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411’s UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos Report 3.14.26

March 14, 2026 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Vallejos Image Credit: UFC

MAIN CARD (Paramount+, 8 p.m. ET)
#11 Josh Emmett (146 lbs.) vs. #14 Kevin Vallejos (145.5 lbs.)
#5 Amanda Lemos (116 lbs.) vs. #8 Gillian Robertson (116 lbs.)
Jose Delgado (146 lbs.) vs. Andre Fili (145.5 lbs.)
Harry Hardwick (145.5 lbs.) vs. Marwan Rahiki (146 lbs.)
Ion Cutelaba (205 lbs.) vs. Oumar Sy (205.5 lbs.)
#14 Charles Johnson (126 lbs.) vs. #15 Bruno Silva (126 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (Paramount+, 5 p.m. ET)
Chris Curtis (170.5 lbs.) vs. Myktybek Orolbai (170.5 lbs.)
Steven Asplund (265.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Vitor Petrino (248.5 lbs.)
Elijah Smith (136 lbs.) vs. SuYoung You (136 lbs.)
Bolaji Oki (155.5 lbs.) vs. Manoel Sousa (155 lbs.)
Eryk Anders (186 lbs.) vs. Brad Tavares (186 lbs.)
Bia Mesquita (135.5 lbs.) vs. Montserrat Rendon (135 lbs.)
Luan Lacerda (136 lbs.) vs. Hecher Sosa (135.5 lbs.)
Sam Hughes (116 lbs.) vs. Piera Rodriguez (116 lbs.)

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host. The UFC is back in the warehouse after a fairly disappointing UFC 326, but there are a few bright spots on this card. In the main event Josh Emmett tries to defend his ranking against surging Kevin Vallejos, one of the breakout fighters from last year. Amanda Lemos vs. Gillian Robertson has some loose title implications, Jose Delgado vs. Andre Fili should be fun, Charles Johnson vs. Bruno Silva has potential and frankly my most anticipated bout is Chris Curtis vs. Myktybek Orolbai. Also Elijah Smith vs. SuYoung You, Bia Mesquita’s second UFC fight, and Hecher Sosa stepping in on short notice all command a little attention as well. There’s some absolute dross as well, Cutelaba vs. Sy, Steve Asplund vs. Vitor Petrino, and Eryk Anders vs. Brand Tavares are all fights I don’t think we need to see. That said let’s hope for some good action.

UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos comes to the world from the Meta Apex arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. We’ve got Brendan Fitzgerald, Michael Bisping, and Dominick Cruz on commentary with Heidi Androl as our roving reporter and Joe Martinez handling announcing. Keep in mind the smaller 25 foot Octagon for this venue, and that Nevada has pretty liberal use of instant replay.

Sam Hughes has gone just 6-5 in the UFC but she’s on a three fight winning streak and most recently got her first finish since 2022, if she can get to four in a row here it’ll signify she’s really found her stride in the UFC. Piera Rodriguez has gone 4-2 in the UFC and is on a two fight winning streak, she’s likewise trying to prove her consistency and make a case for moving up in class next. Fairly close fight here, -150 on Rodriguez while a +125 payout on Hughes might be a decent value bet.

Strawweight Bout: Sam Hughes (11-6, 116 lbs.) vs. Piera Rodriguez (11-2, 116 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Hughes is two inches taller with half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Both women land punches in close. Rodriguez with an inside leg kick, she’s throwing well in combination so far. Bit of a right hand from Rodriguez. Both women land calf kicks. Left hook from Rodriguez then she tries a takedown but that stalls out against the fence. They trade some knees before Hughes slips free. Rodriguez lands a right hand but took an eye poke so we’ve got a time out. The doctor comes in to check on things, Rodriguez seems fine and we’re back to fighting in less than a minute. Some stance switching from Rodriguez now, Hughes keeps chopping at her with calf kicks. Left hands go back and forth. Rodriguez tries a takedown again, again that stalls on the fence. They trade elbows before breaking. Again they trade leg kicks then Hughes lands a left to the body. Right hand then a left hook from Hughes. Rodriguez lands a right of her own. Solid right hand from Rodriguez then she tries a single leg, Hughes defends as they hit the fence though. They break then Hughes pushes into a clinch and slips to the back. Hughes comes back around looking for a double leg but isn’t quite low enough so they wind up chest to chest again. Elbow from Hughes then they trade knees before breaking. Calf kick from Hughes. Left hook then a right hand from Hughes. Another right from Hughes, Rodriguez then lands a couple punches before they clinch. Both women land knees in the clinch. Hughes lands an elbow as they break. Rodriguez with a combination to counter a calf kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rodriguez

ROUND TWO: Hughes looks to keep leg kicking, Rodriguez was slowing a bit down the stretch in the first so she’s trying to keep the pace fairly high. Both women land left hooks. Right hand from Hughes. Single leg from Hughes, Rodriguez defends in space and they trade knees in the clinch. More knees go back and forth before they break. Hughes lands a left hand. Bit of a right hand from Rodriguez. Rodriguez with a clinch in space, she lands knees then trips Hughes down to land on top in full guard. After a bit Hughes kicks her off and they reset. Combination from Rodriguez then a knee before they clinch on the fence. The combination work from Rodriguez is the real difference maker so far. They break without incident. Bit of a left from Hughes. They clinch up then break. Rodriguez lands a left hook. Both women land punches in close, Rodriguez with a right uppercut to close out the round.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Inside leg kick from Hughes. Bit of a high kick from Rodriguez. Glancing right hand from Hughes. Rodriguez with a combination into a clinch then she lands knees and an elbow. Hughes threatens a whizzer kick but can’t finish it, she then lands an elbow as the clinch breaks. A few jabs from Hughes land. Rodriguez with some body attacks as she’s moving forward then a right hand. Another clinch, more knees are traded before they hit the fence. Left hand from Rodriguez after they separated. Hughes lands some jabs but she needs substantial offense now. Rodriguez with a couple of punches. They clinch again, Hughes lands an elbow as they break. Left to the body from Rodriguez. They trade rights then Rodriguez lands a left hook. Body to head punches from Rodriguez, she’s fighting quite well. Rodriguez pushes into a clinch on the fence, Hughes lands an elbow but Rodriguez responds with a left hand. Right hand from Rodriguez. Another right from Rodriguez then they trade in close as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Piera Rodriguez via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Solid enough win for Rodriguez, but she does not get an interview.

Luan Lacerda has gone 1-2 in the UFC but he is coming off of a win and now looks for his first UFC winning streak while also bringing his UFC record to the .500 mark. Hecher Sosa took this fight on fairly short notice when he replaced Rinya Nakamura, he is bringing an 11 fight winning streak into his UFC debut though and will be trying to maximize his only chance at making a first impression. The odds like the newcomer Sosa at -240 to Lacerda’s +195 comeback.

Bantamweight Bout: Luan Lacerda (13-3, 136 lbs.) vs. Hecher Sosa (14-1, 135.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Sosa is two inches taller while Lacerda has an inch and a half of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Sosa opens with some kicks as they circle. Lacerda with a body kick. Lacerda checks a calf kick then lands one of his own. Sosa with a front kick. Bit of a right hand from Sosa then he looks to follow up in close. Lacerda with a calf kick but Sosa lands a counter couple of hooks. Knee from Lacerda then they trade punches. Sosa with a jab, they tie up and Lacerda moves to the back standing. Lacerda works for a cheese donkey but his legs aren’t long enough so he switches to a single leg and gets Sosa down into full guard. Sosa with some elbows then he kicks Lacerda off and they wrestle up into a clinch. Some knees and uppercuts go back and forth before they break. Bit of a left hook from Sosa. Hard calf kick from Sosa but he eats a counter from Lacerda and then they clinch. Some knees from Lacerda, Sosa returns one. A few more knees go back and forth then Lacerda lands an elbow and level changes to hit a double leg. Sosa works to wall walk, he’s up but still clinched. Knee up to the head from Lacerda as they break. Counter right from Sosa lands. Both men land lefts then Sosa lands a calf kick. Hard right from Sosa gets Lacerda backing up. Stiff jab from Sosa, Lacerda swings back though. Left hand from Sosa as he goes southpaw briefly. Lacerda fires body kicks then Sosa with a few punches and a calf kick to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Lacerda but a close one

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Sosa lands a jab. Lacerda might be fading a bit, Sosa marches forward with front kicks then lands a right hand and a jab. Right hand from Sosa in close then a calf kick. Sosa did start bleeding from the nose in the first round and it’s still leaking. Lacerda fires body kicks as Sosa shows southpaw but Sosa blocks then lands a front kick and a right hand. Calf kick from Sosa. They split a few jabs. Jab from Lacerda. Sosa with a jab of his own. Lacerda tries a double leg, Sosa defends and they hit the fence though. They break with a left hand from Sosa. Left hook from Sosa in close, both men are visibly slowing now. They trade punches in close. One two from Sosa as he’s playing southpaw, then he lands a right hook. Calf kick from Sosa then a jab. Right to the body from Sosa, Lacerda responds with a punch then Sosa lands a calf kick. Right hand from Sosa. Sosa goes southpaw and lands a left hand. Another left from Sosa. Lacerda with a front kick which Sosa returns, then Sosa lands a one two. Both men land punches in close. Bit of a right from Sosa, Lacerda pushes into a clinch and they trade knees. Elbow from Sosa then he lands a few punches as he gets Lacerda on the fence. Knee from Lacerda, Sosa with body shots as they break. A couple more rights from Sosa then one to the body as well. Lacerda moves forward with a front kick, Sosa then lands one as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Sosa, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Lacerda quickly tries a takedown and hits it, Sosa quickly with elbows then scoots to the fence and wall walks with Lacerda trying to slip to the back. The broadcast has lost audio for me at this point, that’s unfortunate. They break and trade front kicks. Right from Sosa then another front kick. Sosa slips punches then lands a right to the body. Counter right from Sosa. Left hand from Sosa and Lacerda is cut on the bridge of the nose. Sosa with a calf kick. They clinch again and trade blows, both knees and elbows before breaking. Jab from Sosa. Lacerda misses a right hand and eats a counter left. Bit of an uppercut from Sosa then they tie up and trade body blows before breaking. Lacerda tries a single leg, it takes a second effort but he gets Sosa down. Sosa quickly kicks him off and lands a punch, Lacerda is cut around the left eye and that’s bothering him now. Elbow from Sosa then a right hand. Right hand from Sosa, then another one. Lacerda lands a right hand, Sosa counters with a left hook. Some more jabs from Sosa then a front kick, Lacerda’s face is busted up now. Right hand from Sosa then a calf kick. Bit of a one two from Sosa. Lacerda ducks a punch and pushes into a clinch again on the fence. They trade as they break, bit of a wild right from Sosa then a spinning back fist to close the round.

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

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

The UFC broadcast is still muted for me, that’s odd. No interview for Sosa but a fun overall fight.

Bia Mesquita is undefeated including her UFC debut last year, she’s one of the most decorated female jiu-jitsu competitors of her era and now she’s looking to make a serious push through the UFC ranks by remaining undefeated. Montserrat Rendon has gone 2-1 in the UFC and most recently got a split decision over Alice Pereira, she’s looking for a major upset here and to get her first UFC winning streak up and running. Mesquita is the biggest favorite on the card at -700 to Rendon’s +500.

Women’s Bantamweight Bout: Bia Mesquita (6-0, 135.5 lbs.) vs. Montserrat Rendon (7-1, 135 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: OK, we’ve got sound back so that’s good. Rendon is four inches taller with half an inch of reach advantage. Some early stance switching from Rendon as they circle. Mesquita lands a left hook that bothers Rendon, Mesquita pushes forward with punches and pushes Rendon over. Rendon wall walks but Mesquita hits a single leg and then moves to full mount with ease. Mesquita postures up and unloads with punches and hammer fists, now some elbows as well. Rendon is keeping her arms up and disrupting striking lanes but she’s in trouble. Mesquita settles now that she’s not close to a stoppage due to strikes and gets to working more methodically. Some punches from Mesquita land then an elbow, 12-6 style. Rendon gives up the back and Mesquita immediately locks up the choke to get the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Bia Mesquita via Submission, rear naked choke, at 2:07 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Ms. Mesquita for her work. Mic time for Mesquita, she says this was a good match because Rendon likes to grapple but is a tough fighter and she got to do her job. Asked about the future she feels she’s here to actually make a run not just take up space then puts over her team.

Brad Tavares has been with the UFC since 2010 and despite having 27 fights with the promotion has never received a post fight bonus. That’s one of those records that legitimately might never fall in my lifetime. Recently Tavares has gone just 2-5 in his last seven outings and is coming off of a loss, if he wants to hit his 16th anniversary with the UFC in June he likely needs a win here. Eryk Anders has also been with the UFC for a while, since 2017 and he’s gone 9-9 with 1 No Contest during that time. Most recently Anders was stopped by Christian Leroy Duncan and he could also use a win for some job security. The odds are very close here, -120 on Anders to an even +100 for Tavares.

Middleweight Bout: Eryk Anders (17-8 1 NC, 186 lbs.) vs. Brad Tavares (21-11, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Both men are 38 and have the same height, Anders has a one inch reach advantage. Southpaw for Anders. Both me probe with some long range weapons, Tavares lands a leg kick. Both men miss power hand punches then Tavares lands a body kick. Anders pushes into a clinch and looks for a single leg against the fence, Tavares defends though. Knee from Tavares, then another one. Anders hits the body a few times then lands a knee of his own. A few more knees go back and forth then Anders lands an elbow before they break. Head kick from Tavares is partially blocked. Anders pushes into another clinch on the fence. Both men land strikes in close before they break. Another body kick from Tavares. Anders pushes to a clinch but eats a knee to the head before they get there. A few knees go back and forth then Tavares lands a right hand as they break. Counter uppercut from Tavares, then Anders gets yet another clinch. Anders lands a left hand then they trade on the break and Tavares might be hurt. Anders lands punches as Tavares is against the fence but Tavares hangs tough and lands a right hand. Another clinch from Anders, then he punches on the break and they swing in the pocket as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Anders

ROUND TWO: Tavares circles and lands a right hook then a jumping knee as Anders clinches. Another right from Tavares as they break. Anders pushes into a clinch and looks for a single leg but Tavares defends again then they break. Counter right from Tavares as Anders pushes into a clinch. Tavares avoids a few punches as they break then he lands a body kick. High kick from Tavares then they trade power hand punches. A right from Tavares drops Anders, Tavares gets on top but Anders wrestles up so Tavares spins looking for the back. It takes a second but then Tavares gets too high and Anders gets on top in full guard. Some short elbows from Anders then he passes to half guard. Tavares kicks Anders off then tries a triangle choke before rolling to his knees. Anders in the ride position and he looks for the ack now. Tavares is able to stand and they trade in close again. One two from Tavares then he avoids a counter. Another clinch and Tavares lands knees before Anders pushes things to the fence. Tavares slips free and they reset. Bit of a body kick from Tavares then a right hand. Anders misses a left hand and high kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Tavares, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Bit of an uppercut from Tavares then a right hand in close. They get close and Anders hits a takedown against the fence. Tavares wall walks pretty quickly, Anders has slipped to the back though and they wrestle around back into a clinch. Tavares slips free and then Anders fires a high kick that’s blocked. They clinch, harai goshi from Tavares but Anders rolls with the momentum and they wind up in another clinch on the fence. Some knees go back and forth then they trade punches as they break. Solid right hand from Tavares then a body kick. One two from Tavares, then another one. Anders lands a left hand but walks into a knee. Double leg from Anders into side control along the fence. Tavares walks his legs up the fence as Anders drops a few short elbows. Eventually Anders moves to the ride, Tavares wrestles around but can’t escape a front headlock. Anders grabs a cradle for control, but Tavares stands free with 30 seconds left. Both men swing punches in close before Anders grabs another clinch. Anders tries a takedown, he gets it this time and will end the round on top.

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

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

Anders does get an interview and he puts over Tavares as a tough opponent. Anders then says this is it for him, he got a win in front of his son and he knows it’s time to call it a day then hands his gloves to his coach who’s been with him his entire career.

Bolaji Oki has traded wins and losses while going 2-2 in the UFC, he’s coming off of a loss though and hopes that pattern will continue long enough to avoid his first losing streak. Manoel Sousa brings a two fight winning streak into his UFC debut and he’s looking to make the most of his chance leaving a good first impression on the audience. The odds like the newcomer Sousa at -270 to Oki’s +220.

Lightweight Bout: Bolaji Oki (10-3, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Manoel Sousa (13-1, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Oki is an inch taller with three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Both men feint and probe with kicks early. Jab from Oki and he avoids the counter right. Overhand right from Sousa drops Oki, he gets on top and unloads from half guard but Oki ties him up and will survive for the moment. Oki is cut somewhere around the eyes. Sousa attacks a kimura, he’s got the double wrist lock and looks to crank it but Oki has moved to sitting on the fence which will help him defend. Oki stands and hits a takedown but Sousa is still after the kimura attack. Some elbows to the body from Oki as he’s on top in half guard, Sousa is still committed to that double wrist lock. Eventually Sousa bails on that attack and looks to start wall walking. Oki lands some punches. Hammer fists and elbows from Oki, Sousa wrestles up but eats a knee before they clinch. A few knees go back and forth then Sousa lands an elbow. Oki is happy to keep this clinch. They break and Sousa lands a left hook. Oki avoids a spinning back fist but Sousa lands an inside leg kick to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Sousa

ROUND TWO: Southpaw for Sousa to start, he walks into a right hand though. Both men land punches in close. Oki does some stance switching now too. Bit of a left from Sousa. Oki lands a left hand then fights off a takedown. Sousa lands a right hand. Left to the body from Sousa then Oki lands a left hook. Knee from Oki in close. Short left hand from Sousa. Both men miss looping rights. Inside leg kick from Sousa then Oki lands a right hand. Sousa with a few punches then they clinch up. Oki works to keep the clinch, Sousa with a few knees to the body. Oki with body to head punches before they break. Right to the body from Oki. Sousa lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a high kick from Sousa then he avoids a few counter punches. Sousa with a glancing right hand. Left to the body from Sousa then they trade head shots. Calf kick from Oki. Sousa takes an eye poke so we’ve got a time out. Replay confirms the poke, fairly bad one. The doctor and translator are in to check on him, he’s OK to continue and we’re back after 1:15. No point deduction of course. Both men swing punches in close. Oki misses a knee and eats a left hand. Jab from Oki. Left hand from Sousa. Oki with a couple of body blows. Left hook from Sousa staggers Oki then Oki retreats as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Sousa but both rounds were close, 20-18 Sousa overall

ROUND THREE: Both men come out jabbing for the final round. Oki lands a left to the body then a leg kick. Sousa lands a calf kick then a left hook. Oki avoids a right hand. Both men land punches in close. Sousa with a calf kick. Right hand from Sousa seems to bother Oki a bit. Oki lands a right to the body. Sousa avoids a few punches then lands a right hook. Right hand from Sousa then a body shot to follow up. Inside leg kick from Sousa then a jab. Both men miss rights. Oki avoids a left hook but Sousa lands a couple of southpaw jabs. Oki defends a takedown. Jab from Sousa again. Another jab from Sousa then both men land lefts. Bit of a right hand from Sousa. Oki lands a knee but Sousa is walking him down now and lands a left to the body. A couple punches land for Sousa. Oki with a calf kick. Stiff jab from Sousa. Right hand then a left to the body from Sousa, he’s starting to wear down Oki by this point as he’s just bludgeoning his way through his defense. Combination from Oki mostly lands before they clinch up. Sousa lands a clubbing left hook on the break then gets back to walking Oki down. Hard right from Sousa, Oki’s upright but he’s hurt and a final right hand from Sousa ENDS Oki.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Manoel Sousa via KO, punches, at 4:12 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Sousa for his work. Sousa gets an interview along with the translator, he thanks everyone watching here and in TV land. Short interview I guess.

Elijah Smith is on a seven fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC, most recently one of the best knockouts of last year when he powebombed Toshiomi Kazama into unconsciousness. Smith is trying to firmly establish himself as a rising prospect in the division. SuYoung You is on a five fight winning streak including three wins in the UFC, he’s not had a finish since 2023 though and he’ll be looking not only for another win but to prove he’s refined some finishing ability as he look to move from prospect to contender status. It’s not surprising the odds like Smith at -280 against You’s +230.

Bantamweight Bout: Elijah Smith (9-1, 136 lbs.) vs. SuYoung You (16-3 2 NC, 136 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Smith is three inches taller with a significant six inches of reach advantage, he’s also seven years younger. Some feinting from both men as they circle. Smith looks to get his jab working then follows with a right hand that doesn’t quite land. Well timed knee from Smith, You eats it and clinches up but fails a takedown and Smith winds up on top. You starts looking for sweeps and wrestles up into a clinch on the fence. Outside reap from You, he’s on top now. Smith scoots to the fence and looks to wall walk, You gets to the ride position as they stand then he trips Smith back down and hops to the back with both hooks in. They stand, You loses one hook but keeps the back standing. A few takedowns from You, Smith keeps bouncing up but You gets back to his back standing when it’s all said and done. Mat return from You and he jumps to the back again, he’s got both hooks in but Smith is trying to shake him over the top. A few short punches from You, he’s just trying to open up a choke attack. Smith again tripods up to try and shake You but You keeps the back for now. Eventually Smith breaks one hook and spins near top position, You thinks about a guillotine and uses the front headlock to start a wall walk. They clinch up on the fence and trade some knees. You hits one more takedown and ends the round on top in side control.

SCORECARD: 10-9 You but a close one

ROUND TWO: Smith looks to stalk forward, he lands a glancing right hand. You shows his own jab a bit as they circle around. Uppercut and left hook from Smith, then a right hand drops You. Smith gets after him on the mat, only one hook in but he’s got a choke locked up and You has to tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Elijah Smith via Submission, rear naked choke, at 1:04 of Round 2

Mic time for Smith, he’s happy with the win and knew the first round would be tough but knew You came out hard but would fade just enough. He wanted the knockout but feels he proved more by being technical and showing more of his skills. Asked about the future he wants to fight in New Jersey then sends love to various family members.

Vitor Petrino has gone 2-0 since moving to heavyweight last year, now he’s trying to go 3-0 in the weight class and defend his ranking. Steven Asplund is on a four fight winning streak including his UFC debut in December of last year, now he’s looking to extend that streak and knock off his first ranked opponent. The odds are with Petrino at -230 while that +190 comeback on Asplund has to look like a tempting value bet.

Heavyweight Bout: Steven Asplund (7-1, 265.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Vitor Petrino (13-2, 248.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Asplund is three inches taller with half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Asplund looks to jab and move forward. Petrino swings a few hooks that miss. Jab from Petrino. Asplund avoids a takedown attempt. Calf kick from Asplund then they both land jabs. Petrino has some punches blocked then he tries for a takedown but Asplund defends until they hit the fence. They break without incident. Inside calf kick from Petrino. Bit of a left hook from Asplund. Asplund with a front kick. Petrino avoids a right hand but his counters are all blocked. Jab from Petrino. Asplund lands a couple of punches, but he got cut under his right eye during that exchange. Petrino tries another takedown but Asplund defends again. Calf kick from Petrino. Bit of a left hook from Asplund. Asplund lands a jab. Petrino avoids a right hand. Asplund lands a calf kick. Left hook from Asplund hurts Petrino, he drops him with more punches then lands strikes from the ride. Petrino wall walks but Asplund clubs him again as Petrino circles away. Both men miss punches in close. Calf kick from Asplund. Both men just suck some air for a bit then a Petrino jab basically ends the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Asplund

ROUND TWO: Petrino opens with some kicks. Jab from Petrino then another calf kick. Asplund lands a jab of his own. Asplund slips on a kick and Petrino jumps on his back with both hooks in. Choke attack from Petrino, he can’t find it though and Asplund wall walks with Petrino on his back. Petrino holds the back, Asplund breaks the grip though and resets at distance. Jab from Petrino. They split jabs then Petrino avoids a few punches but he’s pretty tired now. More forward pressure from Asplund and both men miss punches. Bit of a flurry from Asplund then both men just wander around. Left hand from Petrino but he misses the follow ups. Calf kick from Petrino. Petrino lands a few hooks in close but Asplund just eats them. Calf kick from Petrino. Asplund avoids a calf kick but both men are tired now. Again they split jabs. Bit of a left hand from Asplund. Both men swing and miss, Petrino lands a right hand as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Petrino, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They hug for the final round. Calf kick from Asplund then an inside leg kick as well. Stiff jab from Petrino. Petrino hits the body in close. Bit of a body kick from Asplund. A right hand from Asplund bothers Petrino but Petrino swings back and cracks him back in the pocket. More pressure from Asplund and he’s making Petrino swing hard in close but he’s missing. Both men land body blows in close. Short left from Asplund. Calf kick from Petrino. Right hand from Asplund. Petrino keeps walking away, he’s tired and keeps trying to buy time to reload which Asplund foolishly is giving him. Left hand from Asplund. Left hook from Petrino. Asplund is showing southpaw now and lands a left hand. Inside calf kick from Petrino. More walking from Petrino but Asplund isn’t punishing him. They trade lefts. Inside calf kick from Petrino then a right to the body. Now it’s Asplund with the inside leg kick. Left hand from Asplund. Petrino blocks a few punches then lands a left hook. Both men swing wildly for the final couple of seconds but nothing of real substance lands.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Petrino but could go either way, 29-28 Petrino overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Vitor Petrino via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Mic time for Petrino and the translator despite that fight being about as generic a slugfest for 10 minutes as you’ll find. Petrino says this is what heavyweights need to do (what, suck wind and sloppily swing?) and that’s it for his time.

Chris Curtis returned to welterweight in his last fight, his first time doing so since 2021, and got a win. Curtis is trying to build his first winning streak since 2022 with a win here, and at his age with his mileage if he wants to make a serious push he needs not only a win but a decisive one if possible. Myktybek Orolbai has gone 4-1 in the UFC and got a solid win in his welterweight return his last time out, he’s looking to keep building his winning streak and more fully establish himself as a presence in the division. The odds are solidly with Orolbai at -360, a little heavy for my taste while that +280 comeback on Curtis has to tempt some bettors out there.

Welterweight Bout: Chris Curtis (32-12 1 NC, 170.5 lbs.) vs. Myktybek Orolbai (15-2-1, 170.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Curtis has an inch and a half of reach advantage, Orolbai is also a full decade younger though. Southpaw for Curtis. Both men circle early and look for feints. Orolbai has a high kick blocked. Curtis avoids a kick and lands a left to the body. Counter left from Curtis after he took a jab. Orolbai tries a single leg, he gets it against the fence. Curtis with some elbows as he’s wall walking, Orolbai moves to his back and starts looking for trips. Mat return from Orolbai, Curtis bounces up again. Orolbai keeps hanging out on the back and hits an ankle pick, Curtis looks to wall walk again and gets up but Orolbai is back on his back. Another mat return from Orolbai, he fires a few short punches as Curtis wall walks again. Another mat return from Orolbai and he gets both hooks in this time. Orolbai switches to throwing some punches, Curtis scrambles around though and Orolbai moves to the ride. Some hammer fists from Orolbai and he swings punches. Curtis regains his feet but Orolbai just mat returns him again. Some short blows from Orolbai as he’s on the back while Curtis is on one knee against the fence. That’s where the round will end.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Orolbai

ROUND TWO: Curtis lands a body kick to get the round going. Bit of a left hand from Curtis then a left to the body. Orolbai shoots, Curtis sprawls then lands an uppercut. Knee from Curtis lands but Orolbai then gets a takedown. Orolbai slips to the back as they stand and we’re back to where we were in the first. Orolbai has one hook in and looks for a choke, Curtis stands but Orolbai is still on his back. Again Orolbai works some mat returns and a few short punches. Slowly Orolbai rides things down then gets both hooks in. Curtis stands, Orolbai holds him still and slowly rides things back to the mat. Orolbai’s offense is fairly muted but Curtis just can’t get free. Mat return from Orolbai, Curtis bounces right up but Orolbai then hits a double leg to get on top. Curtis is looking to wall walk, Orolbai has scooped one of the legs but things are stalling out a bit. Curtis wall walks, Orolbai gets the back standing again and that’s where the round will end.

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

ROUND THREE: Left to the body from Curtis. Both men miss power hand punches then Curtis hits the body. A couple more body shots from Curtis and he’s moving forward. Orolbai with an inside leg kick. Orolbai tries a single leg, that winds up in a clinch on the fence yet again. Some short lefts from Curtis but Orolbai slips to his back and rides him down to a knee. Curtis grabs a double wrist lock, Orolbai is able to slam him down though then moves to the ride. Another wall walk from Curtis, Orolbai on the back still and looks for mat returns. Bit of a single leg from Orolbai, Curtis tries another kimura then gets chest to chest but Orolbai hits a double leg. Orolbai moves to the back as Curtis stands then looks for another takedown. Curtis gets chest to chest, Orolbai looks for a double leg and gets Curtis to a knee. Wall walk from Curtis still into a clinch. Elbow from Curtis, then another as they break just before the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Myktybek Orolbai via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

No interview for Orolbai but a solid overall win for him.

Bruno Silva has gone 5-4 with 1 No Contest in the UFC, he just broke a two fight losing streak and now looks to build another UFC winning streak. Charles Johnson is coming off of a loss but he owns stoppage wins over the champion Joshua Van and now top contender Lone’er Kavanagh, he really needs to avoid another losing streak though if he wants to capitalize on what those wins represent as far as potential goes. The odds lean towards Johnson at -160 to Silva’s +135.

Flyweight Bout: #14 Charles Johnson (18-8, 126 lbs.) vs. #15 Bruno Silva (15-7-2 1 NC, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Johnson has five inches of height and reach advantage. Johnson opens southpaw but will switch as he feels like. Silva feints his way forward then lands an inside calf kick. Johnson lands a left hand then tries a takedown but settles for a clinch. A few knees from Johnson then he lands a right hook as they break. Bit of a left hand from Johnson. Front kick from Johnson. Silva avoids a takedown attempt. Right uppercut from Silva as he pushes into a clinch. Johnson lands an elbow as they break. Inside leg kick from Johnson. Some stance switching from Johnson, he’s still mostly southpaw though. Right hand from Silva. Johnson with another inside leg kick then a knee in a clinch. Silva pushes things to the fence. Short elbow from Johnson then a knee as they break. Bit of an uppercut from Silva. Johnson shows a few more kicks at range. Short left hook from Johnson then he lands a head kick. Silva lands a body kick. Johnson avoids a right hand then both men land in close as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Johnson but a close one

ROUND TWO: Johnson with more kicks as the round starts, Silva keeps looking to move forward. Bit of a high kick from Johnson. Silva pushes into a clinch. Bit of a knee from Johnson then they break. Jab from Johnson but Silva gets another clinch on the fence. Short elbow from Johnson, Silva is landing some short punches but his offense still feels muted. They break then Johnson lands a combination. Front kick from Johnson. Silva kicks Johnson in the groin so we’ve got a time out. Johnson only takes 11 seconds then we’re back to fighting. Inside leg kicks go back and forth. Right elbow from Silva. Silva tries another takedown but gets another clinch on the fence. Johnson with some knees while avoids a takedown then they break. Silva lands a left hook. Johnson with a right hook of his own. Another clinch from Silva but Johnson pushes free then lands a front kick. Bit of a head kick from Johnson. They trade a few jabs then Silva with a bit of an uppercut into a clinch. Elbow from Johnson then they break. Uppercut from Silva. Body kick from Johnson then an inside leg kick. They clinch and both men bang heads so we’ve got another break. We’re back after 30 seconds, and of course no point. Silva throws another inside leg kick and that one goes low again so we’ve got another break. For crying out loud ref, take a point as the replay shows the kick went low. Of course no point deduction because rules are just suggestions at best. We’re back after 40 seconds. Johnson catches a kick but can’t do anything with it. Bit of a body kick from Silva. A Johnson calf kick closes the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Silva but another close one, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Both men get back to kicking. They clinch, Johnson lands a few rights as they hit the fence. Silva looks to level change, Johnson defends but Silva is hugging away. Right elbow from Johnson as they break. Both men land punches in close before Silva clinches again. They jockey for position then break. Front kick from Johnson then he shoots into a clinch before Silva pushes free. Front kick from Johnson. Silva with some rights that land. Bit of an uppercut from Silva then he clinches up again. Johnson with a knee then they break. Spinning elbow from Silva partially lands then they clinch and break. Front kicks from Johnson. Silva forces yet another clinch on the fence. Johnson spins free but he needs some real offense. Silva lands an uppercut but eats an elbow in the clinch. Another elbow from Johnson then a knee to the body as they break. Another clinch and Johnson lands another elbow on the break. Right to the body from Johnson. They both hit the body in close. Jabs go back and forth then Johnson lands a right hand. Elbow from Johnson then a body kick. Another clinch and knee from Johnson. Both men land jabs then Johnson hits the body in close and Silva might be hurt. Elbow from Johnson then a front kick. Both men land in close again as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Johnson but again close, 29-28 Johnson overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Charles Johnson via split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)

I’m a little surprised at 30-27 but all three rounds were close. Mic time for Johnson, he puts over Silva then says he knocked out Josh Van and Lone’er Kavanagh and wants a top 5 or so opponent next. Asked about a specific name he’d like a rematch with Brandon Royval as they fought in the LFA, or maybe Kyoji Horiguchi or Asu Almabayev. Royval and Almabayev are reasonable callouts actually.

Oumar Sy has gone 3-1 in the UFC and most recently stopped Brendson Ribeiro, now he’s after another winning streak and to start making some moves in a division that seems perpetually in need of talent. Ion Cutelaba has had a surprisingly long UFC run, he debuted back in 2016 and has gone 8-10-1 in the promotion. Cutelaba is coming off of a loss and now tries to avoid another losing streak. The odds, which have been doing well tonight overall, are with Sy at -305 to Cutelaba’s +245.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Ion Cutelaba (19-11-1 1 NC, 205 lbs.) vs. Oumar Sy (12-1, 205.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Sy is three inches taller with a big eight inches of reach advantage. Both men with some early range finding techniques. Sy keeps looking for his jab, then lands a calf kick. Cutelaba shows some stance switches. Side kick to the knee from Sy. Bit of a front kick from Cutelaba. Both men keep probing with leg kicks then Sy lands a right hand. They clinch up and Cutelaba pushes things to the fence. Bit of a harai goshi from Cutelaba and he lands on top in half guard. Sy counters and wrestles up on a single leg against the fence. Takedown from Sy, Cutelaba rolls with him and winds up on top though. Sy looks to tie up a leg, Cutelaba lands a punch and tries to smother that. Elbow from Cutelaba. Sy has a bit of a Mir lock going then switches to attack the leg again, he’s after the heel hook but isn’t great about finishing it. Cutelaba spins and gets back on top, Sy wrestles up on a double leg, Cutelaba grabs a guillotine though and rolls to mount with it which gets the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ion Cutelaba via Submission, mounted guillotine choke, at 4:24 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Cutelaba for his work. Mic time for Cutelaba and the translator, he plays a bit with the crowd such as it is then asks to fight on April 4th and feels good. He closes by putting over everyone who fights for the UFC then reiterates he wants to fight on the 4th.

Marwan Rahiki is undefeated coming into his UFC debut, he’s trying to remain that way and take advantage of his main card placement to showcase his skills. Harry Hardwick had a long unbeaten streak broken in his UFC debut when he stepped in on short notice, now he’s hoping that with a proper training camp his sophomore outing will lead to a win. The odds are with the debuting Rahiki at -260 while +210 for the more experienced Hardwick might have some value on it.

Featherweight Bout: Harry Hardwick (13-4-1, 145.5 lbs.) vs. Marwan Rahiki (7-0, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Rahiki has an inch of reach advantage, he’s also 8 years younger. They touch gloves to get things going. Both men show stance switches then Hardwick avoids a calf kick. Rahiki misses a head kick, then slips and Hardwick jumps onto his back and gets a body triangle as he moves to the backpack position. Some punches from Hardwick but he winds up sliding off and they reset on the feet. Rahiki misses a right hand. Front kick from Rahiki. Both men land rights then Hardwick lands a calf kick. Jab from Hardwick then he checks a calf kick. Right hand from Hardwick. Rahiki avoids a high kick. Calf kick from Rahiki. Hardwick avoids a left hand. Bit of a high kick from Hardwick then a body kick. Calf kick from Rahiki. Side kick to the knee from Rahiki. A few more side kicks to the leg from Rahiki. Inside leg kick from Hardwick. Bit of a knee from Rahiki. A couple rights from Hardwick land then a calf kick. Double jab and left hand from Hardwick, Rahiki counters with a right hook. Hardwick with a calf kick. Rahiki lands some hard punches and Hardwick is hurt but he fires back and gets Rahiki to back off. Both men land punches in the pocket then Rahiki lands an elbow. Calf kick from Hardwick. Rahiki jabs the body then Hardwick lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a high kick from Hardwick. Both men miss rights, then a bit of a spinning back kick from Rahiki closes the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rahiki but a close one

ROUND TWO: Both men open with kicks again. Hardwick lands a calf kick. Left hand from Hardwick bothers Rahiki. Both men land body shots then Rahiki lands a high kick which hurts Hardwick. Calf kick from Hardwick. Rahiki with an elbow, he’s got Hardwick on the fence and looks to unload but Hardwick backs him off with punches and a head kick of his own. Calf kick from Hardwick. Hardwick eats a hard left hook and Rahiki starts swinging against the fence but Hardwick wont go down and keeps throwing back. Right hand from Hardwick, if he can survive Rahiki is going to be quite tired from those flurries. Hardwick pushes into a clinch but can’t keep it. Elbow from Rahiki then Hardwick lands a left hook. Jab from Hardwick. Hardwick with a left to the body. Spinning back kick from Rahiki then a knee but Hardwick hits a takedown, Rahiki sweeps though to get on top in full guard. Not much going on here at the moment, eventually Rahiki stands free and they reset on the feet. A few calf kicks go back and forth. Hardwick misses a few kicks to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rahiki, could be 10-8, 20-18 Rahiki overall

ROUND THREE: Hardwick had his jaw broken there in the second so his corner stepped in to stop this. Thank heavens the corner and fighter were smart about it.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marwan Rahiki via TKO, corner stoppage, at 5:00 of Round 2

Mic time for Rahiki and he says this is what he’s trained for and while he wanted a quick knockout he did learn a few things out of this fight. Asked about the future he wants to fight quickly and talks about how hard he trains. He then asks for a bonus, again the UFC doesn’t like that, then to close he sends love to Morocco and Australia.

Andre Fili has perpetually been up and down in the UFC, he’s traded wins and losses while going 4-4 in his last eight fights. Most recently he did get a win and now looks for his first winning streak since 2019. Jose Delgado has gone 2-1 in the UFC but he is coming off of a loss to Nathaniel Wood, he’s trying to notch a veteran of the promotion to his belt here and avoid his first losing streak. The odds are firmly with Delgado at -450 to Fili’s +350 comeback.

Featherweight Bout: Jose Delgado (10-2, 146 lbs.) vs. Andre Fili (25-12 1 NC, 145.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two have the same height and reach measurements but Delgado is 8 years younger. Both men with a lot of early feinting and probing with low kicks. Both men also do a lot of stance switching as they move around. Body kick from Delgado then they trade punches in close. Right from Fili, Delgado then lands one of his own and a calf kick. Delgado with a calf kick. Head kick from Delgado, he gets too aggressive though and Fili clocks him with a right hand that drops him but Delgado wrestles up quickly. Fili avoids a takedown attempt. Both men throw some jabs as they circle. Left to the body from Delgado then a body kick. Fili lands a body kick. Both men miss rights. Calf kick from Delgado. Calf kick from Delgado but Fili lands a counter right. They trade rights. Delgado lands another calf kick. Fili with a right hand then a double leg. Delgado quickly bounces up, Fili then holds the back for the last 10 seconds and ice the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Fili

ROUND TWO: Body kick from Delgado to start the round. Jab from Fili. A jab from Delgado then a calf kick. Delgado tries a single leg, can’t finish it but he does land a knee. Body kick from Delgado. Fili with a few jabs while moving forward. A couple calf kicks from Delgado land. Fili lands a left hand. Spinning back kick from Delgado lands, then a left body kick. That body work might be getting to Fili just a bit now. A head kick from Delgado gets Fili to start moving backwards. Front kick from Delgado, Fili lands a counter left. They both land punches in close then we get a wild brawl, Delgado gets a double collar tie and lands knees before they break. Fili still looks a little out of sorts as he starts moving forward. Delgado avoids a few punches. Fili misses a head kick. Both men with rights in close. Inside leg kick from Delgado. Fili blocks a head kick and both men miss punches. Bit of a body kick from Delgado. Single leg from Delgado and he’s on top in half guard. Delgado quickly looks to drop elbows then Fili wrestles up and free. Fili with a body kick, Delgado then lands a front kick. Left hook from Delgado stuns Fili for a second. Fili hits a takedown into full guard and they end the round on the mat.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Delgado, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Both men get back to probing at distance. Calf kick from Delgado. Fili misses a head kick then Delgado lands a left to the body. Bit of a right hand from Delgado. Jab from Delgado. Both men land rights in close. Fili misses a couple of punches. Calf kick from Delgado. Right hand from Delgado then a calf kick and a front kick. Fili has a right hand blocked. Front kick from Delgado. Left hand from Delgado stuns Fili a bit. Delgado with a head kick that mostly lands then a calf kick behind it. Fili looks to jab his way into the pocket but Delgado cracks him with a couple of rights. Body kick from Fili. Delgado hits the body a couple times then lands a right hand. Fili is hurt, Delgado lands an elbow in close and Fili grabs a clinch. Delgado pushes things to the fence then lands an elbow as they break. Bit of a right hand from Delgado then a front kick. Body jab then a right hand from Delgado. Left hook from Delgado then a calf kick. Inside leg kick from Delgado. Fili lands a jab but misses a right hand. They both land rights then Delgado fires a front kick. Double leg from Fili into side control. Delgado scrambles up, Fili takes him back down though into full guard. They both swing on the mat as the round ends.

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

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

The third round might have been close enough to warrant split but I think Fili is just contractually obligated to get one scorecard no matter what if it goes the distance. Mic time for Delgado, he puts over Fili and Fili’s career. He says sitting with the loss in his last fight has sucked and he just wants to get back to winning since he’s a very competitive person.

Amanda Lemos failed to capture the title back in 2023 and has been going back and forth since then. Most recently she lost to Tatiana Suarez and now she’s trying to avoid her first losing streak. Gillian Robertson has been with the UFC since 2017 and has gone 13-6 with the promotion, but most recently she’s developed a four fight winning streak and finds herself close to the title picture. A win here would definitely put her name into title contention given the overall state of the division. The odds like Robertson at -230 to a +190 comeback on Lemos.

Strawweight Bout: #5 Amanda Lemos (15-5-1, 116 lbs.) vs. #8 Gillian Robertson (16-8, 116 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Robertson is an inch taller while Lemos has two inches of reach advantage, Lemos is also 8 years older. Lots of early circling, some stance switching from Lemos. Both women probe with front kicks. They tie up and Lemos pushes things into the fence. Robertson is fishing for a front headlock and turns things around then they break. Calf kicks are traded. Jab from Lemos. Robertson scoots forward into another clinch. Single leg from Robertson, Lemos is defending but eventually Robertson finishes it into guard. They scramble, Robertson works for another single leg and Lemos lands a few elbows to the back of the head. Robertson winds up kind of pulling guard, Lemos drops elbows as they’re tied up somewhat awkwardly. Kimura attack from Lemos, she moves to north-south but Robertson spins to her knees and gets on top. Quick wall walk from Lemos but Robertson is on her back. A few knees from Robertson land but nothing serious. They break the Lemos lands a right hand. Robertson just looks slower in every area. Bit of a high kick from Lemos. They trade rights then close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Lemos

ROUND TWO: Jab from Lemos as she’s circling. Calf kick from Robertson. Glancing left hand from Lemos. A few jabs from Lemos then Robertson hits a double leg takedown. Lemos grabs at a choke but loses it. Robertson passes to side control and establishes position there. Lemos tries to tie up the head with her legs but Robertson moves to north-south. Robertson moves to the ride as Lemos gets to her knees, then Lemos goes to her back and catches half guard. Some elbows from Robertson land. Lemos gets to a hip and tries to sweep but Robertson grabs at a cradle for control. Ultimately Robertson moves to mount, Lemos shrimps to half guard though. Some elbows to the body from Robertson. A couple more elbows from Robertson, Lemos has scooted to the fence though and looks to wall walk. Robertson drops more elbows, Lemos wrestles up and hits a double leg of her own though. They wrestle up and trade a few punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Robertson, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Lemos misses a few jabs. Robertson with a front kick then an inside leg kick. Lemos lands a left hand. Robertson pushes into a clinch and gets things to the fence. Elbow from Robertson then Lemos spins free. Lots of pressure from Robertson, Lemos is circling but not landing much. Double leg from Robertson, it hits the fence and she finishes it. Lemos quickly tries to wrestle up, Robertson grabs a front headlock and lands knees as they stand. Eventually they break but Robertson gets right back on pressure. Another clinch from Robertson and she looks for a single leg, Lemos tries to defend but eventually they hit the mat. Lemos tries for an armbar in transition but Robertson pulls free and gets on top in side control. Robertson puts herself into half guard for control and starts fishing for a kimura. A few elbows from Robertson then she bails on the kimura. More elbows to the body from Robertson. Lemos tries to get to a hip, Robertson lands punches then moves to the ride position. Robertson back to side control and they’ll end the round trading strikes on the mat as Robertson goes knee on belly and throws punches for the final seconds.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Gillian Robertson via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Mic time for Robertson, she admits to having a rough start but feels she won the second two rounds. Asked about the future she feels her five fight winning streak should get a title shot.

Josh Emmett is just 1-4 in his last five fights, now the level of opposition needs to be considered as those four losses are to Yair Rodriguez, Ilia Topuria, Lerone Murphy, and Youssef Zalal. In the middle of that he did knock out Bryce Mitchell with one of the more violent knockouts you’ll see. Despite all that Emmett is on a two fight losing streak and at 41 years old he badly needs a win here. Kevin Vallejos is on a six fight winning streak including being 3-0 in the UFC, a win here would be the biggest of his career and would put him in prime position to have another wildly successful year after making waves going 3-0 last year. Vallejos is a big favorite at -550 to Emmett’s +400.

Featherweight Bout: #11 Josh Emmett (19-6, 146 lbs.) vs. #14 Kevin Vallejos (17-1, 145.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Vallejos is half an inch taller while Emmett has two inches of reach advantage, Emmett is also 17 years older which makes this the biggest age gap for a UFC main event. They touch gloves to get things going. Lots of movement from Emmett early. Vallejos looks to stalk his way forward and fires a high kick. Bit of a right hand from Vallejos. Emmett misses a left hook. Both men show some stance switches now as they move around. Calf kick from Vallejos then a left hook behind it. Counter right from Vallejos then he avoids a double leg. Emmett is already leaking from the nose. Right hand from Vallejos in close then an elbow and Emmett is cut now on the forehead. Vallejos with a left to the body then a calf kick. Emmett misses a right hand. Vallejos is getting to Emmett with his pressure, he’s not quit landing his counters yet but he’s getting dialed in. Right from Vallejos then they trade and another right from Vallejos drops Emmett. Vallejos on top and landing elbows and punches, Emmett rolls to turtle and fights up but eats a knee and another elbow. Vallejos continues to land elbows and knees, then an uppercut drops Emmett again and that gets the ref to step in.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Kevin Vallejos via TKO, punches and elbows, at 3:33 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Vallejos for his work. Mic time for Vallejos and the translator after that impressive performance, he thanks God first and then puts over Emmett and felt some fear but used it to get the result. He talks us through the finish and knew he could counter Emmett as Emmett has become a bit predictable. Asked about the future he doesn’t have a name but tells Argentina that they’re going to have a world champion in him.

Well on that note UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Vallejos comes to a close. We’ll be unpacking all the fallout from this event tomorrow on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast, available on the 411 youtube channel, plus looking ahead to the UFC’s return to London with UFC Fight Night: Evloev vs. Murphy next week. I’ll be back for that event and I hope you will too. Until then thanks for reading, be that live or after the fact, stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

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