rodriguez then she lands an elbow as they break. Rodriguez closes the round by landing a combination of punches.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Rodriguez, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: Yan looks a bit more stationary this round. Rodriguez lands a combination of punches. Yan blocks some punches but she can’t find her counters. Bit of a combination from Rodriguez, she seems to have found something to exploit in Yan’s game. Rodriguez lands a jab. Both women land punches in close. Yan lands an inside leg kick. Both women land punches in close. Yan blocks some punches but again isn’t firing back. Rodriguez lands a jab as she starts backing Yan up. They trade jabs. Rodriguez with a bit of a right then a clinch and she starts working knees right away. Elbow from Rodriguez then she misses a right as they break. Bit of a front kick from Rodriguez. Yan tries a side kick to the face. Both women land rights. Another right from Rodriguez then a body shot. Rodriguez lands a left hook, Yan lands one of her own. Front kick to the body from Rodriguez then they both miss rights. Rodriguez lands a right then a left hook and Yan is a little wobbled. Yan lands a left hook but her volume is dropping off. Another couple of punches from Rodriguez then she avoids a spinning back fist. Rodriguez grabs a clinch and lands knees and elbows, Yan fires back as they break. Rodriguez chases Yan for the final few seconds of the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Rodriguez, 29-28 Rodriguez overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marina Rodriguez via split decision (28-29, 29-28 x2)
No issues with the split, the fight likely hinges on the second round and there’s definitely an argument that Yan won. Mic time for Rodriguez, she thanks her coaches for talking her through the fight and hyping her up in the third. She knew the fight was close and acknowledges she lost the first but feels she won the second and third rounds. To close she says she’s ready for the belt and wants to be the next champion.
Jalin Turner is on a three fight winning streak with all of those being finishes, he’s hoping to extend that streak tonight and start making a case to take on some bigger names in the future. Jamie Mullarkey has gone 2-2 in the UFC but he’s on a two fight winning streak with both of those being stoppage wins, he’s likewise trying to extend his success and start separating himself from the crowded pack at lightweight. Turner is the -150 favorite to +130 on Mullarkey.
Lightweight Bout: Jamie Mullarkey (14-4, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Jalin Turner (11-5, 156 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Turner has three inches of height and reach on Mullarkey. Southpaw for Turner, and they touch gloves to get us going. Turner lands a body kick. Mullarkey lands a body shot. They trade rights then Turner lands another body kick. Both men miss punches. Turner lands a left hand. Mullarkey lands a stiff jab. Another body kick from Turner then they trade rights and Turner lands knees then a body shot but Mullarkey lands a left hook that wobbles Turner. Crazy little exchange there, and Mullarkey gets Turner on the fence and starts working for a takedown. Elbow from Mullarkey. Turner lands a knee to the body as they break, then lands a couple of more body kicks before missing a head kick. A right from Turner lands and he avoids a clinch. Turner is starting to just chew Mullarkey up. Stiff right from Turner lands. Mullarkey avoids a jumping knee then lands a right to the body. Body shot from Mullarkey then he tries a head kick but Turner blocks it. Turner lands another right then a couple of body shots. Those body shots are adding up as Turner is dissecting Mullarkey. Turner lands another right hand. Bit of a right from Mullarkey but his nose is all kinds of messed up. Mullarkey lands a body shot but takes three punches in reply from Turner. Turner lands another front kick to the body and avoids a clinch. Mullarkey hits a double leg and moves into side control. Some short elbows from Mullarkey but he’s not finding too much clean offense. Mullarkey looks for mount but Turner gets full guard as he tries it. Half guard now for Mullarkey as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Turner
ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Turner lands a couple of right hands. Turner lands a knee to the body then a body kick. A left from Turner to the body, then a right hook to the head causes Mullarkey to crumble and Turner unloads as he turtles up which gets the stoppage.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jalin Turner via TKO, punches, at :46 of Round 2
Great outing from Turner, who gets an interview after that one. Turner says he’s worked a lot on his inside fighting and he feels he’s composed everywhere. He talks us through some highlights then says he’s aiming for the title eventually and he’s going to keep going forward.
Here’s the finish, the clip doesn’t have a vicious knee to the body that Turner landed which is what really spelled the end. You can see Mullarkey’s rear hand tight to his body to protect the ribs, and the way he falls is typical of what happens when the body gives out. The right hook from Turner is nice too, but it’s more icing on the cake of the body work Turner invested in.
Jalen Turner has effortless power 💪
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— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) March 6, 2022
That wraps up the prelims, on to PPV for the main card.
Serghei Spivac just had a three fight winning streak snapped by Tom Aspinall, now he’s trying to avoid his first ever losing streak while also scoring one of the higher profile wins of his career. Greg Hardy is on a two fight losing streak and is coming off of a pretty bad knockout loss to Tai Tuivasa, he needs a win pretty badly here because a three fight losing streak could spell the end of his time in the UFC. The odds are with Spivac at -195 to a +165 comeback on Hardy.
Heavyweight Bout: Greg Hardy (7-4 1 NC, 266 lbs.) vs. Serghei Spivac (13-3, 243.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Hardy is two inches taller, has two and a half inches of reach advantage, and will be much heavier since he cuts to the heavyweight weight limit. Hardy might be as much as 40 pounds heavier as they’re in the cage. They touch gloves to get us going. Hardy starts trying to establish his jab, then lands a hard calf kick. Spivac avoids a few punches, then tries a single leg and switches to a hip toss and gets Hardy down. Hardy scoots to the fence and starts looking to wall walk while Spivac works from half guard. Spivac gets the back as Hardy wall walks then starts working for a mat return and gets one. Hardy back up, and mat returned again. Spivac uses a half nelson to push Hardy over and gets on top in full mount, he then lays in strikes while Hardy turtles up and the ref waves the fight off.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Serghei Spivac via TKO, punches, at 2:16 of Round 1
The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Spivac for his work this evening. Mic time for Spivac, he feels great after the win and puts over Hardy as a dangerous opponent but he was prepared. He planned to catch Hardy when Hardy made a mistake, then he talks us through the finish and knew he wasn’t going to let Hardy off the hook once he got a dominant position. Asked what he’d like next he doesn’t make call outs he just answers the UFC’s call. To close he asks for a post fight bonus.
Time to announce the first inductee into the 2022 UFC Hall of Fame. Not surprising it’s the former undisputed and undefeated lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Richly deserved.
Kevin Holland had a darn good 2020 but a disastrous 2021, he went 0-2 with 1 No Contest last year and is now hoping a move to welterweight will breathe new life into his UFC run. Alex Oliveira is on a three fight losing streak with two of those being first round finishes, he needs a win pretty badly as a loss here combined with his overall career trajectory could easily result in him getting cut by the UFC. Holland is a rather hefty -335 favorite while an Oliveira win would payout at +260.
Welterweight Bout: Kevin Holland (21-7 1 NC, 170 lbs.) vs. Alex Oliveira (22-11-1 2 NC, 170 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Holland is four inches taller and has four and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Holland opens up with kicks. Calf kick from Holland then Oliveira returns it. Another leg kick from Holland. Oliveira is looking to counter when Holland tries to lunge in. Holland lands another calf kick. Another calf kick but Oliveira lands a counter right this time. Bit of a left from Holland. They trade rights then Holland lands a body kick. Oliveira lands a right hand then a hard leg kick but Holland ties up the legs and starts looking for a leg lock. Holland gets up but is mat returned. Another stand up from Holland then they separate. Holland lands a hard right hand, then Oliveira returns it. A one two from Oliveira wobbles Holland for a second. Calf kick from Holland. Bit of a jab from Oliveira, then Holland lands a calf kick. Oliveira lands a calf kick, then Holland returns it. Body kick from Holland, Oliveira lands a body shot to counter. Another leg kick from Holland and Oliveira is limping now. Holland back to the calf, those are rapidly adding up. Oliveira lands a couple of calf kicks then jumps on the back and will end the round on Holland’s back.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Oliveira but a close one
ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Holland lands a calf kick. Oliveira lands a calf kick in return. A right from Holland floors Oliveira, he gets on top against the fence and unloads from half guard, he switches to elbows and pounds Oliveira out as the ref stops the fight.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Kevin Holland via TKO, punches and elbows, at :38 of Round 2
Mic time for Holland, he puts over Oliveira and jokingly apologizes for going for the leg lock in the first. He jokes about finally becoming a professional athlete down at welterweight. Asked who he’d like next he says he just took out one Cowboy and wouldn’t hate fighting another then plays with the crowd to close.
Edson Barboza has been with the UFC since 2010 and has gone 2-2 since dropping to featherweight in 2020, he’s coming off of a loss to Giga Chikadze though and needs a win to defend his top ranking. Bryce Mitchell is undefeated and has gone 5-0 in the UFC against steadily increasing opposition, now he gets his first taste of the top 10 and if he can take out Barboza tonight he’ll get the biggest win of his career and continue moving towards the title picture. The odds favor Mitchell at -165 while the +145 comeback on Barboza might be a tempting value bet.
Featherweight Bout: #10 Edson Barboza (22-10, 145.5 lbs.) vs. #11 Bryce Mitchell (14-0, 145.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Barboza is an inch taller but has a significant five inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Mitchell, Barboza starts landing inside leg kicks very quickly. Mitchell is pushing forward, he takes another inside leg kick. Barboza is trying to stay mobile so Mitchell can’t take him down safely. Mitchell checks a leg kick then lands a side kick to the body. Barboza lands a jab and circles away from the fence. They trade kicks then Mitchell lands a left that sits Barboza down. Mitchell goes to get on top, he’s after a takedown as Barboza wall walks then Mitchell hits an inside trip and lands on top in full guard. Some body shots from Mitchell while Barboza closes his guard and looks to stall things out. Barboza starts trying to control posture but Mitchell is landing short punches while looking to pass the guard. Mitchell lands some more elbows as he’s got Barboza stuffed into the fence. Some short little uppercuts from Mitchell land, he’s beating Barboza up here. Barboza kicks Mitchell off and then separates. A couple of body shots from Barboza land. Mitchell avoids a spinning back kick. Barboza lands a right hand and misses a knee to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Mitchell
ROUND TWO: Mitchell baits Barboza forward then hits a double leg into full guard. Some of Barboza’s punches have Mitchell’s left eye swelling up. Mitchell starts working punches to the head and body but he needs to work to pass because Barboza is just holding him down and looking for a stand up. Mitchell postures up and lands an elbow which cuts Barboza open around the left eyebrow. They scoot to the fence and Mitchell resumes landing ground and pound. Barboza is still just trying to hang on and get the ref to save him. Mitchell lands another elbow. Some more punches from Mitchell then he works to pass but Barboza uses a butterfly hook to stand up. Mitchell gets on the back and drags Barboza back to the mat then looks for mount but has to settle for half guard. Nearly full mount for Mitchell now, he gets caught in 3/4 mount but he lands punches onto Barboza’s head while Barboza gets half guard back. Some more short blows from Mitchell, then he postures up and lands punches as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-8 Mitchell as he won it by enough, 20-17 Mitchell overall
ROUND THREE: The swelling around Mitchell’s left eye is more under control now. Barboza comes out and lands a body shot. Bit of a right from Barboza. Mitchell avoids a few punches, he slips throwing a kick but Barboza lets him stand back up. Body kick form Barboza. Mitchell hits a double leg and lands in the full guard of Barboza, once again Barboza seems like he’s just going to tie up and look for the ref to intervene. Mitchell starts landing body to head punches. Barboza tries to get his guard working but he’s struggling to actually get to a hip and disrupt the base of Mitchell. Mitchell lands some punches and elbows. Barboza tries a triangle choke but Mitchell is able to posture up and slam through the position. Mitchell looks to pass again as he postures up but he can’t get around the guard. Mitchell finally passes to half guard and then threatens an arm triangle which he uses to pass towards full mount. Punches from Mitchell, he moves to full mount off of those and starts working from there. Barboza is able to get half guard but Mitchell passes again and lands elbows while Barboza gets half guard again. The round ends with Mitchell landing more punches to the head.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Mitchell, borderline 10-8, 30-26 Mitchell overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Bryce Mitchell via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26, 30-25)
Not giving Mitchell a 10-8 at all seems wrong, especially under the scoring criteria they’re using. Mic time for Mitchell, he thanks God first and foremost and puts over Barboza. He thanks some crypto that’s sponsoring him and other fighters, then says he doesn’t fear any man and this isn’t a sport to him this is his life. He gives love to Arkansas and says he’s going to give love back to that state and he’s donating half of his fight purse to a charity that helps children in Arkansas with medical conditions.
Rafael dos Anjos scored a hard fought win over Paul Felder when he returned to lightweight in November of 2020, now dos Anjos is back in action and looking to make one more run towards the title he used to hold. Renato Moicano took this fight on absurdly short notice but he’s gone 3-1 since moving to lightweight and if he can take out a former champion like dos Anjos it’ll be the biggest win of his career and could launch him into the official rankings. Unsurprisingly dos Anjos is the favorite at -170 but the +150 on Moicano should tell you how respected Moicano is as a talent. Also keep in mind this is a five round fight.
Catchweight Bout: Rafael dos Anjos (30-13, 160 lbs.) vs. Renato Moicano (16-4-1, 160 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Moicano is three inches taller and has two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for dos Anjos. Moicano looks to kick, dos Anjos starts pressuring him backwards. They trade punches and clinch up. Moicano slips to the back but dos Anjos spins free and resets. Another clinch and Moicano goes to fence wrestling again. Dos Anjos spins free again and lands a body kick. Dos Anjos hits a double leg and gets in the guard of Moicano. Moicano hits a technical get up and they reset. Bit of a left from dos Anjos then he lands a head kick and a knee to the body. Dos Anjos is starting to cook now, he avoids a few punches then blocks a double leg attempt. Some jabs from dos Anjos then he hits a double leg into side control. Dos Anjos tries for knee on belly but Moicano catches him in half guard. Dos Anjos lands a few punches as Moicano gets full guard. A few body shots from dos Anjos then a hard left to the head. Dos Anjos passes to half guard and uses short elbows to try and pass again. Some knees to the body from dos Anjos then an elbow to the head. Moicano gets full guard back but still takes offense from dos Anjos. The round will end with dos Anjos on top.
SCORECARD: 10-9 dos Anjos
ROUND TWO: Dos Anjos is back on the pressure game, and he lands a body kick. Moicano lands a jab and is trying to avoid the fence. Bit of a knee from dos Anjos. Moicano misses an uppercut and eats a counter left. Dos Anjos tries a single leg but Moicano is able to limp leg out of it. Left from dos Anjos. Bit of an inside leg kick from Moicano. Dos Anjos keeps up the pressure, and lands a hard left hand. Moicano lands a right. Dos Anjos grabs a clinch and gets the back standing then rides Moicano down. Moicano bounces up but he’s still unable to get free of dos Anjos. Dos Anjos lets go and lands a left hand then a body kick. Moicano tries a clinch but can’t secure it. Another body shot from dos Anjos, Moicano lands an uppercut. Another body kick from dos Anjos, then he ducks under a punch and hits a double leg against the fence. Moicano is looking to wall walk but dos Anjos gets into half guard and flattens him out. Short elbows from dos Anjos as he tries to set up a pass into full mount. Dos Anjos lands some short punches as Moicano gets full guard back. Dos Anjos postures up and lands a right hand. Body to head punches from dos Anjos then he passes to half guard. Dos Anjos is fishing for an arm, the bails and lands punches to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 dos Anjos, 20-18 dos Anjos overall
ROUND THREE: Moicano is visibly fatigued at this point. Dos Anjos starts pressuring him again, he lands a left then a body shot and a body kick. Moicano is trying to get his jab going but dos Anjos is pressuring him down. Dos Anjos slips some punches and lands a body kick. Moicano tries a takedown but dos Anjos defends. Calf kick from dos Anjos. They trade punches then Moicano lands an uppercut. Head kick from dos Anjos mostly lands. A couple of lefts land from dos Anjos then he lands a calf kick. Dos Anjos lands a head kick that wobbles Moicano, he gets on top and unloads punches but Moicano gets full guard to try and defend. More punches from dos Anjos, he lands a few good punches but Moicano is able to grab a body lock and stall the offense. Dos Anjos lands a few short elbows as Moicano gets full guard back. Dos Anjos passes to half guard again, he keeps looking to pass and moves to side control but Moicano is able to hip escape to full guard. Another pass from dos Anjos, he lands some short elbows and hammer fists. Dos Anjos is fishing for an arm, he tries an arm triangle but wont find it before the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-8 dos Anjos, 30-26 dos Anjos overall
ROUND FOUR: Moicano’s corner should really consider stopping this, they wont but they should seriously think about it. The left eye of Moicano is swelling up, and the ref wants the doctor to check on it. The doctor thinks he can continue, Moicano wants to continue, so we’re fighting. Moicano starts jabbing, dos Anjos lands a body kick. Dos Anjos lands a left to the body. Calf kick from dos Anjos. Bit of a left from dos Anjos. Moicano lands a few punches, he’s still trying. Knee tap from dos Anjos and he lands in half guard. Dos Anjos is looking to pass, Moicano gets full guard back. Dos Anjos lands some body shots then elbows to the head. Half guard now for dos Anjos and he starts landing short elbows. Another elbow from dos Anjos as Moicano gets full guard again. Dos Anjos passes to half guard again and starts landing body shots. Another elbow from dos Anjos then he threatens an arm triangle but Moicano blocks that. More elbows from dos Anjos and there’s blood coming from the right eye of Moicano now. Moicano fights to his feet and they separate. Dos Anjos misses a head kick then lands a left hand to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-8 dos Anjos, 40-34 dos Anjos overall
ROUND FIVE: The doctor and ref check Moicano again, his left eye is a mess but he can see out of it. The ref gives Moicano 30 seconds to show him something before he stops it, fair warning from the ref. Dos Anjos lands a body shot. Superman punch from dos Anjos then a leg kick. Moicano tries a spinning back fist, but he’s still here and fighting. Dos Anjos lands a calf kick. A few punches from dos Anjos land, then Moicano lands a jab. Head kick from dos Anjos is partially blocked then he hits a double leg into half guard. Dos Anjos is able to posture up and looks to pass but Moicano kicks him off and stands up. Uppercut from Moicano then a knee to the body. Dos Anjos lands a few punches then a glancing head kick. Moicano avoids a takedown but his face is a mess. A few punches land for dos Anjos, then a slapping left hand connects. Moicano lands an uppercut. Dos Anjos lands a left hand. Bit of a jab from Moicano but he’s still getting out struck. Dos Anjos is taking it a bit easy on Moicano now, he’s treating this more like a sparring round than a fight. Moicano lands a left hand. Dos Anjos cracks Moicano with a left hand. Body kick from dos Anjos. They get close and trade punches, Moicano is coming on against all odds. They tie up and dos Anjos stuns Moicano with a left hand as they break and the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 dos Anjos, 50-43 dos Anjos overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Rafael dos Anjos via unanimous decision (50-44, 49-45, 49-44)
I don’t hate giving Moicano the fifth, I don’t agree but it’s not egregious. Mic time for dos Anjos, he gives glory to God first then thanks Moicano for taking the fight on ridiculously short notice and notes a lot of people ran away from this fight. He says he felt a little ring rust in here, and notes the lightweight division is stacked and thinks he might have overtaken Frankie Edgar for most time in the Octagon. To close he hopes Masvidal wins the main event and says he’d like to fight Masvidal for the BMF belt.
Colby Covington has established himself as one of the best welterweights in the world, unfortunately he also has two losses in title fights to current champion Kamaru Usman. Covington is hoping that a high profile win here will keep him close to the title as well as hold off his first ever losing streak. Jorge Masvidal is on a two fight losing streak, that’s somewhat mitigated by both of those coming in title fights with Kamaru Usman. If Masvidal wants to retain his top ranking he’s going to need a win here, and frankly beating Covington would be the best quality win on his resume. The odds are with Covington at a rather heavy -310 to a +240 payout on Masvidal.
Welterweight Bout: #1 Colby Covington (16-3, 170.5 lbs. ) vs. #6 Jorge Masvidal (35-15, 170.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Masvidal has two inches of reach advantage. Covington fighting southpaw per usual, Masvidal tries the flying knee but misses. Some stance switching from Covington as we’re getting going. Masvidal avoids a left hand. Some leg kicks from Masvidal land. Masvidal avoids a few punches but Covington punches into a clinch and they hit the fence. Covington is working from the clinch, he gets Masvidal down then starts working mat returns as he gets the back. Some knees to the leg from Covington and he drags Masvidal down to his seat. Again Masvidal bounces up but Covington keeps dragging him back down to his knees. Covington moves to the ride position and starts threatening the choke to get movement out of Masvidal. Some punches from Covington, he’s trying to get Masvidal to expose his neck but Masvidal is still defending. Covington is nearly passed to full mount, he lands some short lefts and gets to full mount. Masvidal gives up the back as he tries to stand, Covington lands elbows in the clinch then they break. Covington blocks a body kick. Masvidal alnds a front kick to the body. Covington lands a body kick, eats a counter leg kick then lands a couple of punches to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Covington
ROUND TWO: Masvidal misses a right hand. Covington slips throwing a head kick but Masvidal lets him up. Some forward pressure from Madvidal then he lands a leg kick. Bit of a left from Covington then he misses a high kick. Glancing right from Covington then he avoids a punch. Masvidal lands a body kick. They split jabs the Covington forces a clinch and gets things to the fence. Covington starts looking for takedowns, he lands an elbow. A few knees from Covington, one strays low so the ref breaks the position. Right about then we get the ESPN+ message about experiencing technical difficulties, well that sucks but at least this time it wasn’t Comcast. We come back with about 2 minutes left in the round. Masvidal lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a right from Covington. They trade rights, Covington starts pushing forward, they trade body kicks but Covington slips. Masvidal tries for a front headlock but Covington comes up on a single leg then slips to the back and starts working from the ride position again. Covington stays on Masvidal as they stand, then lands a right as they break. A few punches from Covington then a body kick. Both men land jabs, Covington is pressing the pace now and his volume is getting to Masvidal. They break and Masvidal lands a couple of punches. Covington lands some punches then clinches up. They end the round in the clinch.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Covington based on what I saw but I did miss a few minutes of it, 20-18 Covington overall
ROUND THREE: Covington starts pushing forward right away, and blocks a head kick. Masvidal blocks a head kick. Covington pushes Masvidal to the fence then punches into a clinch. Madvidal gets free but Covington is all over him with the pace. Some jabs from Covington and then he tries a double leg and gets it along the fence. Masvidal looks to wall walk but Covington gets into his full guard and flattens him out. Covington lands elbows in bunches from the closed guard. More elbows from Covington, he’s peppering in body shots as well while Masvidal tries to get his guard going. Covington lands body shots then an elbow before passing to half guard. Masvidal looks to start a wall walk but Covington moves to side control when he tries it. Some more short elbows from Covington then he puts himself into half guard for better control. Covington moves towards the back again, he gets one hook in and goes for a neck crank. More crank attempts from Covington, Masvidal spins free and tries for a single leg but Covington spins to his back with relative ease. The wrestling game of Covington is on point. Covington works out of the ride position, he lands a few knees to the body before Masvidal fights upright. Bit of a left from Masvidal, then a right as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Covington, borderline 10-8, 30-27 Covington overall
ROUND FOUR: Covington avoids a right hand and lands a left. Masvidal is trying to get his rhythm back and fires a few kicks. Covington eats a leg kick then lands a partial head kick. Masvidal avoids a double leg. Covington lands a left hand and punches Masvidal to the fence then gets a clinch. Covington is after a single leg, he can’t finish it and they break but the starts punching right away and then clinches up again. They break without incident. Covington lands an uppercut and tries another takedown, against the fence. Masvidal defends the attempt but he can’t get free. They break then Covington lands a left. A couple of punches from Covington then a high kick. They trade punches but Covington unloads with a barrage of punches against the fence and clinches again. They break without incident. Masvidal lands a body kick then a right hand that staggers Covington. Covington is backing up, but Masvidal is struggling to follow up. Covington is recovered and starts firing long combinations again then gets another clinch. Some body shots from Covington then they break. Masvidal is fading and misses a spinning kick. Covington avoids a left hand and the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Masvidal based on the knockdown but a close one, 39-37 Covington overall
ROUND FIVE: Covington gets right back to work and pressure, he lands a few punches then tries a takedown. Covington gets a takedown into the guard of Masvidal. Half guard now for Covington and he lands elbows then moves to the ride as Masvidal tries to wall walk. Masvidal fights to his feet but Covington is still on his back. Covington starts working mat returns and knees to the leg. Masvidal is trying to wall walk but he’s getting ridden. Covington is looking for hooks but he can’t get them in. Masvidal still can’t get Covington off of him. Covington drags Masvidal off of the fence and lands punches from the ride position. Masvidal tries to com up on a single leg but Covington counters him easily and is back on the back. Covington moves to full mount as we enter the final minute. Some punches from Covington land, he moves towards the back again and starts unloading with punches. Covington tries the choke but Masvidal defends. Full mount again for Covington and he lands elbows and punches as the clock runs down.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Covington, 49-46 Covington overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Colby Covington via unanimous decision (49-46, 50-44, 50-45)
No issues with any of those scores, a little surprised that only one judge gave Masvidal the 4th but again Covington owned it numerically outside of the knockdown. Mic time for Covington, he puts over Joe Rogan, thanks the military, law enforcement, and first responders out there. On to business, he just took care of Miami street trash now he wants some Louisiana swamp rat and calls out Dustin Poirier before walking off.
Masvidal gets an interview as well, he knew he was off with the wrestling and knew Covington was the better wrestler. He feels he should have had more moments like he did in the fourth but again reiterates he was flat and didn’t quite have it tonight.
Well on that note UFC 272 comes to an end. Not a bad card all around, ups and downs to be sure but not bad. We’ll be unpacking all of the fallout from this event on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast tomorrow, plus we’ll look ahead to UFC on ESPN+ 61 when Thiago Santos takes on Magomed Ankalaev. I’ll be back here for that event, and I hope you will as well. Until next time everyone, thanks for reading, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.
