mma / Reports

411’s UFC Fight Night Report: Blaydes stops Daukaus

March 27, 2022 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC on ESPN+ 63 Image Credit: UFC

MAIN CARD (ESPN/ESPN+, 5 p.m. ET)
#4 Curtis Blaydes (259 lbs.) vs. #9 Chris Daukaus (243 lbs.)
#9 Alexa Grasso (125 lbs.) vs. #7 Joanne Wood (125 lbs.)
Bryan Barberena (170.5 lbs.) vs. Matt Brown (170.5 lbs.)
#2 Askar Askarov (126 lbs.) vs. #6 Kai Kara-France (125.5 lbs.)
Ilir Latifi (239.5 lbs.) vs. Aleksei Oleinik (246 lbs.)
Max Griffin (171 lbs.) vs. #9 Neil Magny (170 lbs.)
Viacheslav Borshchev (155.5 lbs.) vs. Marc Diakiese (155 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN/ESPN+, 4 p.m. ET)
#9 Sara McMann (135 lbs.) vs. #12 Karol Rosa (135 lbs.)
Danaa Batgerel (136 lbs.) vs. Chris Gutierrez (135 lbs.)
Aliaskhab Khizriev (185 lbs.) vs. Denis Tiuliulin (185.5 lbs.)
#13 Manon Fiorot (125.5 lbs.) vs. #4 Jennifer Maia (126 lbs.)
#10 David Dvorak (125.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Matheus Nicolau (126 lbs.)
Luis Saldana (145 lbs.) vs. Bruno Souza (144 lbs.)

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC on ESPN 33/UFC on ESPN+ 63, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening. Tonight the UFC is back in Ohio for the first time since UFC 203 in 2016, they had an event scheduled for 2020 but the pandemic kind of put the kibosh on that one. For this return to the state they’ve brought a heavyweight main event but in addition to that there are more than a few fights sprinkled throughout the card that have my attention. The flyweight fight between Askar Askarov and Kai Kara-France should crown the next title challenger, Matt Brown vs. Bryan Barberena has fan friendly fight written all over it, Danaa Batgerel and Chris Gutierrez is one you should definitely keep an eye on, and rising contender Manon Fiorot takes a serious step up in class when she battles Jennifer Maia. The main event of Curtis Blaydes and Chris Daukaus isn’t exactly leaping off of the page at you but it’s a mostly relevant fight for the heavyweight division.

UFC on ESPN+ 63 comes to the world from the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. We’ve got Jon Anik, Daniel Cormier, and Michael Bisping on commentary. As for the rules, I have no idea what Ohio operates under and hopefully the broadcast will let us know this time. Do keep in mind that we’re in the bigger 30 foot diameter cage instead of the 25 footer in the Apex.

The venue is about half full or so before the first prelim starts, a good sign. We are updated that we’ve lost Ilir Latifi vs. Aleksei Oleinik due to a non-COVID illness for Latifi. I’m not shedding any tears over that one falling out, and Neil Magny vs. Max Griffin will move up to replace it in the bout order.

No rules update as the first fight gets underway, I’m going to assume the older rules based on a quick search of what Ohio uses.

Luis Saldana has gone 1-1 in the UFC but is coming off of a loss, now he’s trying to bounce back and get his UFC record above the .500 mark. Bruno Souza had a 10 fight winning streak snapped in his UFC debut late last year, this time out he’s hoping to get that all important first UFC win under his belt. The odds are close but favor Souza at -135 to an even +115 on Saldana.

Featherweight Bout: Luis Saldana (15-7, 145 lbs.) vs. Bruno Souza (10-2, 144 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Saldana is an inch taller with three inches of reach advantage. Both men probe with kicks early. And we’ve got “Woo’s” after less than 30 seconds. Bit of a right from Souza. Saldana is trying to establish his jab, Souza is working to counter with a right hand. Some inside leg kicks go back and forth. Bit of a left hook from Souza, he’s the one pressing forward so far. Saldana lands a leg kick. Souza lands a right hand. Calf kick from Saldana, they’re starting to add up a bit. Some stance switching from Saldana, Souza is pretty solidly orthodox. A “USA” chant breaks out in favor of Saldana. Bit of a right from Saldana then a leg kick. Commentary ignores the fight to talk about Michael Bisping nearly choking on steak last week, because Cormier can’t help but stream of consciousness his way through striking. Double leg from Saldana, he briefly gets the back as Souza scrambles back up and they break. Another takedown from Saldana, he’s in a weird kind of donkey guard, then Souza comes up on a single leg attempt as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Saldana

ROUND TWO: Souza comes out swinging and moving forward again. Inside leg kick from Souza. Bit of a head kick from Saldana. Both men land power hand punches. Saldana keeps landing arm punches, then Souza lands a leg kick. Souza lands a right to the body then a leg kick. A lot more activity from Souza this round, he misses a hook then Saldana hits a double leg and gets the back as they stand. Souza tries to granby roll but Saldana is with him and gets the back as they scramble but he’s too high and only has one hook in. Saldana is kind of threatening a reverse triangle choke, but Souza pushes through and wall walks then they separate. Saldana avoids a right hand. Jumping knee from Souza partially lands. Saldana lands a knee as well but he eats a counter left. Souza is switching his stance now as well. Bit of a right from Souza then a body kick. Leg kick from Souza then a left hook in close. A couple of one twos from Souza. Both men land rights. Souza punches into the clinch to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Souza, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Souza keeps up the forward pressure, he lands a couple of punches. Spinning back kick from Saldana lands. Souza lands a right hand then they trade lets. Body attack from Souza, then an overhand right. Saldana misses a spinning back fist. Souza lands a right hand. Saldana avoids a combination but doesn’t counter. Stiff jab from Saldana. Souza lands a right hand. Saldana misses another spinning attack, Souza then backs him into the fence and lands a few punches. Now Saldana tries to call Souza on, and they trade leg kicks. Another right from Souza lands. Saldana lands a body kick but Souza takes him down off of it then they scramble back up immediately. Souza avoids a few punches. A few punches are traded, Saldana then lands a couple of stiff blows that get Souza backing up. Saldana lands a right, Souza returns it. Souza avoids a spin and lands a one two. Another right from Souza and he gets a clinch on the fence. Saldana lands some elbows in the clinch, then Souza lands one as they break. Souza lands another one two then a left hand as they run out the clock.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Souza but a close one, 29-28 Souza overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Luis Saldana via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

No issues with that and 29-28 for either man is perfectly acceptabl, the third was close and arguably Saldana landed the more quality shots. Saldana gets an interview, he plays with the crowd then felt he won every round and thinks his cardio was great. Doubling over to catch his breath in the third round would be evidence to the contrary. He puts over the crowd again, then thanks his camp for all of their work.

Matheus Nicolau is on a four fight winning streak that includes being 2-0 since returning to the UFC, if he can extend that streak here he could easily find himself fighting someone in the top five contenders next. David Dvorak is on a ridiculously long 16 fight winning streak that includes going 3-0 in the UFC, that streak has seen him emerge as a rising contender and now he gets his first shot at a top ranked opponent as he looks to continue his ascent through the flyweight ranks. Dvorak is the favorite at -130 to a +110 comeback on Nicolau.

Flyweight Bout: #10 David Dvorak (20-3, 125.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Matheus Nicolau (17-2-1, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Nicolau is an inch taller while Dvorak has two and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Dvorak is stalking forward, both men are probing with the lead hand. Nicolau is trying to circle but Dvorak is doing a decent job of cutting him off. Bit of a right from Dvorak. Dvorak lands a right hand. Another right from Dvorak. Nicolau avoids a few punches but he’s not landing anything. A right then a left hook from Nicolau both land. They clinch up then Dvorak lands a right hand as they break. Nicolau avoids a right hand then misses a front kick. Dvorak lands a calf kick. Both men land rights. Another leg kick from Dvorak. Nicolau jabs the body as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dvorak but could go either way

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Dvorak gets back to pressing forward and showing the lead hand. Calf kick from Dvorak staggers Nicolau for a second. Inside leg kick from Dvorak. Bit of a front kick from Dvorak. Nicolau lands an inside leg kick. Nicolau lands a left hook. Calf kick from Nicolau. Dvorak lands a right hand in close. Nicolau lands a calf kick, Dvorak returns it. Bit of a right from Dvorak. Short combination from Dvorak. Nicolau jabs the body but takes a counter right. Both men land rights. Nicolau lands a right hand, when he goes he’s landing and has fast hands but he’s not pulling the trigger nearly enough. Both men land punches in close. A couple of front kicks from Dvorak land. Dvorak lands a calf kick and Nicolau falls short on the counters. A left hook from Nicolau staggers Dvorak then he jumps on top in full guard. Dvorak recovers and starts fighting off of his back as Nicolau tries to posture up. A short elbow from Nicolau lands, then they trade on the mat as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Nicolau, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Nicolau jabs the body then lands another left that staggers Dvorak. Dvorak recovers faster this time but he’s not adjusting to the hook. Calf kick from Nicolau. Dvorak avoids a couple of punches and lands some glancing hooks. Dvorak gets a clinch but can’t find offense before Nicolau slips free. Both men jab the body. Bit of a right from Dvorak. Nicolau lands a jab. Both men land rights then Dvorak fires a knee. Nicolau tries a double leg, Dvorak defends it. Dvorak misses a right hand. Nicolau lands a left hand but Dvorak is still backing him up. Dvorak stuffs a double leg and gets on top landing some punches while Nicolau looks to spin for a leg lock. Nicolau is trying to tie up the legs, he’s after a kneebar but winds up in 50/50 guard. Dvorak spins out of the guard and gets into full guard landing some punches. Nicolau is trying to work his guard, Dvorak passes to half guard and lands some more short punches as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Matheus Nicolau via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Slow start to the fight but Nicolau came alive down the stretch. Mic time for Nicolau and a translator, he puts over Dvorak and knows he had a tough first round but he got going later. He says he’s a well rounded fighter, and if you think he’s only a grappler you’re in the wrong and says he wants a top five opponent next. Asked if he has a specific name he doesn’t have a name, but his goal is to be the champion and reiterates he wants a top five opponent next.

Jennifer Maia has been trading wins and losses since 2019 but also fought for the title in 2020, she’s coming off of a loss to Katlyn Chookagian though and is now trying to avoid her first ever losing streak. Manon Fiorot is on an eight fight winning streak including three wins in the UFC that have seen a significant amount of hype start to build around her, now she’s taking a serious step up in class but a win here would be the biggest of her career and could set up an even bigger fight next time. The odds are heavily with Fiorot at -475 while the +350 comeback on Maia might tempt a few bettors out there.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #13 Manon Fiorot (8-1, 125.5 lbs.) vs. #4 Jennifer Maia (19-8-1, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Fiorot is three inches taller and has an inch of reach advantage. southpaw for Fiorot, and she opens with a side kick to the leg. Maia is looking to counter the kicks with punches. Both women land punches. Fiorot lands a side kick to the body. Bit of a left from Fiorot. Side kicks from Fiorot, then she lands a left hand. Maia misses a left hook. Another side kick from Fiorot lands, she’s fighting long and starting to chew up Maia. A left from Fiorot, Maia lands a body kick but takes a counter left hand. Both women land punches, but Fiorot is constantly angling in the pocket while Maia is rather linear. Body kick from Fiorot, Maia lands a counter left hook. Fiorot side kicks the knee then they trade power hand punches. Stiff left from Fiorot lands, she’s starting to time Maia trying to follow her kicks back. Bit of a check hook from Fiorot then she side kicks the body again. Maia eats a high kick and forces a clinch that hits the fence. They fight for position then Fiorot slips free but eats a punch from Maia. Body kick from Fiorot lands. Both women land power hand punches. Fiorot lands a side kick to the body then a knee in close. Head kick from Fiorot, Maia pushes forward and lands a head kick of her won then Fiorot ties up. They fight in the clinch before breaking. Side kick from Fiorot, then she lands a left to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Fiorot

ROUND TWO: They trade lefts then Fiorot lands a side kick. Maia forces a clinch but Fiotor hits an harai goshi/whizzer kick and lands on top in half guard. Fiorot lands some elbows as Maia gets full guard and closes it. Maia tries to work her guard up high, Fiorot is following the hips and keeping her square thus far. Hammer fists from Fiorot, Maia tries to tie up a leg and they fight up to the feet and clinch up again. Maia is after a single leg against the fence, she gets a trip but Fiorot posts on an arm and is able to hip toss Maia around and Fiorot lands on top again. Some elbows from Maia, Fiorot lands body shots then a hammer fist and she stands free. Fiorot lands a right hook then a side kick. Side kick to the knee from Fiorot then they trade rights. Maia keeps walking into a right hook and Fiorot angles away. Fiorot lands a side kick to the knee then gets a takedown but Maia pops right back up this time and lands a head kick as they break. Maia is coming forward again but Fiorot side kicks the body again to maintain distance. Fiorot lands a right hook. Another side kick from Fiorot then a right hand. They circle away the final seconds.

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

ROUND THREE: Maia lands a right hand. Fiorot lands another side kick then a right hook. Maia is trying to force the issue but she’s struggling to reliably close distance. They clinch up and hit the fence. Fiorot is able to shove her off and get free. A left from Fiorot lands then she lands a side kick. Bit of a right from Fiorot. One two from Fiorot. Another side kick to the knee from Fiorot. Maia walks into another right hook. Maia clinches up after a side kick and spins Fiorot down but Fiorot pivots through and stands back up though they’re still clinched. Fiorot is able to spin free and reset. More side kicks from Fiorot then they trade power hand punches. Jumping knee from Fiorot partially lands. Fiorot lands another right hook. Maia lands a body kick. Fiorot with a side kick to the body then they trade rights. Bit of a body kick from Fiorot then a left hand. Maia eats a hook kick and forces a clinch. Fiorot gets Maia on the fence, they start fighting for position then break apart. Bit of a right from Fiorot. Maia blocks a high kick and lands an inside leg kick. Fiorot misses a wheel kick. They trade rights, Maia keeps pushing forward but wont find another connection before the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Manon Fiorot via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Mic time for Fiorot and her translator after that win, she puts over Maia as a tough experienced opponent and laments the lack of a finish. She notes she’s not just a striker and is happy to show off more of her skills. Asked about the future she calls out Katlyn Chookagian, which isn’t unreasonable.

Aliaskhab Khizriev is undefeated coming into his UFC debut, in fact he spent all of 2021 trying to get that first UFC fight but had four different bouts fall through. Now Khizriev is looking to remain perfect and make a good first impression. Denis Tiuliulin is coming into his UFC debut off of a win but he’s been out of action for a little over a year, now he’s looking to get that all important first UFC win under his belt. Khizriev is the biggest favorite on the whole card at -1250 to a +750 comeback for Tiuliulin.

Middleweight Bout: Aliaskhab Khizriev (13-0, 185 lbs.) vs. Denis Tiuliulin (10-5, 185.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Tiuliulin is four inches taller with three inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Khizriev, they touch gloves to get us going. A loud “USA” chant, the crowd is booing both men because they’re Russian. They trade power hand punches. Khizriev lands a body kick. Tiuliulin is punching and backing Khizriev but he gets a bit predictable and Khizriev hits a single leg and gets Tiuliulin down. Tiuliulin scoots to the fence and Khizriev starts working to land blows. Wall walk attempt from Tiuliulin but Khizriev is stripping his posting limbs and moves to mount the legs. Khizriev lands a few punches while keeping Tiuliulin seated on the fence. More punches from Khizriev but Tiuliulin is able to get up though Khizriev hits a mat return. Khizriev lands some punches while keeping Tiuliulin on a knee in the ride position. Tiuliulin is able to wall walk and circle free. Bit of a right from Tiuliulin then they trade in the pocket. Khizriev lands a left hand. One two from Tiuliulin. Some body shots from Tiuliulin then Khizriev lands a body kick. More pressure from Tiuliulin, he’s got Khizriev on the fence and they trade punches. Tiuliulin avoids a double leg. Khizriev lands an uppercut then avoids a takedown. They clinch up and then break, Tiuliulin blocks a head kick to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Khizriev

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Tiuliulin lands a right hand. Bit of a head kick from Khizriev then he lands a knee to the body. Tiuliulin keeps pressing forward and lands a couple of punches. They trade power hand punches. Tiuliulin is backing Khizriev up, they trade lefts. Tiuliulin avoids an elbow and lands a couple of punches. Khizriev lands a left hand. Tiuliulin lands a couple of body shots. Khizriev lands a body kick. Single leg from Khizriev, he has to scramble around to the back but he gets there with both hooks and locks up the choke. Tiuliulin tries to fight the hands, but he wont make any headway and goes to sleep rather than tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Aliaskhab Khizriev via Technical Submission, rear naked choke, at 1:58 of Round 2

Mic time for Khizriev and his translator, he says this was a great debut, thanks his parents, then says he’d like to drop down a weight class and start smashing everybody. He talks us through the finish, noting he wanted to take a bit of time and puts over Tiuliulin for taking the fight on short notice.

This doesn’t show how slick the choke application was, Khizriev snuck it in as his second hook was going in. He basically gave Tiuliulin no chance to address either the position or the choke threat, then put him to sleep.

Chris Gutierrez has only lost to Raoni Barcelos in the UFC and is on a six fight unbeaten streak since that loss, bringing his UFC record to 5-1-1. Gutierrez looks to extend that streak here and start taking aim at some bigger names in the division. Danaa Batgerel has gone 3-1 in the UFC and is on a three fight winning streak with all of those wins being first round stoppages, he’s likewise trying to make headway in the stacked bantamweight division and hopefully get a shot at bigger fights going forward. Danaa is the favorite at -135 to +115 for Gutierrez.

Bantamweight Bout: Danaa Batgerel (12-2, 136 lbs.) vs. Chris Gutierrez (17-4-2, 135 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Gutierrez is two inches taller but Danaa has three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Danaa lands a couple of calf kicks. Gutierrez lands a leg kick of his own. Danaa is punching forward, they trade calf kicks again. A bit of stance switching from Gutierrez now as they feint around each other. Gutierrez lands a left then a calf kick. Danaa misses a right hand. Bit of a right from Danaa. Gutierrez avoids a clinch. Danaa lands a calf kick. Gutierrez eats a right, then Danaa backs him into the fence and lands another one. They clinch up then break as Danaa lands an elbow. Both men land some jabs. Gutierrez lands a body kick. Danaa jabs the body then has a right hand blocked. Bit of a left from Danaa. Gutierrez avoids a left hook but he’s on the fence a lot so far. Danaa lands a right. They clinch up again and hit the fence. They break and trade rights. Danaa jabs the body again. Gutierrez lands a leg kick and a jab. Danaa has started switching his stance as well. Bit of a right from Danaa. Danaa avoids a spinning attack and hits a mat return then starts landing blows from the ride position. Gutierrez covers up and finally rolls to get full guard as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Danaa

ROUND TWO: Danaa starts backing Gutierrez up as the round begins. Both men land leg kicks. Body kick from Gutierrez. Danaa lands a right hand. Gutierrez is being forced into the fence again, he lands a one two. Danaa lands a right hand. Bit of a right from Danaa. Gutierrez lands a jab and avoids the counters. Bit of a leg kick from Gutierrez. The persistent head hunting from Danaa is becoming a problem. Gutierrez lands a few jabs. Danaa lands a front kick to the body. Spinning back fist from Gutierrez lands and floors Danaa, then he jumps on top and pounds things out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Chris Gutierrez via TKO, spinning back fist and elbows, at 2:34 of Round 2

Mic time for Gutierrez, he says the win feels good but he’s trying to better himself as a human being. He puts over his coaches and team mates, and says you can keep chasing a dream even if it gets taken away at one point. He talks us through the finish, he’s been working the spinning attack all camp. Asked about the future he just wants to enjoy the win and give love to his parents. He puts over his mom who beat cancer recently.

Here’s the finish. Danaa gets a bit too predictable in terms of following Gutierrez, and if you know where your opponent will be that can open up devastating attacks.

Sara McMann is an Olympic silver medalist in wrestling and a former title challenger in the UFC, but she’s just 1-3 in her last four fights and is coming off of a loss. McMann is hoping to extend her already lengthy UFC tenure by getting a much needed win. Karol Rosa is on a six fight winning streak including four wins in the UFC, she’s been building some momentum during that time and if she can take out McMann it’ll be the second former title challenger she’ll have stepped over which should put her squarely into the top ten contenders list. The odds are with Rosa at -235 while a McMann win would payout at +190.

Women’s Bantamweight Bout: #9 Sara McMann (12-6, 135 lbs.) vs. #12 Karol Rosa (15-3, 135 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: McMann is an inch taller while Rosa has an inch and a half of reach advantage in addition to being 14 years younger. They touch gloves to get us going. Some feinting from both women as they circle. Rosa lands a bit of a left. Glancing right from Rosa. McMann lands a right. They trade punches in close. McMann catches a kick and gets a double leg takedown. Rosa is trying to hit a switch but McMann smothers her and gets on top in half guard. Some elbows from McMann land. Impressive shoulder pressure from McMann, she’s trying to get some wrist control but Rosa is aware of it and is defending her arm. McMann lands some body shots, she’s trying to set up the arm triangle but Rosa is keeping her arm pinned to her body. Rosa gets her arm free and looks to control McMann’s posture. McMann lands some short elbows. McMann lands a right hand then another elbow to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 McMann

ROUND TWO: Both women show front kicks but neither connects. They punch into a clinch, McMann lands knees to the body before Rosa gets free and Rosa lands a right hand. Bit of a body shot from McMann. Rosa misses a couple of punches. Single leg from McMann, she gets the back then hits a mat return and starts working for the back. One hook in for McMann, now both hooks and she starts working from the back. Rosa is hand fighting and looking to set up a spin into McMann’s guard but McMann is keeping the position. Body triangle now for McMann. McMann goes for an armbar from the back, Rosa tries to stack her up and keep the arm from being extended. Rosa tries to fire knees to the legs, and she’ll keep her arm safe until the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Rosa comes out with a flying knee and tries to brawl but McMann hits a double leg quickly then moves to the back again. McMann is working from the ride position, she lands some hammer fists as Rosa wall walks. Rosa is up and McMann is now in the backpack position. McMann bails on the back to hit a throw then lands punches as Rosa wall walks again. Some knees from McMann as she works from the back. Rosa hits a really nice hip toss and gets on top, McMann kicks her upright and lands a few up kicks before Rosa gets back on top in full guard. McMann kicks Rosa off again, again Rosa comes back to the mat. Rosa lands some punches from full guard. McMann kicks Rosa off again, Rosa misses a punch as she goes back into the guard. Rosa is standing over McMann again, looking to come down but McMann comes up on a single leg and switches to a double leg against the fence. Things are stalling on the fence, they trade some knees, Rosa tries a hip toss but McMann rolls with her and gets on top with a front headlock. They fight up and end the fight in the clinch.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rosa, 29-28 McMann overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Sara McMann via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

One of McMann’s better overall outings. No interview for the winner though.

That does it for the prelims, though we’re still on ESPN and ESPN+ for the main card.

Marc Diakiese has gone just 2-5 in his last seven fights and is on a two fight losing streak, he badly needs a win as another three fight losing streak could spell the end of his UFC tenure. Viacheslav Borschev is on a four fight winning streak including a successful UFC debut in January of this year, now he’s trying to build on that momentum and earn his first UFC winning streak. The odds are close but favor Borschev at -155 to +125 on Diakiese.

Lightweight Bout: Viacheslav Borshchev (6-1, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Marc Diakiese (14-5, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Borshchev is an inch taller while Diakiese has four inches of reach advantage. Diakiese misses a leg kick. Borshchev stifles a double leg attempt and they hit the fence. Diakiese is still after a takedown but Borshchev gets him on the fence. Borshchev avoids a trip attempt. Diakiese tries another double leg but Borshchev slips to the back standing and lands a knee then a few punches as they break. Borshchev lands a body shot in close, Diakiese tries a double leg but Borshchev rolls him through then they wind up clinched on the fence again. Diakiese finally hits a double leg against the fence into half guard. Borshchev lands a few elbows and starts looking to wall walk. Diakiese moves to the ride position, Borshchev does wall walk but he’s mat returned by Diakiese. Another wall walk from Borshchev and Diakiese hits another mat return. Borshchev rolls forward and tries for guard, then scrambles around but Diakiese gets side control. Borshchev hip escapes to full guard, and they’ll end the round there.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese

ROUND TWO: Borshchev lands a jab to the body then a calf kick. Another calf kick from Borshchev. Diakiese keeps feinting takedowns. Borshchev blocks a double leg but Diakiese sticks with the attempt and moves to the back then drags Borshchev down to the mat. Side control for Diakiese. Borshchev shrimps and gets full guard. Diakiese moves to half guard then gets the ride position as Borshchev looks to stand. Borshchev lands a few back elbows but Diakiese pulls him back down and gets on top in side control. Diakiese to the ride position again, Borshchev tries a granby roll then is able to get up against the fence. Borshchev isn’t addressing the hands of Diakiese though and Diakiese hits a mat return. Borshchev tries another roll, then stands but still can’t get free. Diakiese pulls Borshchev down from the back again and is in half guard. Borshchev gets to his knees and Diakiese lands knees to the leg and continues riding Borshchev as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese, would be 10-8 under the new rules, 20-18 Diakiese overall

ROUND THREE: Borshchev starts pushing Diakiese back, he knows he needs a finish. Both men are showing off stance switches. Diakiese hits a double leg in open space. Borshchev has full guard. Diakiese is trying to handcuff one of Borshchev’s hands but he can’t keep the wrist control. Borshchev kicks Diakiese off, but Diakiese dives right back into a takedown and starts working along the fence. Diakiese slips to the back and hits a mat return. Borshchev fights to his feet but Diakiese is riding him back down. A lot of control for Diakiese, he lands a few short rights then a knee to the leg. Borshchev is back up, and mat returned again. Diakiese gets on top and is in leg drag, then moves to side control. Borshchev is trying to shrimp but he wont find anything as Diakiese rides out the clock in top position.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese, another borderline 10-8, 30-27 Diakiese overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marc Diakiese via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Mic time for Diakiese, he feels like he’s still a prospect and that he’s back and ready to go. He says he doesn’t get tired, he gets stronger as the fight goes on and he’s still here still learning. Asked about the future he says he’d like to fight Drew Dober. Reasonable call out.

Neil Magny has gone 4-1 in his last five fights, only dropping a bout with Micheal Chiesa last year and he comes into this fight off the back of a win. Magny is trying to defend his top ranking and start making another push through the welterweight rankings. Max Griffin seems to have found his footing in the UFC at last, he’s on a three fight winning streak and now gets a shot at ranked opposition. If Griffin can win here it’ll be the biggest of his career and should see him enter the official rankings. Magny is a rather heavy -290 favorite to a tempting +230 payout on Griffin.

Welterweight Bout: Max Griffin (18-8, 171 lbs.) vs. #9 Neil Magny (25-8, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Magny has four inches of height and reach over Griffin. Both men come out kicking. Magny is showing stance switches. Griffin cracks Magny with a right. Magny lands a leg kick, Griffin returns it. Both men land rights then Griffin lands a calf kick. Griffin lands another calf kick. Bit of a body shot from Griffin, Magny tries to get it back and Griffin floors him with a right hand then makes Magny stand back up. Griffin starts stalking Magny, Magny is still a little dazed. Body shot from Griffing then another calf kick. Magny seems to have regained himself and he starts landing jabs. Griffin lands a calf kick. Another calf kick from Griffin. Magny lands a jab. Bit of a right from Magny. Griffin lands a left hook. More calf kicks from Griffin as he’s circling. Magny lands a one two. More jabs from Magny, Griffin lands a body shot. Bit of a right from Griffin to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Griffin

ROUND TWO: Both men come out jabbing, then Griffin lands a right hand and a calf kick. Inside leg kick from Griffin. Griffin avoids a clinch attempt. Magny is pressing forward a lot more this round. Griffin lands a body kick. Magny blocks a few punches. Leg kick from Griffin, then another one. Magny complains of an eye poke so we’ve got a timeout. Replay confirms the poke, but Magny doesn’t take too long until we’re back to fighting. Griffin lands a right hand. Side kick from Magny lands. Combination from Griffin lands, then he jabs the body. Stiff jab from Griffin. Griffin landsa right. Magny lands a couple of jabs then a combination but Griffin avoids a takedown attempt. More jabs from Magny then Griffin lands a right hand and a calf kick. Magny lands a right and clinches up, Griffin is defending and they trade when they break. Both men land jabs then Magny lands a right. Griffin lands a right that seems to stagger Magny for a second. Magny lands a left. Griffin jabs the body, then Magny forces a clinch and they’ll end the round in the clinch with Magny landing a few blows.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Magny, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Griffin lands a one two to start the round. They get close and trade rights. Magny gets a clinch and lands a knee then they hit the fence. Magny slips around to the back, Griffin gets back chest to chest. Some lefts from Magny as he moves to the back standing again. Magny drags Griffin down to the mat and gets one hook on. More punches from Magny as he looks to open up a choke attack. Magny loses the hook but he’s still on the back. Griffin is too tired to really fight the position the way he needs to. Magny gets both hooks in but he’s too high and Griffin shakes him off then comes up on the back. A double wrist lock from Magny breaks the grip of Griffin and he lands a knee from the clinch. Again Magny slips around and unloads with knees and elbows. Griffin lands punches and tries his own takedown but that stalls out. Magny tries a piledriver, doesn’t spike Griffin, and they trade a few punches as the clock runs out.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Magny, borderline 10-8, 29-28 Magny overall

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

I don’t fully understand 29-28 for Griffin but I guess the second was close enough. Mic time for Magny, who’s now tied Georges St-Pierre in terms of all time welterweight wins. Magny felt he’d done enough to win and says the plan was to wrestle earlier but the footwork from Griffin stifled him. Asked about the future he wants to fight Khamzat Chimaev next.

Askar Askarov is undefeated as a professional including being undefeated in four UFC fights, the only blemish being a draw with future champion Brandon Moreno in Askarov’s UFC debut. Askarov is coming off of a win over Joseph Benavidez and one has to imagine another win tonight would earn him a shot at the flyweight title. Kai Kara-France is on a two fight winning streak but critically both of those are first round finishes and his most recent was an impressive win over former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt. Kara-France is also staring down the likelihood of a title shot if he can be the first man to beat Askarov. The odds are with Askarov at a shockingly heavy -490 while the +360 comeback on Kara-France has to be a tempting value bet.

Flyweight Bout: #2 Askar Askarov (14-0-1, 126 lbs.) vs. #6 Kai Kara-France (23-9 1 NC, 125.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Askarov is two inches taller while Kara-France has two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Askarov. Kara-France starts showing the jab early as they circle. They clash on kicks. Inside leg kick from Kara-France, bit of a counter right from Askarov. Single leg from Askarov, he lifts Kara-France but can’t dump him then switches to a tree top and sweeps him down. Askarov moves to side control right away. Kara-France tries to spin, but gives up the back with both hooks in. Askarov goes to a body triangle and starts looking for a choke. A few punches from Askarov land. Kara-France moves to stand, he’s up but Askarov is on his back in the backpack position. Askarov keeps fishing for the choke, he’s nearly got it but Kara-France is hand fighting well enough thus far. A few more punches land for Askarov then some elbows as well but he wont find the choke before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Askarov

ROUND TWO: Kara-France comes out jabbing again, and misses a right hand. Askarov avoids a right hand. Some stance switching from both men, then Kara-France lands a right hand. Front kick from Askarov then he tries a single leg against the fence. Trip from Askarov and he gets on the back again. Kara-France wall walks then turns to face Askarov and slips free. Calf kick from Kara-France. Askarov feints a takedown then avoids some punches. Iniside leg kick from Askarov. Kara-France lands a left hand. Askarov avoids a few punches then starts backing Kara-France up. Single leg from Askarov as they’re on the fence and he starts working to finish it but Kara-France defends and slips free. They trade rights then Kara-France lands a left hook. Both men land punches but Kara-France is getting the better of this. Kara-France lands a left hook. Askarov lands a bit of a right. A few punches from Kara-France land in close. Askarov starts coming forward, eats an inside leg kick as the last relevant blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kara-France, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the last round. Bit of a right from Askarov. Inside leg kick from Askarov lands, Kara-France complains of a low blow and we’ve got a timeout. Replay shows maybe a toe landed on the groin but the bulk of that kick was thigh. Kara-France takes 55 seconds then we’re back to fighting. Glancing high kick from Kara-France, Askarov returns it. Bit of a right from Askrarov then he ties up and forces a clinch on the fence. Askarov gets to the back standing and works knees to the leg. Now Askarov climbs onto the back and gets a body triangle, that was kind of awesome how he did that. Kara-France is able to sling Askarov off of his back but he can’t get free. Askarov is on another single attempt, he can’t find it though and lands a right hand when they break. More pressure from Askarov. Kara-France lands a right hand. Askarov keeps coming forward and lands a right of his own. They trade rights. Kara-France lands a right. Askarov lands a right hand and avoids some punches. Kara-France tries a takedown but Askarov defends with ease. Askarov tries a single leg, he drives Kara-France into the fence and then lands a right hand to close the round.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Kai Kara-France via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

The third was close but I don’t agree with that one. Mic time for Kara-France, he plays with the crowd then says he’s the best in the world before playing with the crowd again. He says he’s prepared for anything in the fight and says you’ve got to entertain as well. He talks us through some highlights then says he wants the next title shot.

Matt Brown just broke a two fight losing streak when he knocked out Dhiego Lima last year, now he’s trying for his first winning streak since 2019 while building his legacy as a fan friendly fighter. Bryan Barberena has gone 2-3 in his last five fights but he’s coming off of a win and will be looking for his first winning streak since 2016. This one closed at a -110 pick ’em.

Welterweight Bout: Bryan Barberena (16-8, 170.5 lbs.) vs. Matt Brown (23-18, 170.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Brown has two and a half inches of reach in addition to being 9 years older. Southpaw for Barberena. Both men come out swinging before settling down. Some leg kicks go back and forth. Brown lands a jab. Barberena lands an inside leg kick. Left from Barberena connects. Brown is pressing forward and foot sweeps Barberena down then lands elbows and a knee once Barberena gets up in the clinch. Both men land elbows in the clinch then Brown hits an outside trip and lands in side control. Barberena moves to his knees and works to wall walk. Brown works from the ride position as Barberena gets up then they break. Barberena lands a left. Brown lands a right hand. Both men miss rights. Barberena lands an inside leg kick. Brown lands a Body kick then a bit of an elbow to follow up. Barberena avoids a right hand. Bit of a body kick from Brown. They trade power hand punches. Another clinch, another sweep from Brown then he lands knees and punches as Barberena gets up. They get close and trade elbows as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Brown

ROUND TWO: Both men with some kicks as the round begins. Brown lands a body kick. Barberena lands a jab. Barberena starts coming forward, he lands some leg kicks then Brown lands a right to the body. Another body shot from Brown then he avoids a punch and hits a double leg into half guard against the fence. Brown lands some rights as he’s looking to pass towards the full mount. Barberena wall walks then they start fighting in the clinch. Elbows go back and forth in the clinch then they break and trade punches. Barberena lands a body shot then eats a left hook. Brown keeps coming forward and they clinch again, then Barberena lands an elbow as they break that hurts Brown. Barberena keeps coming forward now, they trade punches then Brown hits a takedown into side control. Brown gets the back but he’s way too high, Brown is after something but I can’t quite see what. OK, it’s an armbar and Barberena gets his arm free then comes up on top and lands body shots and elbows to the head. Brown fights up to his feet and they resume trading in the clinch then break. Barberena lands a couple of rights then a left hand. They clinch up and trade again. Brown lands a right then Barberena lands a left hand. Elbow from Brown. Barberena lands a couple of rights then a body shot. Brown digs the body as well and they trade in close with Barberena getting the better of things as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Barberena, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the last round. Brown lands a couple of body kicks. Barberena pushes forward and lands a left hand. Some punches from Brown land. Brown digs the body but Barberena lands a counter right. Barberena lands a few punches in close then a right hook that stuns Brown for a second. Brown keeps pushing forward and lands body attacks in close. Barberena lands an elbow in close. They tie up and Brown lands an elbow then sweeps Barberena down. Brown is working from a front headlock, they trade elbows as Barberena regains his feet. Brown is on the back again and he rides Barberena down to a knee. Some knees to the thigh from Brown. Barberena fights up and they trade in close before Barberena lands a left hook. Brown lands a head kick, they trade body shots then clinch again. This has been grueling. Brown punches into another clinch and they trade, then Barberena lands a left as they break. Double leg from Brown and he lands in side control. Barberena explodes to his feet and lands elbows in close then some punches. Uppercut from Barberena, and another one. Brown is tired and taking punches, but he plants and lands a right hand. Barberena lands a right then Brown lands a left hook. This is nuts. Both men land punches then Barberena digs the body. Barberena avoids a spin and drives Brown into the fence then lands rights. Bit of a head kick from Barberena as they break. Both men land rights, we’ve just got a brawl breaking out for the final seconds. Barberena unloads with a long flurry but Brown wont fall down before the round ends.

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

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

Great fight, and the third round decided it, no issues with 29-28 for either man. The crowd isn’t happy. Barberena gets an interview and is showered with boos, he says this was everything he dreamed of and Brown gave him everything he wanted for this fight. He puts over Brown then thanks the crowd for caring about the fight, and he loves them even if they hate him right now.

Joanne Wood has gone just 1-3 in her last four fights and is on a two fight losing streak, if she wants to retain her top ranking she needs to halt that streak here. Alexa Grasso is 2-0 since moving to flyweight and now if she can get to three in a row here she’ll be pretty firmly in the title picture given how thin the top of flyweight is when it comes to fresh contenders. Grasso is the -275 favorite to a +220 comeback on Wood.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: #9 Alexa Grasso (13-3, 125 lbs.) vs. #7 Joanne Wood (15-7, 125 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Wood is an inch taller while Grasso has half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Grasso lands a combination. Wood is stalking forward, Grasso is happy to circle and counter. Grasso lands another combination then gets a takedown into full guard. Some body shots from Grasso as she spins Wood away from the fence. More body to head punches from Grasso. Both women are landing blows but things are otherwise stalling out. Wood scoots to the fence and they separate. Grasso lands a right hand. They trade jabs then Wood lands a leg kick. Bit of a combination from Wood. Grasso lands a left hook. Lefts go back and forth, Wood lands a calf kick then Grasso fires a counter combination. Grasso avoids a high kick. Spinning attack from Wood but Grasso smothers it and gets the back then rides Wood to the mat. Grasso goes for a choke, she’s got it in and Wood has to tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alexa Grasso via Submission, rear naked choke, at 3:57 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Ms. Grasso for her work this evening. Mic time for Grasso, she plays with the crowd then is happy to have gotten her first submission win. She talks us through the finish, noting how hard she’s worked on her grappling to deal with the aggressive striker. Asked about the future she puts over the UFC matchmaker and trusts whatever is offered to her.

Here’s the finish. This is a good example of how and why you switch side to side with your choking arm, here it only takes one iteration but ideally that’s all it takes.

Curtis Blaydes has gone 5-1 in his last six fights, a loss to Derrick Lewis last year derailed his title aspirations but he bounced back with a win and now is trying to build another winning streak and again make his case for being in the title picture. Chris Daukaus just had a five fight winning streak snapped by Derrick Lewis, now he’s trying to avoid his first ever losing streak and prove he’s still a top level contender in the division. Blaydes is a heavy -550 favorite to +400 on Daukaus.

Heavyweight Bout: #4 Curtis Blaydes (15-3 1 NC, 259 lbs.) vs. #9 Chris Daukaus (12-4, 243 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Blaydes is an inch taller with four inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Blaydes starts showing the jab, Daukaus lands a right hand. Leg kick from Blaydes. Daukaus lands another right hand. Blaydes keeps showing the jab then lands a leg kick. Daukaus lands a right to the body. Bladyes lands a right hand. Both men fall short on a few punches. A lot of circling from both men now, they’re looking for angles and both are aware that they’ve got five rounds to work. Bit of a combination from Daukaus. Blaydes lands a jab. Both men have started showing stance switches. There’s a small cut around the left eye of Daukaus, doesn’t look too bad from this angle. Daukaus lands a right hand to counter a jab. Blaydes lands a jab. Daukaus lands a right hand. We get a timeout as Daukaus got poked in the eye but he only takes 25 seconds as replay confirms the thumb of Blaydes accidentally went into the eye. Nothing else will happen before the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Blaydes

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Blaydes clobbers Daukaus with a right hand, then jumps on his back and pounds things out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Curtis Blaydes via TKO, punches, at :17 of Round 2

Mic time for Blaydes, he thinks he deserves an interim title shot against Gane at some point during the summer. He says he wanted to make a statement with this fight, he knew that his opponent looking for the takedown would open up the punches. Cormier brings up that Stipe Miocic is in the building, and Blaydes says he wants to be just like him and that might mean he has to beat him, and puts Miocic over some more.

Well on that note UFC on ESPN+ 63 comes to a close. There’s no UFC event next week, I imagine they’re staying out of the way of WrestleMania, but in two weeks we’re back on PPV for Alexander Volkanovski vs. Chan Sung Jung and the bantamweight title rematch between Aljamain Sterling and Petr Yan. We’ll unpack all of the results from this card, plus talk about some of the crazy news of the week on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast tomorrow. Until next time everyone I thank you again for reading, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

More Trending Stories

article topics :

UFC Fight Night, UFC on ESPN+ 63, Robert Winfree

More Stories

loading