411’s UFC 321 Report: Aspinall & Gane Fight To No Contest

MAIN CARD (Pay-per-view, 2 p.m. ET)
(c) Tom Aspinall (255 lbs.) vs. #1 Ciryl Gane (247.5 lbs.) – for heavyweight title
#1 Virna Jandiroba (115 lbs.) vs. #5 Mackenzie Dern (115 lbs.) – for vacant women’s strawweight title
#9 Mario Bautista (135.5 lbs.) vs. #2 Umar Nurmagomedov (136 lbs.)
#5 Jailton Almeida (237 lbs.) vs. #2 Alexander Volkov (261.5 lbs.)
#10 Azamat Murzakanov (205.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Aleksandar Rakic (205 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (FX/Disney+/ESPN+, 10 a.m. ET)
Nasrat Haqparast (156 lbs.) vs. Quillan Salkilld (155.5 lbs.)
Ikram Aliskerov (185.5 lbs.) vs. JunYong Park (185.5 lbs.)
Ludovit Klein (156 lbs.) vs. Mateusz Rebecki (155.5 lbs.)
Louie Sutherland (264.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Valter Walker (244 lbs.)
Jose Delgado (147 lbs.)* vs. Nathaniel Wood (146 lbs.)
Hamdy Abdelwahab (265 lbs.) vs. Chris Barnett (261 lbs.)
Azat Maksum (129 lbs.)* vs. Mitch Raposo (125.5 lbs.)
Jaqueline Amorim (116 lbs.) vs. Mizuki Inoue (115 lbs.)

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Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC 321, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host. The UFC has brought a pretty good PPV card here as we draw ever closer to the functional end of PPV for the UFC. Headlining we’ve got a heavyweight title fight as Tom Aspinall looks for his first defense of the full heavyweight belt after his interim title was promoted to the full thing with the retirement of Jon Jones. Facing off with him is Ciryl Gane, Gane has twice fought for the title and is a former interim champion himself. The strawweight title is vacant since Zhang Weili is moving up to flyweight to fight Valentina Shevchenko, so now Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern are going to rematch for the vacant title. Umar Nurmagomedov is back against Mario Bautista as the two men jockey for position around the title, ditto Jailton Almeida and Alexander Volkov. And Aleksandar Rakic is at a crossroads style fight against rising force Azamat Murzakanov as well. On the prelims we’ve got Ikram Aliskerov vs. JunYong Park, and Mateusz Rebecki against Ludovit Klein which should be a barn burner. All in all it’s a solid card on paper, let’s hope the action lives up to the promise.

UFC 321 comes to the world from Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. We’ve got Jon Anik, Daniel Cormier, and Laura Sanko on commentary so hopefully Anik and Sanko can keep Cormier somewhat in check because that man gets less and less enjoyable each time it seems. John Gooden is doing the roving reporter bit while Bruch Buffer will handle the in cage stuff. We do have the newer rules in place and the regular 30 foot cage set up.

Jacqueline Amorim has gone 4-1 in the UFC and is on a four fight winning streak, she’s looking to break into the rankings or at least get a crack at a ranked opponent with another win. Mizuki Inoue has gone 2-1 in the UFC but most recently bested Hannah Goldy and now looks for her first UFC winning streak. Amorim is a pretty big favorite at -440 to Mizuki’s +340.

Strawweight Bout: Jaqueline Amorim (10-1, 116 lbs.) vs. Mizuki Inoue (15-6, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Amorim has two and a half inches of reach advantage. Mizuki with some range finding jabs early. Amorim reaches for a takedown but Mizuki avoids that and lands a right hand. Mizuki lands a right hand. Amorim keeps circling and showing a few kicks with the occasional stance switch. The pressure from Mikuki is making Amorim a little uncomfortable thus far. Right hand from Mizuki, then Amorim hits a single leg and gets to the back as Mizuki looks to scramble around. Body triangle from Amorim and she starts looking for the choke. Amorim gets to full mount and lands a few punches while trying to set up an arm triangle. Mizuki is able to spin into Amorim and get on top in full guard. Amorim has a body triangle from the bottom, she’s just kind of looking to control so far. A few short blows from Mizuki to the body and head. Short elbow from Mizuki then she postures up and drops pretty solid punches to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Mizuki

ROUND TWO: Mizuki back to showing long range punches. Both women land rights. Mizuki with a couple of rights as she backs Amorim up then she sprawls away from a poor double leg. Amorim grabs a clinch, Mizuki pushes things into the fence and lands a few knees. Shoulder strikes from Mizuki, she’s just looking to put damage on Amorim from any position. Mizuki lands a couple of uppercuts then she trips up Amorim and lands on top in half guard. Amorim looks for a leg attack, she’s getting close to a kneebar attempt. Mizuki is defending so far but Amorim sweeps and gets on top in 50/50 guard. Mizuki wrestles up on a single leg against the fence then moves to a clinch and Amorim jumps full guard. Some body to head punches from Mizuki as she pushes Amorim against the fence. Short elbows from Mizuki. Amorim looks for an armbar but Mizuki pulls her arm out and lands a few more punches to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Mizuki, 20-18 Mizuki overall

ROUND THREE: Mizuki back to pressure. Both women with some rights. Mizuki with a few jabs, she’s just trying to keep Amorim backing up. Amorim tries a single leg, easily defending and Mizuki lands a few punches. They tie up and Mizuki with knees and uppercuts to get Amorim to drop for full guard. A few body punches from Mizuki, then some lefts to the head. Eventually Mizuki stands free and forces Amorim to stand. Right from Mizuki but they clash heads and Mizuki is cut around the right eye. Amorim looks battered and tired. Right to the body from Mizuki, Amorim does not like those body blows. They tie up and Mizuki avoids a takedown then they break. Right to the body from Mizuki then she sprawls away from a takedown, Amorim tries to hold a single leg but she’s just stalling and Mizuki moves to a ride and lands punches as Amorim stands. Another bit of sprawl and brawl from Mizuki, Amorim pulls for guard but Mizuki moves to leg drag and lands punches. Amorim gets half guard but Mizuki lands hammer fists then moves to the ride as Amorim moves to turtle. Lefts from Mizuki as Amorim stands into a clinch. Mizuki with knees to the body and elbows. The round ends in the clinch with Mizuki still swinging elbows.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Mizuki, 30-27 Mizuki overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Mizuki Inoue via unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27 x2)

You could argue the first I guess if you overvalue positional control. No interview for Mizuki, also that cut is pretty gnarly now that it can be more easily seen.

Azat Maksum has gone just 1-2 in the UFC and is on a two fight losing streak, he also missed weight by a decent amount and now needs a win just to try and prove he still has something to offer the UFC. Mitch Raposo has gone 0-2 in the UFC dropping a pair of hard fought split decisions but he really needs to find that all important first UFC win here. After the weight miss the odds are firmly with Maksum at -470 to Raposo’s +360.

Flyweight Bout: Azat Maksum (15-2, 129 lbs.)* vs. Mitch Raposo (9-3, 125.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Maksum is two inches taller with five and a half inches of reach advantage. Quick right hand from Raposo. Some range finding kicks from Maksum. Raposo falls a little short with a few hooks. Jab from Raposo but Maksum shoulder rolls away from the right hand that follows. Calf kick from Maksum. Again Raposo falls short with a few power punches then Maksum lands a knee. Double leg from Maksum, well timed. Raposo quickly tries to wall walk, he’s up with Maksum on his back in the clinch though. German suplex from Maksum, Raposo quickly bounces up but he’s still got Maksum on his back. Now Maksum tries a cheese donkey, Raposo is able to get chest to chest off of that though. For the second time the ref warns them to do something with this position. They break without incident of their own accord. Raposo circles away to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Maksum but close

ROUND TWO: Body jab from Raposo to start the round. Both men land punches in close. Glancing right hand from Raposo then a leg kick. Knee from Maksum but he takes a bit of a left hand at the same time. Leg kick from Raposo. Raposo with a right hand. Raposo slips a hook and lands a couple of body shots. Maksum shows some jabs then thinks about a takedown but Raposo avoids it. Bit of a left hand from Raposo. Left hook from Raposo. Maksum tries a double leg, that hits the fence and he’s able to finish it. Raposo wall walks pretty quickly, Maksum then follows with a takedown. Bit of a triangle position for Raposo, he switches towards an omoplata but can’t get Maksum to move so he goes back to full guard. Raposo now looks to wall walk again, he’s eventually able to do so and they end the round in the clinch.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Raposo, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Maksum pressures forward right away and lands a right hand then hits a takedown. Raposo quickly wall walks and Maksum moves to the back standing. Maksum with a bit of a throw but he can’t get control and they wind up standing again. Raposo gets chest to chest then separates. They trade rights. Right to the body from Raposo then a bit of a left hand behind it. Raposo fights off a takedown. Maksum avoids a few hooks. Left hook from Raposo. Maksum shoots a single leg, they hit the fence then Raposo is able to defend and spin free. Right hand then a left from Raposo but he’s not following up, he’s constantly resetting. Maksum shoots, but gets turned over and he grabs the fence to try and switch position. The ref takes a point from Maksum, good call as that grab was blatant and caused a switch of position. They restart then clinch and wrestle until they hit the fence with Raposo pushing Maksum into the cage. Some punches from Raposo land, Maksum with an inside trip but Raposo bounces up into the clinch and that’s where the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Raposo after the point deduction but it was a close round, 29-27 Raposo overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Mitch Raposo via unanimous decision (30-26, 29-27 x2)

Raposo gets an interview, he jokes about the odds coming into the fight and mentions that the failed weight cut for Maksum meaning he needed to push the pace and up the activity. He also mentions 3 of the 5 fights he’s had in the UFC have been against guys who missed weight. To close he thanks God and gives love to his parents.

Hamdy Abdelwahab is coming off of his first loss in a truly terrible fight with Mohammed Usman, and now he’s trying to avoid his first losing streak. Chris Barnett has had an odd UFC career, he missed weight in his last win which was in 2022 and a string of fights falling out kept him out of action until about a year ago in 2024 then he suffered an injury in that loss and now he’s trying to finally get back on the winning side of things. The odds really like Abdelwahab at -575 to a +425 comeback on Barnett.

Heavyweight Bout: Hamdy Abdelwahab (4-1 1 NC, 265 lbs.) vs. Chris Barnett (23-9, 261 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Abdelwahab is five inches taller while Barnett has three inches of reach advantage and Barnett is also 7 years older at 39. They touch gloves, Barnett fighting southpaw. Body kicks are traded. Abdelwahab pushes into a clinch then with a bit of a lateral drop and gets on top. Some punches from the ride as Abdelwahab looks for control. Barnett is just hanging out, he finally stands with Abdelwahab on his back. Mat return from Abdelwahab and he moves to the ride again to land some punches. Barnett wall walks but he can’t get Abdelwahab to break his grip and create separation. They’re upright and Abdelwahab with a mat return to get to the ride again. Abdelwahab to the back and lands a few punches but Barnett wrestles up and they trade punches before breaking. Double leg from Abdelwahab into full mount. Barnett is bleeding now and Abdelwahab gets to the back again then fires punches. That blood is around the ear of Barnett, not sure what where specifically. Abdelwahab with an elbow to the back of the head, the ref breaks them and warns Abdelwahab about that. Seems the refs have heard the criticism from last week, and that was about as clearly an illegal blow as possible with that elbow to the back of the head. The doctor comes in to check on Barnett who is clearly hurting. The doctor checks on Barnett, Barnett is able to continue and the ref takes a point from Abdelwahab. The ref warned him about his targeting a few times so I’m OK with that. They touch gloves on the restart, Barnett now looking orthodox. Abdelwahab shoots into a clinch on the fence. Some knees from Barnett. Abdelwahab lands a few short rights. Elbow from Abdelwahab, then another as they break. Leg kick from Abdelwahab. Barnett avoids a takedown, Abdelwahab might be starting to fatigue now. Bit of a right from Abdelwahab. They clash but Barnett blocks takedown and lands a right hand. Abdelwahab avoids a right hand then lands a body kick. Bit of a leg kick from Barnett. Barnett is doing some stance switching now. Body kick then a right hand from Abdelwahab to close out the round.

SCORECARD: 9-8 Abdelwahab after the point deduction but that original 10-8 might be a touch generous on my end

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Jab from Barnett. Leg kick from Barnett, then another one. Abdelwahab pressures forward and lands a right hand to counter an inside leg kick. Barnett fights off a takedown against the fence, Abdelwahab keeps looking for a single leg but Barnett defends. Abdelwahab settles into a clinch then hits an outside reap to get on top. Punches from Abdelwahab as he’s got Barnett in the turtle. Barnett is able to regain his feet with Abdelwahab on his back and hits another mat return. A few punches from Abdelwahab, Barnett again builds to his knees and Abdelwahab pushes things over into half guard. Abdelwahab keeps up with the punches but his power is diminishing. Barnett builds up and Abdelwahab pulls him back over into a ride. Again Barnett looks to build up and gets to turtle, Abdelwahab keeps from the ride though and lands a few short blows. Barnett is able to stand with Abdelwahab on his back then separates. They just stare for the final seconds as both men are pretty tired.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Abdelwahab as his damage wasn’t there for a 10-8 this time, 19-17 Abdelwahab overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Bit of a front kick from Abdelwahab. Barnett misses a couple of punches. Inside leg kick from Barnett. They clash on kicks, that can’t have felt good. Barnett misses a wheel kick. Both men land power hand punches. Abdelwahab hits a single leg and gets back on top. Some punches from Abdelwahab, he’s got the ride again. Barnett tries a roll and Abdelwahab gets on top in side control. Right hand from Abdelwahab then he lets Barnett roll so Abdelwahab can get a rear waist lock again. Abdelwahab into the ride again and fires some punches. Barnett, who keeps losing his shorts, gets to turtle again and the ref stands them up. The lack of meaningful offense from Abdelwahab warranted that IMO. Both men poke some jabs then Abdelwahab tries a single leg but can’t finish it so they clinch on the fence. They trade a few short punches. Bit of a knee from Abdelwahab. Another knee from Abdelwahab. Outside trip from Abdelwahab and he’s back into the ride, Barnett keeps falling over his knee a little awkwardly when he’s tripped like that. Some short punches from Abdelwahab as he’s back in the ride. Barnett gets his base but Abdelwahab pushes him back to his knees. The round ends with Abdelwahab still on top.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Abdelwahab, could be 10-8 if you’re generous, 29-26 Abdelwahab overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Hamdy Abdelwahab via unanimous decision (29-26, 29-27 x2)

No interview for Abdelwahab after that borderline clown fiesta. Pretty poor fight all around.

Jose Miguel Delgado is on a seven fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC, he did miss weight for this fight which is never good but if he can keep his winning streak alive he’ll be pretty well established as a prospect in the division. Nathaniel Wood is on a two fight winning streak over Daniel Pineda and Morgan Charriere, he’s looking to make another push towards the rankings himself if he can get to three in a row here. Close one here, -155 on Delgado despite the weight miss to +130 for Wood which is a tempting value bet.

Featherweight Bout: Jose Delgado (10-1, 147 lbs.)* vs. Nathaniel Wood (21-6, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Delgado has five inches of height and reach advantage, plus he missed weight of course. They touch gloves to start things. Delgado doing stance switching as he circles. Both men probe with kicks then Wood lands a solid calf kick. Delgado winds up kicking Wood low so we’ve got a time out. Not a bad kick but one that did catch the groin, both men were just moving so no point comes off but Delgado has to be mindful of his weapons as they restart. Delgado with kicks, both men land low kicks then trade body to head hooks in close. Body kick from Delgado. Combination from Delgado, Wood’s chin holds up though. High kick from Delgado, Wood responds with a right hand. Delgado misses a head kick then lands a spinning back fist, Wood is down and Delgado gets on top in half guard. Some punches from Delgado, Wood is trying to move and is able to wrestle into octopus guard which gets Delgado to stop punching him. Wood is able to wall walk and Delgado lands elbows before they break. Right to the body from Delgado. Wood avoids a front kick. There’s a fair amount of blood coming from the bridge of Wood’s nose. Delgado with some jabs then a front kick. Short left from Wood. Wood with a calf kick. Knee from Delgado, Wood counters with a right hand that off balances Delgado. Some follow ups from Wood but Delgado circles and they then trade punches in close. Both men land hooks in close but Delgado’s ability to land getting into the pocket is giving him an edge. Right to the body from Delgado. Delgado with a right hand. Wood with an inside leg kick then a front kick. Both men feint away the final seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado as I think Wood avoided the 10-8

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Inside leg kick from Wood. Delgado looks to pressure forward and lands a calf kick. Jab from Delgado. Wood keeps probing with low kicks. Delgado with a combination of punches. Body jab then a right hand from Delgado, and he follows up with a knee. Wood lands a right hand. They clinch up and Wood pushes Delgado into the fence. Outside reap from Wood but Delgado bounces up with Wood now on his back. A few punches from Wood as they break. They trade jabs. Wood’s consistency is getting to Delgado at this point. Delgado tries an inside leg kick, we get another low blow though and so we’ve got another time out. This one looked like a legal kick on replay, the ref says he heard the cup get hit but Wood only takes 40 seconds or so anyway before we’re fighting again. Knee from Delgado in close. Left hand from Delgado. Wood lands a jab. Both men miss left hooks. Left hand from Wood. Right hand from Wood. One two from Delgado then he fires punches in close quarters. Bit of a combination from Wood. Right hand from Delgado. Delgado jabs the body then lands a knee as well. Wood with a calf kick, that’ll be the last relevant blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Wood but could go either way, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Wood with a calf kick to start the round. Jab then a knee from Delgado. Body kick from Delgado. They split a few jabs then Delgado partially lands a right hand. Another right hand from Delgado. Delgado with a left hand, Wood fires back with hooks in close. A few front kicks from Delgado then a right to the body. Left to the body from Delgado, Wood responds with a left hook then Delgado lands a body kick. Wood with a left hook. Knee from Delgado. Bit of a head kick from Delgado. Wood lands a jab. They trade left hooks in close. Jab from Wood. Delgado tries a takedown, Wood defends and they hit the fence then Delgado with a spinning elbow but Wood winds up on his back. They move down and Delgado removes a hook then gets on top of Wood and lands some strikes. Wood works to wall walk and eats an elbow then they break. Uppercut from Delgado. Wood lands an inside leg kick. Wood avoids a knee then lands a right hand. Calf kick from Wood. They both land punches in close. Knee from Delgado but Wood gets a takedown, Delgado tries a kimura but Wood gets on top in half guard to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado but another close one, 29-28 Delgado overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nathaniel Wood via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Can’t complain too much about that, Delgado definitely faded a bit down the stretch. Mic time for Wood and he puts over Delgado as a future champion. He says he’s got that dog in him and got to show it off given how tough this fight was. He says he’s worked on finishing but after that first round he figured he’d rather win a decision than lose given how tough Delgado was.

Valter Walker is on a three fight winning streak, all of them heel hook submissions, and now he’s looking to defend his ranking as well as earn a shot at someone ranked above him with another win. Louie Sutherland brings a four fight winning streak into his UFC debut and he could make a decent impact with a win over a ranked opponent. Unsurprisingly the odds like Walker at -395 to a +310 payout on Sutherland.

Heavyweight Bout: Louie Sutherland (10-3, 264.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Valter Walker (14-1, 244 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Walker is three inches taller with two and a half inches of reach advantage. Some feinting from both men as they circle. Walker lands a calf kick, Sutherland returns a harder one. Right hand from Sutherland but Walker gets a takedown against the fence. Sutherland works to wall walk, Walker lands punches then wraps a leg and drops back then gets a heel hook to force the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Valter Walker via Submission, heel hook, at 1:24 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Walker for his work. That’s also 4 heel hooks in a row for Walker which is a record for consecutive heel hooks in the UFC and ties Rousimar Palhares for most heel hooks in total. Mic time for Walker, he moves between Portuguese and moderate English then says he’s taken two heels for Brazil and two for Russia since he’s trained in both countries. He talks us through the finish and notes he’s fine with guys who try to roll for defense on the heel hook. About the future he says he wants to fight Hamdy Abdelwahab and insults his earlier performance against “chocolate Peppa Pig”. OK then, odd call out as I think he should be looking up in the ranks not down.

VALTER WALKER WITH HIS 4TH STRAIGHT HEEL HOOK SUBMISSION 🤯

Watch #UFC321 prelims on FX, Disney+ and the ESPN App. pic.twitter.com/gUZVi7lpIi

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) October 25, 2025

Mateusz Rebecki has gone 4-2 in the UFC but he’s just 2-2 in his last four, most recently he lost to Chris Duncan and now he’s trying to avoid his first losing streak. Ludovit Klein just had a seven fight unbeaten streak broken by Mateusz Gamrot, now he’s back in action and looking to avoid his first losing streak at lightweight. Very close one, -125 on Klein to +105 for Rebecki.

Lightweight Bout: Ludovit Klein (23-5-1, 156 lbs.) vs. Mateusz Rebecki (20-3, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Klein has a significant six and a half inches of reach advantage. Both men fight southpaw and they touch gloves to get things going. Rebecki with a bit of a right hook. Klein keeps circling and both men land punches in close. Rebecki’s nose is already bothered. One two from Klein wobbles Rebecki for a second but he recovers and fires back. More jabs from Klein, he wants to stay long for the most part. Bit of a left from Rebecki. Klein with a jab, Rebecki lands an inside calf kick. Klein lands a left hand. Again some jabs from Klein. Rebecki eats a knee but pushes into a clinch and starts looking for a takedown. Klein defends but Rebecki lands a left hand. Eventually they break as Klein defends another single leg. Right hook from Rebecki. Klein with some more jabs, he’s also doing a good job of catching Rebecki coming in with a right hook. Again that check right hook from Klein lands as Rebecki tries to charge in. Uppercut from Klein then a bit of a high kick as they’re exchanging. Klein with a calf kick. Rebecki lands an inside leg kick but Rebecki is cut around the left eye or cheek. Both men fire left hands. A Klein jab will pretty much close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein

ROUND TWO: Rebecki gets back on forward pressure but he’s still getting hit coming in. Both men land punches in close. Right hook from Klein wobbles Rebecki again. Klein shows high kicks that get blocked, then a bit of a knee lands for him. One two from Klein. OK that cut on Rebecki is on the left cheek under the eye so not likely to be a fight stopper. Rebecki tries a double leg, Klein is able to defend and they hit the fence. Klein fights off a single leg, Rebecki keeps with it and trips Klein down but Klein fires elbows then stands and they reset. Rebecki is cut again from some of those elbows I think. Left hand from Klein. Rebecki with a left to the body then a right hook. There’s a cut over the left eye now of Rebecki I think, that man just gets damaged in each fight. Klein with a body kick then a right hook that wobbles Rebecki again. Rebecki again recovers pretty quickly but this isn’t sustainable for him. Klein with a front kick. Combination from Klein. Inside leg kick from Rebecki. Jumping knee from Rebecki partially lands. Both men with a few punches in close. Partial head kick from Klein. Bit of a right hand from Rebecki to counter a knee. A Klein front kick closes the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein, 20-18 Klein overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Short right hook form Klein lands. Bit of a high kick from Klein as they trade. Rebecki keeps pressing forward, despite the damage he’s still game. They clinch up and Rebecki lands a knee before they break. A few jabs from Klein. Rebecki with a left hand. Klein lands another right hook. Jab from Klein. Rebecki pushes into a clinch on the fence. Takedown from Rebecki, Klein scrambles up but Rebecki is on his back. Bit of a mat return from Rebecki and he lands some strikes from the ride position. Klein rolls to his back and fires elbows but Rebecki keeps punching as he gets half guard. Short elbows from Rebecki land. Klein fires some elbows of his own and Rebecki is cut yet again, that man just wears a ton of damage. Rebecki passes to side control but he’s visibly bleeding. Klein blocks a mounted crucifix. Klein bucks and gets to half guard. Rebecki keeps trying to fire offense and they trade elbows again. Rebecki just wont stop throwing. Klein fires elbows from his back but he’s just kind of holding on and running out the clock. Klein looks to wrestle up as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Rebecki, 28-28 DRAW overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ludovit Klein via majority decision (29-28, 28-28, 28-27)

No issues with the draw, or frankly with a 10-8 for Klein in the second as he did a ton of good work that round and Rebecki’s offense was least effective that one. Apparently Klein suffered a right ankle or foot injury and that’s what caused the way he fought at the end of the third round. Mic time for Klein and he says he broke his ankle in the third round and apologizes for how that went in the last round. He’s very happy to have won overall. He knew he won the first two rounds and had a good performance but the injury ruined his third round. We see a replay of the ankle of Klein getting messed up on a takedown in the third. He is grateful for the experience of the fight and sends love to his girlfriend and young child.

How Klein broke his ankle.
No pain, no gain!#UFC321 pic.twitter.com/t6NmSG5tp5

— Mosheki Daniel (@MoshekiD) October 25, 2025

Ikram Aliskerov has gone 3-1 in the UFC, only losing to Robert Whittaker, and most recently besting Andre Muniz. Aliskerov now looks for another win and to rebuild himself as a viable contender in the division. JunYong Park has gone 9-3 in the UFC, certainly respectable, and is riding a two fight winning streak. Park is after another win here which could push him to fight some ranked opponents going forward. Aliskerov is the favorite at -230 to Park’s +190.

Middleweight Bout: Ikram Aliskerov (16-2, 185.5 lbs.) vs. JunYong Park (19-6, 185.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Aliskerov is two inches taller with three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get going. Both men with some range finding kicks early. Bit of a kick to the groin of Park, we get a little time out but it doesn’t last long as Park recovers. Calf kick from Park. Aliskerov starts showing the jab now. Bit of a right from Park. Some front kicks now from Aliskerov. Calf kick from Park again, that one might have been partially checked. Knee from Aliskerov in close. Aliskerov jabs the body then fires a slightly smothered high kick. One two from Park. A few jabs from Aliskerov and he avoids a left hook. Left to the body then a right hand from Park. Aliskerov jabs up and down but Park’s steady pressure is starting to pay off. Bit of a right from Park. One two from Aliskerov. Aliskerov hits a takedown, Park moves to the turtle and Aliskerov holds a waist lock and moves to the ride. Park is up and gets free fairly quickly so they reset. They split jabs. Another body jab from Aliskerov then a takedown. Park wall walks then gets free again. The ref warns Aliskerov about shorts grabbing, this ref is on it man he’s the one who took the point from Maksum earlier. Aliskerov shows a few kicks to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Aliskerov

ROUND TWO: Right hand from Park, he’s back on moving forward slow and steady. Aliskerov with some kicks at range. Park with a left to the body then a right hand. Another right from Park. Aliskerov slips throwing a knee but regains his feet and they resume striking. Both men land left hooks in close. Bit of a high kick from Aliskerov then a glancing right hand. Body jab from Aliskerov then an inside leg kick. A front kick from Aliskerov catches the groin of Park so we’ve got a time out. Replay shows the heel definitely went into the groin. No point from Aliskerov but the ref tells him the next one probably will get one. Park doesn’t take too long again then we’re back to fighting. Both men open up in close with punches. Park jabs the body. Bit of a right hand from Park. Park with jabs then Aliskerov hits a double leg against the fence. Aliskerov mounts the legs but Park moves to his knees. A few punches from Aliskerov land, Park fires a couple of elbows. They keep trading strikes on their knees then Park is able to wall walk into a clinch but Aliskerov pushes free. Park moves forward again, he grabs a front headlock to block a takedown and lands some knees before Aliskerov gets free. Left to the body from Park. They trade punches in close then clinch up as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Aliskerov but a close one, 20-18 Aliskerov overall

ROUND THREE: Park gets back to pressure and working the jab. Body jab from Park. Aliskerov with a left hand but he’s circling. Park punches into a clinch and fires a spinning elbow before they break. Right away Park gets back on pressure and jabs the body. Aliskerov clinches up, he eats a few knees before Park spins free though. Park just doesn’t stop and lands punches as he’s got Aliskerov against the fence. Double leg from Aliskerov and he moves to the ride again. Park fights up with Aliskerov on his back, then turns into him and lands punches as they break. Left to the body from Park. Aliskerov with a knee. Park lands a right hand. Left to the body from Park. Aliskerov avoids a spinning attack. Double leg from Aliskerov into half guard. Aliskerov gets the back and locks up a body triangle. Park isn’t leg fighting which you need to do to fight the body triangle. A few punches from Aliskerov as he’s trying to open up a choke but he wont find one before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Aliskerov, 30-27 Aliskerov overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ikram Aliskerov via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

No interview for Aliskerov, he definitely has some work to do if he’s getting another step up in class next as that cardio was a problem.

Nasrat Haqparast is on a five fight winning streak, though the last two have been contentious split decisions, and he’s looking to take a step towards ranked opponents with another win here. Quillan Salkilld is on a nine fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC, he’s getting a decent step up in class here to the veteran Haqparast but a win would push him towards a higher level of notoriety and opponents. Very close here, -115 on Salkilld to -105 for Haqparast.

Lightweight Bout: Nasrat Haqparast (18-5, 156 lbs.) vs. Quillan Salkilld (9-1, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Salkilld is two inches taller with three inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Haqparast. Both men with some range finding, Salkilld tries a takedown but Haqparast defends. Left hand from Haqparast. Both men look for power hand punches. Left to the body from Haqparast. Bit of a left hand from Haqparast. Salkilld with a front kick then a body kick. Right hand from Salkilld then he thinks about a takedown but Haqparast avoids that. Left to the body from Haqparast. Salkilld avoids a few punches then lands a front kick. Bit of a left hand from Haqparast. A head kick from Salkilld ENDS Haqparast who’s leg starts spasming on the mat.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Quillan Salkilld via KO, head kick, at 2:30 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Salkilld for his work. Haqparast is still down on the mat on his back as the announcement was read. Mic time for Salkilld, he’s happy to get the win and mentions a hard weight cut doing this on short notice and then asks for a bonus. Seems likely given the card so far. He talks us through the finish and mentions using the power side in the open stance matchup. Asked about the future he wants ranked opponents, seems a tad unlikely but appreciate him putting that out there.

QUILLAN SALKILLD WITH A WILD HEAD-KICK KO 😱 #UFC321 pic.twitter.com/I2vkgILXKT

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 25, 2025

That’s it for preliminary action, onto PPV for the main card.

Aleksandar Rakic had some momentum back in 2019-2021 but since suffering a knee injury in a loss to Jan Blachowicz he’s faced setback after setback. Currently Rakic is on a three fight losing streak, the aforementioned Blachowicz loss as well as fights with Jiri Prochazka and Magomed Ankalaev so he’s only lost to quality opponents but a fourth loss here would likely end his title aspirations even in a division as comically bad as light heavyweight. Azamat Murzakanov is undefeated including five wins in the UFC, he’s taking a step up in class here as far as the rankings go but a win would put him pretty close the title picture given the state of the division. Another close fight here, -115 on Rakic to -105 on Murzakanov.

Light Heavyweight Bout: #10 Azamat Murzakanov (15-0, 205.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Aleksandar Rakic (14-5, 205 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Rakic is a significant six inches taller with a similar six and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves, Murzakanov fighting southpaw. A few kicks from Rakic, just range finding so far. Murzakanov is looking to cross check the power kicks of Rakic. A few lefts from Murzakanov fall short. Bit of a high kick from Rakic. Inside leg kick from Rakic. Murzakanov avoids a single leg but does get pushed into the fence. They settle into a clinch then break without any real incident. Left to the body from Murzakanov. Rakic lands a front kick then tries another single leg, they tie up and wind up wrestling briefly then resetting on the feet. Body jab from Murzakanov. An intercepting right hand from Murzakanov slumps Rakic and that’ll basically prompt the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Azamat Murzakanov via TKO, punches, at 3:11 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Murzakanov for his work. Mic time for Murzakanov and the translator, he says he told everyone not to doubt him and is happy to get the finish then thanks everyone who came out, the UFC, and Rakic for taking the fight. He feels he’ll be fighting for the belt, given the state of the division that’s possible. Asked about the future he wants a number one contender fight but doesn’t list a name.

Aleksandar Rakic had enough after tasting Azamat Murzakanov's power jab 💀 #UFC321 pic.twitter.com/xO1sbrMPWK

— Shakiel Mahjouri (@Shak_Fu) October 25, 2025

Alexander Volkov just had a four fight winning streak broken in a controversial split decision loss to Ciryl Gane, now he’s trying to maintain his position and potential title aspirations by avoiding his first losing streak since 2015. Jailton Almeida has gone 8-1 in the UFC and is currently on a two fight winning streak, he’s getting a step up in class here but a win over Volkov would be the best of his career and could push him close to the title picture. The odds like volkov at -190 while that +160 payout on Almeida has be a tempting value bet.

Heavyweight Bout: #5 Jailton Almeida (22-3, 237 lbs.) vs. #2 Alexander Volkov (38-11, 261.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Volkov is four inches taller with an inch of reach advantage. Immediate single leg from Almeida and he gets Volkov down into half guard after a bit. A few elbows from Volkov, a couple of those were towards the back of the head and the ref gets on him about that. Not much going on here, Almeida tries to line up an arm triangle attack but loses it. Volkov looks to build up to a hip but Almeida gets him back flat. Sweep from Volkov, the size difference helped there, and he fires a few short blows as they’re both seated. Almeida tries to wrap a leg but Volkov starts elbowing him from half guard. Volkov stands and lands some strikes, Almeida tries to roll with a leg but Volkov stays on top and keeps striking. A few more elbows from Volkov, Almeida is on a hip but he’s kind of just stuck there as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Volkov

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the round. Right hand from Almeida. Volkov returns it then Almeida hits a single leg into full guard. Almeida lands a few short blows then passes to half guard. Not much going on here, they trade a few hammer fists is all. Eventually Almeida gets to the ride as Volkov moves to turtle. Volkov stands, mat return from Almeida and he gets a hook in. Almeida pulls things back to a ride position and Volkov rolls to get half guard. Full mount for Almeida briefly but Volkov hip escapes and gets full guard. A few short elbows from Volkov off his back and the ref then stands them up. Fair reset. Quick double leg from Almeida into full guard again. Almeida with a few punches then he moves to half guard. Volkov attacks a kimura, that seems unlikely but he’s got the double wrist lock secured. Things look to stall out a bit here and that’s where the round will end.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Almeida, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Volkov stalks forward and lands a right hand. High crotch from Almeida, but Volkov wrestles back up immediately and pushes Almeida into the fence. Knees from Volkov in the clinch. Elbow from Volkov, Almeida tries a double leg and it takes a second effort but he’s able to get it into full guard. Some punches from Volkov, Almeida is just kind of hanging out. Some weak strikes go back and forth, Almeida isn’t passing and Volkov is content to wait for a stand up it seems. Volkov tries a triangle but Almeida defends and Volkov keeps full guard. Eventually Almeida is able to pass to half guard. Volkov moves to his knees, Almeida to the ride but he’s still not doing much. Both hooks in for Almeida now at least. Volkov breaks the hooks and gets half guard yet again. The ref stands them up with 30 seconds left. Immediate takedown from Almeida to just waste time. Volkov looks to wall walk and that’s where the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Volkov as Almeida didn’t do enough damage to my mind, 29-28 Volkov overall but likely goes to Almeida

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alexander Volkov via split decision via split decision (28-29, 29-28 x2)

Color me surprised, but Almeida’s lack of offensive potency has been a problem for a while and Volkov was due a close decision going his way. Mic time for Volkov, he feels a little better now but knows the fight was close and Almeida was good at smothering him. He says he’s the next in line for a shot and while this fight wasn’t great he is the next in line.

Umar Nurmagomedov is coming off of his first loss when he failed to get the title from Merab Dvalishvili back in January, he remains one of the more compelling challengers for Dvalishvili though and another win here could put him right back into the title picture. Mario Bautista has gone 10-2 in the UFC and is on an eight fight winning streak, most recently he beat Jose Aldo controversially then just kind of styled on Patchy Mix and if he can get another win here it could be Bautista who’s in the title picture given how much of the division has already lost at least once to the champ. Nurmagomedov is the biggest favorite on the card at -625 while that +455 comeback on Bautista has to be making a few bookies sweat.

Bantamweight Bout: #9 Mario Bautista (16-2, 135.5 lbs.) vs. #2 Umar Nurmagomedov (18-1, 136 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Bautista is an inch taller but the reach is identical. They touch gloves to get things going. Bautista looks to pressure, he fires a body kick but Nurmagomedov catches it and gets to the back then hits a mat return. Bautista is able to wall walk, he does a lot of stance switching by the way, and Nurmagomedov hits a mat return. Nurmagomedov looks for the back but Bautista grabs a toe hold and really cranks that sucker but Nurmagomedov guts through it and winds up in side control. Some short elbows from Nurmagomedov land. Bautista looks to wrestle up and gets full guard. Nurmagomedov lands some punches. Nurmagomedov passes to side control and lands a few elbows. Bautista bridges off the fence and looks to stand, Nurmagomedov jumps to the backpack position though. They sag back to the mat as Nurmagomedov attacked Bautista’s posting hand. Nurmagomedov fishes for a choke but Bautista easily hand fights and that’s where the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Nurmagomedov

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Leg kick from Bautista. Nurmagomedov is switching his stance a bit now too. High knee from Bautista drops Nurmagomedov for a second. Another knee from Bautista to the body and he avoids a takedown. Left hand from Nurmagomedov partially lands. Nurmagomedov lands a left hand then hits an inside trip in close to get on top in full guard. Pretty quick pass from Nurmagomedov into half guard. Bautista gives up his back trying to get up and Nurmagomedov gets the body triangle again. Some nice work from Bautista to try and angle his body, he’s able to break the triangle and stand with Nurmagomedov on his back still. Nurmagomedov tries a takedown but Bautista hits a switch and separates. Both men land punches. Both men miss power hand punches. Bautista tries a takedown then lands in close before they break. Takedown from Nurmagomedov into half guard again. Nurmagomedov moves to side control. Bautista is trying to scramble but Nurmagomedov is working more for control now. Nurmagomedov gets the back again with one hook in but Nurmagomedov scrambles through and wrestles up then free. Body kick from Nurmagomedov, he’s exclusively southpaw now. Nurmagomedov with a left hand. Bautista lands a one two. Both men block high kicks. Front kick from Bautista and that’ll close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Bautista but a close one, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Bautista gets back to pressure. They trade body kicks. Bit of a trade of power hand blows. Nurmagomedov lands a left hand. Takedown from Nurmagomedov but Bautista bounces up right away and Nurmagomedov works from the rear waist lock. A few mat returns from Nurmagomedov as they move to the fence. Bautista breaks the grip of Nurmagomedov and turns into him, Nurmagomedov lands a knee then looks for a single leg and hits it. Quick scramble from Bautista and he’s back up then they separate. Double leg from Nurmagomedov but Bautista quickly bounces up with Nurmagomedov on his back again. Mat return from Nurmagomedov into side control. Some knees from Nurmagomedov and he’s looking for mount, Bautista blocks that and moves to his knees then blocks a back take but he can’t get positionally ahead of Nurmagomedov. They wrestle up, Nurmagomedov with a mat return but Bautista is up again. Bautista tries to limp leg away but Nurmagomedov keeps with him and hits a mat return but Bautista bounces up again. It takes a bit but Bautista does break the grip and turn into Nurmagomedov again. They break then trade in close for the final couple seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Nurmagomedov, 29-28 Nurmagomedov overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Umar Nurmagomedov via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Mic time for Nurmagomedov and the translator, he feels he underestimated Bautista a bit and admits Bautista’s defense caught him off guard. He is happy with the win, thanks his team and everyone here, then some more sucking up follows before he says you have to just be thankful in life. Asked about the future he says he’ll be ready for the title fight, doesn’t matter if it’s Dvalishvili or Yan.

Virna Jandiroba is on a five fight winning streak coming into her first title shot, and at 37 it’s not too big a stretch to imagine that a loss here might be her last one as well. Jandiroba is also trying to avenge a 2020 loss to her opponent tonight as well as claim the title. Mackenzie Dern is also getting her first title shot here, she’s been close many times but always seemed to stumble at some crucial juncture and now really needs to prove she’s championship caliber by claiming the vacant title. The odds lean towards Dern at -150 to Jandiroba’s +125.

Women’s Flyweight Title Bout: #1 Virna Jandiroba (22-3, 115 lbs.) vs. #5 Mackenzie Dern (15-5, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Dern is an inch taller while Jandiroba has an inch of reach advantage. Both women probe a bit with the lead hand. Leg kick from Dern. Some stance switching from Jandiroba. Dern lands another leg kick then a bit of a blitz attack. Jandiroba shows a few kicks of her own. Dern with a body kick. Both women land punches in close then they tie up just long enough for Dern to land a knee then they break. Bit of a right from Dern. They trade rights. Dern with a leg kick then she avoids a takedown. Jab from Dern. Jandiroba lands a right hand. Double leg from Jandiroba and she gets Dern down near the fence. Dern gets full guard and they trade some punches. Eventually Dern kicks Jandiroba off and stands. Jandiroba moves into a clinch and they hit the fence. Dern gets Jandiroba on the fence and fires a knee. They break as Jandiroba misses a right hand. Bit of a right from Dern then a solid jab. Leg kick from Dern, Jandiroba hits a takedown. Dern is sitting in space, Jandiroba just kind of holding her before they trade punches and Dern stands into a clinch. They jockey for position on the fence and trade some knees there. Some rights and uppercuts from Dern then they trade knees as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dern

ROUND TWO: Dern opens with a few punches including a pretty decent right hand. Dern pushes into a clinch on the fence and starts looking for her own takedown. A few knees go back and forth then they separate. Right hand from Dern then a bit of a left hook behind it. Both women fire punches then Dern lands a body kick. Jandiroba with a few punches, they fall a little short. They trade rights. Bit of a right from Dern then a left hook behind it. Jandiroba fails a takedown. Double leg from Jandiroba into Dern’s guard. Dern with some elbows from her back. A few hammer fists from Jandiroba. Dern kicks Jandiroba off and regains her feet. Some punches go back and forth but nothing serious lands. Right hand from Dern. Jandiroba has swelling around her right eye from all the jabs. Dern with a throw to counter a takedown, but Jandiroba rolls through and gets on top in half guard. Elbows from Dern, she’s just always trying to do damage thus far. Jandiroba with some hammer fists. Dern looks to get her half guard more in play as they trade some arm punches. Jandiroba stands then eats a couple of up kicks. Dern stands and Jandiroba lands a left hand as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dern but could go either way, 20-18 Dern overall

ROUND THREE: Dern shows the jab again as the round starts. Right hand from Dern and Jandiroba misses her counter. Jandiroba lands a right hand to counter a body kick and gets on top in full guard. Elbows from Dern then she kicks Jandiroba off and they reset on the feet. Jab from Dern. Glancing right from Dern. Jandiroba fails a takedown. Dern pushes into a clinch and starts throwing some knees to the body against the fence. Jandiroba fights off a single leg but can’t get off the fence yet. Knees from Dern then they break. Jandiroba tries a single leg but Dern defends. Both women land in close then Dern lands a leg kick. Bit of a left from Dern, then she blocks a takedown and clinches Jandiroba to the fence. They break without incident. Both women land punches in the pocket. Jandiroba tries a single leg, Dern defends against the fence though. Eventually Jandiroba finishes the takedown into full guard. Dern immediately starts throwing elbows. Jandiroba is just holding top position so far. Eventually Jandiroba stands, takes an up kick then Dern stands and they trade rights just before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dern, 30-27 Dern overall

ROUND FOUR: The crowd are singing for Tom Aspinall, to let you know how much they care about this fight. Both women probe with jabs. Inside leg kick from Dern then they trade in close. A few jabs from Dern land. Right hand from Dern. Dern with a body kick then a leg kick. Jandiroba with a left hand in close. Bit of a right from Dern. Dern hits the body. Bit of a right hand from Jandiroba, Dern returns it and follows with a left. Front kick from Dern. Jandiroba lands a leg kick. Dern swings a couple of rights then tries a double leg against the fence but Jandiroba defends. They trade knees in a clinch. Some body blows from Dern then a knee. They break without incident. They both miss some punches. Jandiroba lands a left hand. Dern lands a right hand. Body kick from Dern. Jandiroba tries a single leg but Dern fights that off and lands a jab. Leg kick from Dern. Jandiroba seems to be slowing a bit. Double leg from Jandiroba but she doesn’t want to engage and the ref stands Dern back up. A few jabs from Jandiroba. Takedown from Dern into guard. Dern passes to half guard pretty easily and starts looking to land elbows. Jandiroba is controlling posture so far. Dern postures up and lands a few punches to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dern, 40-36 Dern overall

ROUND FIVE: Both women come out jabbing for the final round. Body kick from Dern. They trade leg kicks, Jandiroba lands a right hand then Dern responds with a combination. Dern with a right hand. Jandiroba grabs a single leg and gets on top in butterfly guard. Dern with some strikes from her seat then she gets up easily. Jandiroba tries another takedown, this one hits the fence. They fight for position along the cage. A few punches land for Jandiroba. Dern frames and lands a high knee. A few more knees go back and forth then Dern spins free. Jab from Dern. Another jab from Dern. Jandiroba misses a few punches then Dern lands a one two. Takedown from Jandiroba but Dern quickly gets her guard working up high. Jandiroba avoids an armbar attack. Dern fires elbows from her back. Jandiroba stands out of the guard, Dern kicks the knees a few times then the ref stands them up. Jandiroba misses a few punches. Dern falls short on a combination. Front kick from Dern. Dern with a right to the body. Jandiroba lands a right hand. Dern avoids a few strikes. They split jabs. Dern with a leg kick. Jandiroba is bleeding from the bridge of the nose now it looks like. Dern avoids a high kick. Takedown from Dern into guard, she drops hammer fists as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dern, 50-45 Dern overall but I’m likely wrong about the second

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – and NEW UFC Strawweight Champion Mackenzie Dern via unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47 x2)

I’m not sure about the second round Jandiroba might have won but a couple of the rounds were close enough overall. Mic time for the new champion, she mentions being the first fighter to win ADCC, BJJ Worlds, and the UFC title then sends love to her daughter in the crowd. This wasn’t quite the fight she expected as Jandirboa was tough but is glad that judges are starting to recognize stalling vs. working on the ground. She talks through a few highlights then hugs her daughter who is finally brought into the cage, she puts the belt on her daughter and that gets a pop.

Ciryl Gane is a former interim champion and has twice before fought for the full title, losing a close decision to Francis Ngannou then getting bulldozed by Jon Jones. Gane does have a two fight winning streak coming into this fight but another title loss would likely be the end of his championship aspirations because very few people get four chances without ever winning any of them. Tom Aspinall won the interim title in 2023 and defended it last year, then Jon Jones retired and now he’s looking to begin building his legacy as the full heavyweight champion. Given the state of the division and the fact that Aspinall has never even seen a third round he could be poised for a serious run but needs to get that going with his first full title defense. Aspinall is a pretty big favorite at -350 to Gane’s +280.

Heavyweight Title Bout: (c) Tom Aspinall (15-3, 255 lbs.) vs. #1 Ciryl Gane (13-2, 247.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Aspinall is an inch taller while Gane has three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves, Gane opens southpaw but will switch if he feels like it. Both men land some punches but nothing serious. Left hand from Gane. Bit of a one two from Aspinall. Aspinall fires a head kick then lands a left hand. Gane misses a hook then blocks a couple of punches. They both probe with side kicks to the leg. Aspinall pushes towards a clinch but Gane disengages. Bit of a high kick from Aspinall. Aspinall’s nose is bleeding, not badly but it’s there. Gane starts showing the jab now. Bit of a counter right from Aspinall then he sort of lands a spinning kick to the back. Gane keeps circling, both men are pretty light on their feet so far. Leg kick from Aspinall out of a brief southpaw stance. Jab from Gane then an inside leg kick. Another jab then inside leg kick from Gane, he’s fighting very well thus far. Bit of a right from Aspinall. Another jab from Gane. Calf kick from Aspinall. Bit of a right from Aspinall. Aspinall takes an eye poke so we’ve got a time out. Replay shows there was some finger action to the eyes as Gane was firing a body kick. The doctor comes in to check on Aspinall, he does have 5 minutes to recover if he needs them. That right eye of Aspinall just seems like it’s spasming, the doctor says the structure of the eye is OK based on seeing it prior so the doc isn’t going to medically stop it right now but Aspinall is struggling to see. After the 4 minute mark Aspinall still can’t see and the ref waves it off.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – No Contest, accidental eye poke to Aspinall, at 4:35 of Round 1

Really unfortunate ending there, Aspinall has been out of action for a bit and Gane has blown his third shot at the belt so getting a fourth is deeply unlikely.

Aspinall gets some mic time, he gets annoyed at the boos and says he can’t see what else can he do. He says this is bullshit and the fight was just getting going, he’s pissed off. He mentions he can’t get his right eye open and sees the replay and gets more annoyed. Cormier rightly gets out of that interview and lets him go.

Gane gets an interview as well, he’s booed pretty badly and he’s very sorry about what happened and apologizes to Aspinall. He worked hard for this fight and is gutted. Asked about what he can happen next he isn’t sure what the UFC will do but he’ll be ready.

This is actually the first UFC title fight to be decaled a No Contest in the cage. The last one to be changed to a No Contest was I think Jon Jones vs. Daniel Cormier 2, but it’s a rarity as I think the other one that comes to mind was Sean Sherk and Hermes Franca way back in the day. OK, after checking Sherk and Franca did not get changed to a No Contest as they both failed drug tests but Sherk was stripped of the belt.

Well on that disappointing note UFC 321 comes to a close. For a PPV that had some very good potential it kind of under performed in a lot of ways. The No Contest main event, fairly underwhelming co-main, and Volkov vs. Almeida being pretty poor the main card turned out to be forgettable. But we’ll unpack all the fallout on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast tomorrow anyway, plus look ahead to UFC on ESPN+ 121 when the UFC goes back to the warehouse next week. I’ll be back for that event and I hope you will be too. Until then thank you for reading, stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.