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411’s UFC Fight Night Report: Thompson Stops Holland

December 4, 2022 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC on ESPN 42 Image Credit: UFC

MAIN CARD (ESPN/ESPN+, 10 p.m. ET)
#6 Stephen Thompson (170 lbs.) vs. Kevin Holland (170.5 lbs.)
Bryan Barberena (170.5 lbs.) vs. Rafael dos Anjos (170 lbs.)
#6 Matheus Nicolau (126 lbs.) vs. #7 Matt Schnell (126 lbs.)
#5 Sergei Pavlovich (255 lbs.) vs. #4 Tai Tuivasa (266 lbs.)
Roman Dolidze (185.5 lbs.) vs. #8 Jack Hermansson (186 lbs.)
Eryk Anders (186 lbs.) vs. Kyle Daukaus (184.5 lbs.)
Niko Price (170 lbs.) vs. Phil Rowe (173.5 lbs.)*

PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN/ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET)
#13 Emily Ducote (115.5 lbs.) vs. #12 Angela Hill (115.5 lbs.)
Clay Guida (154.5 lbs.) vs. Scott Holtzman (155.5 lbs.)
Marc Diakiese (155.5 lbs.) vs. Michael Johnson (156 lbs.)
Darren Elkins (145 lbs.) vs. Jonathan Pearce (146 lbs.)
Natan Levy (156 lbs.) vs. Genaro Valdez (156 lbs.)
Francis Marshall (145 lbs.) vs. Marcelo Rojo (145 lbs.)
Yazmin Jauregui (115.5 lbs.) vs. Istela Nunes (114.5 lbs.)


Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC on ESPN 42, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening. 2022 is coming to a close but we’ve still got a couple of UFC events before they pack it in for the year. Tonight we’ve got a pretty good Fight Night style card, our main event sees former two time welterweight title challenger Stephen Thompson trying to defend his ranking against Kevin Holland. Our co-main event has action written all over it when Bryan Barberena takes on former champion and somewhat forgotten great of the fight game Rafael dos Anjos. Elsewhere on the card we’ve got top flyweights Matheus Nicolau and Matt Schnell, heavyweights Tai Tuivasa and Sergei Pavlovich, and a big step up moment for surging talent Roman Dolidze when he steps up on short notice against top ten contender Jack Hermansson. The prelims are loaded with recognizable names like Angela Hill, Clay Guida, Michael Johnson, and Darren Elkins. So let’s all hope we get action that’s at least commensurate with what we see on paper.

UFC on ESPN 42 comes to the world from the Amway Center in Orlando, Florida, USA. We’ve got Jon Anik, Daniel Cormier, and Michael Bisping on commentary while Megan Olivi does the roving reporter bit. As for the rules I believe Florida uses the newer set, so you need both palms or fists on the mat to be downed and they use the newer scoring criteria. I’m unsure about instant replay specifically but if the broadcast updates us I will update you as well. Also keep in mind that we’re in the bigger 30 foot cage instead of the 25 footer at the Apex facility.

Yazmin Jauregui is undefeated including a successful UFC debut a few months ago, now she’s trying to remain perfect and solidify herself as a prospect of note. Istela Nunes has gone 0-2 in the UFC with loses to Ariane Carnelossi and Sam Hughes, she needs a win pretty badly as an 0-3 start might end her time with the promotion. Unsurprisingly Jauregui is a significant favorite at -325 to a +270 comeback for Nunes.

Strawweight Bout: Yazmin Jauregui (9-0, 115.5) vs. Istela Nunes (6-3, 114.5)

ROUND ONE: Nunes is an inch taller with two inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Some jabs from both women, just range finding at the moment. The “woo’s” have begun already, God help us. Jauregui lands a couple of right hands. Nunes lands a right hand that drops Jauregui, but Jauregui bounces up and they clinch then break. Both women block punches. More forward pressure from Jauregui, she’s back to work and doesn’t seem deterred by getting dropped. Nunes avoids some punches. A combination from Jauregui lands. Knee from Nunes in close. Nunes lands a left hook. Bit of a calf kick from Jauregui. Jauregui tries a double leg, can’t finish it and Nunes spins free then fires a head kick. A lot of strikes fall short from both women. Nunes lands a leg kick. Bit of a counter left hook from Nunes as she avoids a rush from Jauregui. Jauregui lands a left hand. Another combination from Jauregui lands, she’s starting to find the target more now. They trade lefts in close to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Nunes

ROUND TWO: Jauregui gets back to pressure and firing combinations. A few leg kicks from Jauregui as they move around. Nunes lands a right hand. Jauregui lands a combination, then drops Nunes with a right hand. A flurry from Jauregui but Nunes is able to survive and clinch up on the fence. Elbows from Jauregui land as they break. Another right from Jauregui drops Nunes, she gets on top and looks to unload while Nunes closes her guard. Jauregui lands some hammer fists and short elbows. More strikes from Jauregui, Nunes has some serious swelling around her left eye from all these punches. Jauregui keeps unloading with punches and elbows, she’s got Nunes stacked up and the ref decides to stop things.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Yazmin Jauregui via TKO, punches and elbows, at 4:06 of Round 2

Mic time for Jauregui and the translator, she knew the fight would be tough and puts over Nunes then thanks the fans for their support.

You can see the swelling starting on the face of Nunes, she’d been stuck in this kind of position for a few minutes at this point and the ref decided he’d seen enough. Not my favorite stoppage ever but I absolutely get it and I don’t hate it at all.

Marcelo Rojo has gone 0-2 in the UFC with more canceled bouts than successful trips to the cage, he’s been out of action for 10 months and now looks to get that all important first UFC win under his belt. Francis Marshall is undefeated coming into his UFC debut and is trying to capitalize on his only chance to make a good first impression. Marshall is your -165 favorite against Rojo’s +140.

Featherweight Bout: Francis Marshall (6-0, 145 lbs.) vs. Marcelo Rojo (16-8, 145 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Marshall has an inch of height and reach advantage, he’s also nine years younger. They touch gloves to get us going. Both men do some probing with the lead hand then Rojo lands a calf kick. Counter one two from Rojo then another calf kick. Another calf kick from Rojo. Left hook from Rojo. Marshall is really struggling to get going, he eats another calf kick then a right hand. Some jabs from Marshall are getting through, but he eats another solid calf kick. Rojo blocks a double leg and lands an elbow but as he’s trying to separate Marshall lands a right hand that drops him. Marshall tries to follow up but winds up tied up in a clinch. Rojo keeps grabbing the fence, no point is taken and Marshall finishes a takedown anyway. Some elbows from Rojo’s back as Marshall looks to pass. Marshall moves to half guard. Now side control for Marshall. Some elbows to the body from Marshall as Rojo scrambles to his knees. Rojo lands an up elbow and a few more as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Marshall

ROUND TWO: Both men come out jabbing and looking to reset. Rojo lands a calf kick, then tries a body kick but that strays into the groin so we’ve got a time out. We get back to fighting after 30 seconds. Bit of a right from Marshall as he’s back to forward pressure. Rojo lands a body kick then a right hand. Front kick from Rojo. Marshall lands a combination, they trade in close and Marshall drops Rojo then is able to pound him out on the mat this time.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Francis Marshall via KO, punches, at 1:14 of Round 2

Mic time for Marshall after that one, he says this is a dream come true. He talks us through the fight and mentions he expected a bit more grappling and wasn’t sure he’d be able to get the finish standing.

Here’s a look at the finish. Rojo was a bit out gunned and seemed to realize it, deciding to go out swinging. They’re breaking the clinch and Rojo isn’t even being reckless here, he’s just a bit off balance and can’t get behind his left shoulder which means Marshall can find a punching lane to his chin with that right hook.

Natan Levy has gone 1-1 in the UFC but he’s coming off of a win and now looks to build his first UFC winning streak as he heads into the new year. Genaro Valdez dropped his UFC debut back in January of this year, now as we reach December he’s back in action and trying to get that critical first UFC win. Levy is a rather large favorite at -200 while the +170 payout for Valdez might tempt a few bettors out there.

Lightweight Bout: Natan Levy (7-1, 156 lbs.) vs. Genaro Valdez (10-1, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Valdez has an inch of reach advantage. Southpaw for Levy, and they touch gloves to get things going. Both men probe with leg kicks. Levy misses a head kick. Leg kick from Levy. Levy lands a body kick. Valdez falls short with a few punches then eats another body kick. Right to the body from Valdez. Both men have kicks and punches either blocked or fall short. Bit of a body kick from Levy. Levy lands an inside leg kick. Both men land rights. Some front kicks from Valdez, those are starting to add up a little bit. Levy lands a body kick, then eats a counter one two. Calf kick from Levy. Both men miss punches. Levy lands a right hand that drops Valdez, but Valdez is able to fight back to his feet. Hook kick from Levy drops Valdez again, but he fires back with a right hand that backs Levy off. Levy lands a spinning back kick to the body, then a powerful body kick that gets Valdez to double over. The body is hurting on Valdez now. Levy lands another body kick, Valdez complains it was low and gets a time out. Replay shows it did glance the cup. Valdez doesn’t want a break and we’re back to fighting, then they trade punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Levy

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Valdez misses a few punches. Levy lands a side kick. Calf kick from Levy, those are adding up as Valdez has visible bruising and discoloration on that calf. Bit of a high kick from Levy. Levy lands a front kick but Valdez lands a couple of counter punches. Valdez is still coming forward, he lands another couple of punches. They trade power hand punches, then Valdez looks to flurry and they tie up. Elbows from Valdez as Levy separates. Levy lands a body kick. Right to the body from Valdez. Glancing head kick from Levy stuns Valdez, then Levy is able to get a takedown and move to the back in the ride position. They wind up on the fence, Valdez gets chest to chest but Levy hits an inside trip to land on top in full guard. Valdez looks to wall walk, but Levy is able to mount his legs. They fight up and Levy with another head kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Valdez, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: We get the doctor coming in to check on the right foot of Valdez, which is badly swollen. I guess we’re OK with this continuing, commentary isn’t happy with the doctor checking as though his foot might not be broken and we might want this stopped. Levy comes out kicking. They trade punches then tie up and break. Levy with a high kick. Valdez keeps coming forward, and Levy lands a leg kick then tries an inside leg kick which apparently goes low. Replay shows the cup got jostled for sure, though most of the impact was on the leg. Valdez is in some pain here as Levy gets a stern warning from the ref. We’re back to fighting after about a minute. Levy lands a body kick. Valdez lands a couple of punches in close. Front kick from Levy lands to the face. They tie up and Levy gets things to the fence but Valdez frantically escapes and resets. Right hand then a left hook from Levy lands. Levy tries a single leg but can’t finish it then lands a body kick. Left hand from Levy. Double leg from Levy is successful. Valdez crawls to the fence but Levy has moved to his back. Levy has the back in the clinch as they stand, and trips Valdez down again. Valdez moves to a knee against the fence but he’s struggling to get up now. Levy with some knees and stomps then sweeps Valdez back down to his knees. Levy finishes the takedown and puts Valdez on his seat. Valdez wall walks but he can’t get free, he grabs the fence very badly as Levy has his back but Levy hits a German suplex to close the round anyway.

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

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

Not sure about that 30-27, but a solid performance overall from Levy. No interview for the winner as we’re pretty busy with the number of fights so interviews are going to be at a bit of a premium.

Darren Elkins has been around for a long time at this point but he’s enjoying a little bit of a resurgence after a four fight losing streak from 2018-2020 as he’s 3-1 in his last four fights and is coming off of a win, another win here would help him remain a relevant fighter in the division. Jonathan Pearce hasn’t lost at featherweight since 2016, he’s 4-0 in the UFC at that weight and here gets a step up in competition as he takes on a very tough veteran. Pearce is one of the biggest favorites on the entire card at -460 to a +370 comeback on Elkins.

Featherweight Bout: Darren Elkins (27-10, 145 lbs.) vs. Jonathan Pearce (13-4, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Pearce is two inches taller though the reach is identical, Pearce is also eight years older. They touch gloves to get us going. Pearce lands a front kick to the face, then another one and a leg kick behind it. Another front kick from Pearce, Elkins ties up and gets a takedown. Pearce scrambles up, Elkins pulls him back down and they wrestle up to the feet then Pearce lands uppercuts before they break. Another front kick form Pearce lands. Bit of a head kick from Pearce. Elkins misses a right hand. Pearce is getting a little predictable with that front kick now and Elkins seems to have the proper defense. Knee from Pearce in close. Some stance switching from Pearce, and he lands another front kick that staggers Elkins. Right hand from Pearce, then a flying knee that mostly misses. Elkins misses badly throwing a punch. Pearce lands a calf kick. Bit of a one two from Pearce. Pearce digs a left to the body. Calf kick from Pearce. Elkins is looking a bit messed up in the face, but actually not as bad as usual. More front kicks from Pearce, he’s going to the body and head now to try and open up offense. Pearce pushes into a clinch and gets a takedown into half guard. Elkins is able to fight to full guard but Pearce lands punches as he does so. The round ends with Pearce on top.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Pearce

ROUND TWO: Pearce opens the second round with a front kick. Elkins forces a clinch, Pearce defends on the fence and lands punches before they break. Both men miss lead hand punches. Pearce lands a front kick but Elkins is starting to force things into boxing range. The right ear of Pearce might be bleeding as the cauliflower there might have popped. They trade in close then Elkins avoids a takedown. Stiff right from Pearce lands. Pearce lands another right, he’s got a read on the boxing now it seems. They get close and both men trade in the pocket before breaking. Pearce hurts Elkins with a calf kick. Elkins gets a clinch and drags things down, he’s on the back a they hit the mat. Pearce lands some elbows and slips out of the hooks then gets on top in half guard. Punches and elbows from Pearce now as Elkins closes his full guard. Elkins tries to attack a leg but Pearce is flowing through those and landing punches. Pearce has Elkins in leg drag now and unloads with some punches. Full guard now for Elkins. Pearce land a couple more elbow strikes then passes the guard with a right hand. Elkins gets his guard back but Pearce keeps unloading on him. Half guard for Pearce now and he lands some more short punches. The round ends with Pearce still on top.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Pearce, 20-17 Pearce overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Pearce lands a calf kick. Another leg kick from Pearce then he avoids a clinch. Both men land punches in close. Bit of a right hook from Pearce. Pearce lands some jabs then a front kick. Body shot from Pearce. Elkins misses a right hand. Bit of a calf kick from Pearce. Inside leg kick from Pearce drops Elkins and Pearce gets on top in full guard. We get a time out as there’s a bad cut from an elbow from Pearce and the doctor is in to check the cut. The cut is up in the hairline so while it’s leaking a lot it’s not a fight stopper. For some reason they reset things on the feet, seems like an error on the refs part. Pearce lands a couple of right hands. Elkins avoids a jumping knee. Jab from Pearce then a front kick. Hard right from Pearce, Elkins does land a counter left. My mistake on that cut, it’s actually around the left eyebrow and is pretty close to the eye. That probably should have been stopped, but I’ll need a better look at the cut as all I’m getting at the moment is location. They trade rights. Pearce lands another right hand. More jabs from Pearce, he’s just kind of piecing up Elkins now. Pearce lands a right hand. Bit of a right from Elkins. They trade in close. Elkins lands a right hand, Pearce responds with a left hook. Some jabs from Pearce then elbows in close that wobble Elkins and Pearce hits a hip toss into top position. Pearce unloads with strikes from on top as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Pearce, 30-26 Pearce overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jonathan Pearce via unanimous decision (30-26, 30-27 x2)

That went about as expected. No interview for Pearce, and Elkins is still visibly bleeding.

Michael Johnson has been with the UFC since 2010 but he’s just 1-5 in his last six fights and was last seen dropping a decision in July, now he’s trying to get back on the winning side of things and prove he’s still a valuable addition to the roster. Marc Diakiese has decided to embrace wrestling in his last few fights, he’s 2-2 in his last four fights but he’s on a two fight winning streak and is looking to get to three in a row here while proving he’s ready to make a serious move up at lightweight. The odds are solidly with Diakiese at -330 while the +275 on Johnson might tempt a few bettors given the volatility of both men.

Lightweight Bout: Marc Diakiese (16-5, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Michael Johnson (20-18, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Johnson has half an inch of reach advantage. Diakiese comes out and misses a flying knee. Johnson is fighting southpaw. Some leg kicks from both men, they’re just probing for distance. Diakiese tries a double leg, Johnson sprawls away then they break. Bit of a left from Johnson. Diakiese is switching his stance, he fires a couple of leg kicks that are checked. Inside leg kick from Johnson. Bit of a right from Diakiese. Diakiese lands a front kick to the body. Johnson keeps pressuring forward, he’s avoiding a lot of Diakiese’s offense thus far. Calf kick from Diakiese. A right hand from Johnson seems to trouble Diakiese. Bit of an uppercut from Diakiese. Both men miss strikes now. Diakiese tries a double leg, Johnson defends and resets. Johnson off balances Diakiese and gets on top, Diakiese tries a triangle choke but he’s all off trying it and Johnson slips to his back as Diakiese stands but he can’t keep the grip and they wind up separated. A few jabs from Johnson. Both men miss punches in close as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese

ROUND TWO: Johnson misses a few punches in close. Diakiese avoids a punch. Johnson avoids a flying knee and then misses a punch. Not much has actually landed for either man thus far. Johnson avoids a leg kick and lands a left to the chest. There’s an eye poke to Johnson but Johnson doesn’t want much of a break and we continue fighting. Diakiese lands a body kick. Bit of a right from Diakiese. Johnson lands a couple of body shots. Diakiese misses a high kick, then tries a sweep but Johnson smothers it. Johnson keeps coming forward, and lands a left to the body. Some leg kicks from Johnson, he seems to be getting a better feel for things and his pressure might be getting to Diakiese now. Left hand from Johnson lands. Johnson jabs the body a few times. Body shot from Johnson then a combination in close. Diakiese’s volume has decreased a lot here, the jabs and body work from Johnson might be having an effect now. More body shots from Johnson as he’s got Diakiese along the fence, then a right hand to follow. Johnson lands a left. Combination from Johnson mostly lands. Johnson lands another body shot. Diakiese tries a takedown, Johnson easily defends. Johnson lands a left hand to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Johnson, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Johnson gets back to the body right away. They tie up, Johnson lands body shots then some knees are traded before they break. Bit of a right from Diakiese. Johnson lands an inside leg kick then avoids a poorly set up double leg from Diakiese. Diakiese misses a right hand. Johnson lands a left to the body. Both men miss a few punches in close. Johnson jabs the body then lands a left to the body as well. Inside leg kick from Johnson. Diakiese misses a right hand. Hard right from Johnson in close, then he eats a counter but fires back again. Diakiese tries another takedown, again Johnson defends. Johnson lands a jab. Diakiese misses a jumping knee. More body jabs from Johnson. Johnson lands a left to the body. Bit of a left from Johnson. Right hand then a left from Johnson stagger Diakiese then Johnson avoids a takedown attempt. Bit of a left from Johnson. Johnson lands a jab. Diakiese is really falling behind here. Diakiese tries a rolling thunder kick, Johnson avoids it. Johnson lands a knee, then hits a takedown as the round ends.

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

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

That 30-27 seems quite wrong, Diakiese should have had the first, but Johnson winning rounds two and three is correct from where I sit. No interview for Johnson.

Clay Guida is another longtime veteran of the sport and promotion having debuted for the UFC way back in 2006, he’s 2-4 in his last six fights and is coming off of a loss. Guida needs a win here to avoid another losing streak and maybe avoid falling further down the card. Scott Holtzman is 2-2 in his last four fights and while he’s on a two fight losing streak those losses have come to Beneil Dariush and Mateusz Gamrot, but despite the level of opposition there he still needs a win as a three fight losing streak including a loss to an over the hill fighter like Guida would signal a serious downturn in his career. Holtzman has also been out of action for almost 18 months and will need to remind people why he had momentum a few years ago. Holtzman is your favorite at -195 against +165 on Guida.

Lightweight Bout: Clay Guida (37-22, 154.5 lbs.) vs. Scott Holtzman (14-5, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Holtzman is two inches taller while Guida has an inch of reach advantage. Holtzman works kicks early, he lands a hard calf kick. Guida is doing a lot of circling. Holtzman lands a couple of punches. Jab from Holtzman. Both men miss punches. A lot of stance switching from Holtzman the more he loosens up. Guida has a few punches blocked. Holtzman lands another leg kick. Bit of a right from Holtzman, then Guida falls short on his counters. Bit of a calf kick from Guida. Holtzman keeps pressing forward and lands a few jabs. Both men miss in close again. Holtzman lands a leg kick. Guida flurries but misses, then lands a leg kick. Guida blocks some kicks. Bit of a right from Holtzman then a head kick to follow up but Guida just eats it. Holtzman lands a body kick. Bit of a right from Holtzman. Another right from Holtzman. Guida misses a few punches. Holtzman avoids a takedown with ease. Both men miss more punches. They trade rights in close to end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Holtzman but that last exchange might have muddied the waters

ROUND TWO: Guida tries a takedown, he winds up on the back in the clinch as they hit the fence. Holtzman gets chest to chest then lands an elbow before they break. Both men land in close. Some jabs from Holtzman then a knee barely misses. Guida lands a right hand and sort of hits a takedown but they wind up clinched on the fence again. Some elbows from Holtzman as Guida is looking for a double leg. Guida gets an elevated double leg into the guard of Holtzman. Holtzman wall walks then separates. Bit of an elbow from Holtzman lands. They trade rights, then Holtzman lands another punch. Leg kick from Guida. Long left from Holtzman then a right jab. Guida tries a double leg, Holtzman sprawls away. More jabs from Holtzman now, he’s pressuring Guida backwards and looking to pot shot. Leg kick from Guida. Holtzman lands an uppercut. Guida is firing punches but he’s struggling to really land effectively. Holtzman lands a right hand. Guida forces a clinch and looks for the back in the clinch. Holtzman gets things chest to chest, Guida tries to change levels and winds up on the back in the clinch again. Mat return from Guida, Holtzman bounces up and the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Guida, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They trade in close then Holtzman avoids a double leg. Holtzman lands a left hand and they clinch. Some knees go back and forth then they break. Guida swings wide and misses punches. Holtzman lands a left hook. Right hand from Holtzman as he avoids some Guida offense. Holtzman lands a couple of rights, Guida is a little hurt from that. More punches from Holtzman, he’s got Guida on the fence again. Guida misses punches. Holtzman lands a right hand. They both land in close. Guida lands a body kick but eats a couple of punches and an elbow in response. They clinch up and Guida gets the back in the clinch again. Guida is able to hit a double leg into full guard. Guida moves to side control. Holtzman scrambles to his feet and lands an elbow in the clinch. More knees to back and forth then Holtzman gets free, only for Guida to dive after the legs and get another takedown against the fence. Holtzman wall walks but Guida is on his back and gets another takedown. Holtzman wall walks, Guida hits a mat return and time runs out.

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

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

Guida winning fights in 2022 is just depressing on so many levels. No interview for Guida and Holtzman leaves his gloves in the ring as he’s decided to retire.

Angela Hill just broke a three fight losing streak with a win back in August, now she’s trying to end the year on a win and go 2-2 in 2022 but enter the new year with a little positive momentum. Emily Ducote is on a four fight winning streak including a successful UFC debut back in July, now she’s trying to knock off another veteran of the game and establish herself as a prospect to watch going into 2023. This one is close according to the odds, but the tilt towards Ducote at -130 to the +110 payout on Hill.

Strawweight Bout: #13 Emily Ducote (12-6, 115.5 lbs.) vs. #12 Angela Hill (14-12, 115.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Hill is an inch taller with an inch and a half of reach advantage, she’s also nine years older. They both come out showing the lead hand. A lot of range finding from both women. Hill lands a calf kick. Both women miss rights. Hill misses a kick. Ducote lands a right hand. Bit of a right from Ducote. Ducote lands a left hook. Hill lands a leg kick. They both miss in close. Ducote lands a right hand, Hill counters with a left hook. Hill lands a right hand. Both women land punches in close but Hill is going for more volume. Ducote avoids a few jabs. Hill lands a combination. Ducote lands a right hand in close. The pressure from Hill seems to be making Ducote a little uncomfortable. Hill lands a leg kick. Ducote lands a right hand in close. Hill lands a calf kick. They trade in close, then Hill lands a right hand to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Hill

ROUND TWO: Hill gets back to work as the round begins. Ducote lands a couple of rights but she’s struggling to get the range down. Hill lands a leg kick. Bit of a right to the body from Ducote. Hill walks into a right hand. Some jabs from Hill, then a right to the body. Bisping just flat out lies about Hill’s landing percentage but her overall volume is definitely impressive. They tie up, Hill with some knees to the body then an elbow as they break. Hill has a high kick blocked. Bit of a right from Hill. Ducote lands a left in close. Leg kick from Hill then she misses the follow ups. Right from Ducote, then Hill lands a counter combination. Both women land in close. Hill avoids a takedown and lands knees to the body then an elbow. More clinch work from Hill, then Ducote lands a right hand as they break. Ducote lands a right hand. Hill lands a few more knees to the body then an elbow and Ducote is bleeding from the nose. They both miss rights, then Hill lands a body kick as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Hill gets right back to action, working long punches and a calf kick. Ducote is standing her ground a bit more and lands a few punches in the pocket. Hill keeps coming forward, Ducote lands a left to the body. Another body shot from Ducote. Hill lands a body kick. Right hook from Hill then some jabs. Both women land lefts in close. Ducote lands another left to the body then a right hand behind it. They both land in close. Hill with some more jabs then a clinch and lands some knees to the body then an elbow. More knees in the clinch from Hill, then they trade elbows and break. Calf kick from Ducote. They both land in close. Another flurry from Hill then some knees in the clinch. Hill lands an elbow as they break. Another clinch, more trading in that position from both women before they separate. Hill has a head kick blocked. Knee from Hill lands, then a few more to the body in a clinch. Ducote is struggling in the clinch as they break. Ducote lands a right hand. Both women miss kicks. They trade punches in close. Another clinch, an exchange of elbows and they break. Hill with a knee, Ducote tries a takedown as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Angela Hill via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Solid overall performance from Hill to end the prelims.

Niko Price has been out of action since October of last year when he bested Alex Oliveira, now he’s looking for his first winning streak since 2018. Philip Rowe missed weight for this fight, never a good look especially since it’s his second time doing so in the UFC, but he’s gone 2-1 in the UFC and is on a two fight winning streak. If Rowe can get to three in a row here it would help smooth over the gaff on the scales as well as set him up for a momentum filled 2023. Price is your -120 favorite to an even +100 for Rowe.

Welterweight Bout: Niko Price (15-5 2 NC, 170 lbs.) vs. Phil Rowe (9-3, 173.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Rowe is three inches taller with four and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Both men fire some early leg kicks. Rowe starts switching his stance as they circle. Bit of a right from Price. Price lands a left in close but he’s struggling with landing against the guard of Rowe. Inside leg kick from Price. Rowe lands a leg kick. Jumping knee from Rowe then a right hand. Leg kick from Price, Rowe returns it. Price punches into a clinch, where they trade knees then Rowe spins free. Another flurry from Price, but Rowe is defending well enough and maintaining composure. Rowe lands a right hand but slips on a kick though Price can’t capitalize. Both men miss punches in close. Rowe lands a right hand that staggers Price but he seems to recover pretty quickly and fires back. Price misses a few punches, the range and height disparity is a problem for him. Bit of a right from Price. Both men miss punches. Rowe lands a left hook then a right hand. Price lands a bit of a left hook, which will be the final blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rowe

ROUND TWO: Rowe goes back to landing leg kicks. Both men circle. Price lands a leg kick. Rowe lands a left hook. Inside leg kick from Price, who’s starting to press the action. Price punches into a clinch, lands a knee, and looks to make things ugly in close. Rowe is able to spin free and lands a solid right hand. They clash on kicks, then Price lands a couple of body shots. Long jab from Rowe connects. Rowe with a double leg and he gets on top in full guard. Price with a combination, he tries to clinch again but Rowe is able to avoid that one. Rowe lands a couple of punches. Price gets close, Rowe grabs a power guillotine and forces Price down, then Rowe gets the back with a body triangle locked in. Choke attempt from Rowe but Price is able to defend. Rowe grabs a neck crank but Price is able to break the grip. Price looks to base up, then rolls through and free and they reset. Both men land rights. Rowe lands a jab. Jab from Price, then he has a flurry blocked. A left from Price is mostly blocked as he clinches and the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rowe but a better round for Price, 20-18 Rowe overall

ROUND THREE: They hug to start the final round. Price lands a right hand then a leg kick. Both men land in close. Rowe lands a few jabs. Price lands a right hand in close. They trade leg kicks. Left from Price in close. A right from Price wobbles Rowe, he looks to follow up and lands a knee. Punches from Price along the fence, Rowe looks to block and evade but he slips and drops to the mat. Price on top in half guard, he lands elbows and punches. Rowe tries to tie up Price but Price is relentless at this point. More elbows from Price but Rowe is able to fight to his feet in the clinch. Price lands an elbow as they break then Price keeps throwing punches as he’s got Rowe on the fence. Rowe lands a right hand to back Price off for a second. Price lands a body shot then a left hand. Inside leg kick from Price. Price punches in close, but Rowe cracks him with a right hand and Price is hurt. Rowe unloads with punches and a knee. More punches from Rowe, Price wobbles and drops to his hands and the ref steps in.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Phil Rowe via TKO, punches, at 3:26 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Rowe for his work this evening. Pity about the weight miss for Rowe because that’s your Fight of the Night so far. Rowe does get an interview, he plays with the crowd then says this is a dream come true and puts over his team and dedicates the win to the fans. He claims he wasn’t too hurt in the third round and says his mother battling two kinds of cancer at once empowers him and no one is going to threaten him at all in the cage. To close he gives love to his mother and thanks her for letting him do what he does, then puts over his dad in the crowd as well.

Here’s the finish. Rowe is able to stay composed on offense while Price is hurt, and he finds openings to bring more damage to Price and force the stoppage. Fun fight overall.

Eryk Anders is in a rough spot right now, he’s got just one win in his last six fights and that was over a year ago as he’s on a two fight losing streak. If Anders wants to make a serious move up the middleweight ranks again he can’t afford a three fight skid here. Kyle Daukaus has been very up and down in the UFC having gone 2-3 with 1 No Contest during his time in the promotion, he’s coming off of a loss back in June and now looks to end the year on a winning note. Daukaus is a notable favorite at -230 to a slightly tempting +195 comeback for Anders.

Middleweight Bout: Eryk Anders (14-7 1 NC, 186 lbs.) vs. Kyle Daukaus (11-3 1 NC, 184.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Daukaus is two inches taller with an inch of reach advantage. Both men fighting southpaw. Some leg kicks from Daukaus. Bit of a right hook from Daukaus in close. Anders checks a few leg kicks. Anders lands punches, but Daukaus lands a knee. A lot of aggression from Anders, then he lands a right hook. Daukaus lands a left hand. Stiff jab from Daukaus. Anders catches a kick and lands a left hand then off balances Daukaus and stands over him landing leg kicks for a bit then Daukaus kicks him back and stands. Inside leg kick from Daukaus then a left hand. Anders lands a leg kick. Some rights from Daukaus in close, then Anders cracks him with a couple of lefts that drop Daukaus. Daukaus comes up looking for a takedown but Anders disengages and after a bit he makes Daukaus stand. More pressure from Anders, but Daukaus lands an uppercut. Bit of a right from Daukaus. Daukaus lands a leg kick then a left hand. They clinch up and hit the fence, and Anders lands a left hand as they break. Daukaus jabs the body then tries a head kick. Both men land body shots. Anders just wont let Daukaus breathe, he’s still in his face and lands a body shot. They bang heads and Daukaus drops to his knees and we get a time out. Replay confirms the heads cracked together, and Daukaus takes a bout 40 seconds then we’re back to fighting. Left hook from Anders off balances Daukaus, he gets on top as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Anders

ROUND TWO: Daukaus looks to get back on offense, but Anders lands a left hand. Some punches from Daukaus and a kick then he forces a clinch. Daukaus looks for a single leg against the fence, Anders looks to defend as they wrestle around and Anders is able to defend. Some punches from Anders as he separates, but Daukaus just moves to his back and lets Anders stand over him. Anders goes down and lands some hammer fists then punches the body as he stands over Daukaus. The ref makes Daukaus stand back up and resets them. Hard left from Anders stuns Daukaus, Daukaus reaches for a takedown but Anders pushes him over and unloads from top position. Daukaus is defending but he’s not addressing the position and Anders keeps firing until the ref steps in.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Eryk Anders via TKO, punches, at 2:45 of Round 2

That’s the first finish for Anders in a little over three years. Mic time for Anders, he says this fight started at his lowest point mentally and maybe physically so he had to get going and start building up again. He talks us through the finish, noting he hurt Daukaus several times but he wasn’t going to get crazy as he had plenty of time to work. Asked about the future he says he’d like to fight Jamie Pickett.

This doesn’t include the striking that Anders did to set this up, but Daukaus was done and Anders kept up the pressure to force the issue.

Jack Hermansson has traded wins and losses while going 3-3 in his last six fights, but he’s coming off of a win and could get his first winning streak since 2019 up and running here. Roman Dolidze has gone 5-1 in the UFC and is on a three fight winning streak, he took this fight on short notice when he replaced Derek Brunson but if he’s able to get a win it would easily be the biggest of his career seeing as Hermansson is a top ranked middleweight. Not too surprising to see Hermansson as the -200 favorite while a Dolidze win would payout at +170.

Middleweight Bout: Roman Dolidze (11-1, 185.5 lbs.) vs. #8 Jack Hermansson (23-7, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Dolidze is an inch taller while Hermansson has an inch and a half of reach advantage. Southpaw for Dolidze, while Hermansson will switch as he moves around. Hermansson circles, shows a side kick but doesn’t land. Bit of a calf kick from Hermansson. Dolidze keeps coming forward, lands a left hand. Hermansson is looking to get his kicking game going. Left hand from Hermansson. Double leg from Hermansson, Dolidze grabs a guillotine on the way down but Hermansson is able to get free and settle into his full guard. Sweep from Dolidze into spider web control, then Hermansson scrambles up into another clinch and looks for another takedown but Dolidze is defending against the fence. They break without incident. Bit of a left from Dolidze. Hermansson lands a calf kick. Dolidze blocks a high kick. Bit of a body shot from Dolidze, Hermansson lands a body kick. More calf kicks from Hermansson as they move around. Dolidze is switching his stance a bit now. More long range kicks from Hermansson as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Hermansson

ROUND TWO: Hermansson gets back to kicking as the round starts. Both men land in close. Dolidze avoids a takedown then checks a calf kick. Bit of a combination from Dolidze. The stance switching from Dolidze is helping open up his punches, he lands a couple of punches. Hermansson is happy to kick either calf and those kicks are adding up a bit. Bit of a right from Dolidze. Both men miss punches. Hermansson lands a right hand. Bit of a left from Dolidze. Double leg from Hermansson and he gets on top in full guard. Dolidze goes for the same sweep he hit in the first round, switches to an armbar attack that gets a little close then switches to a reverse triangle but after a bit Hermansson gets free. Dolidze attacks a leg, he’s definitely not letting Hermansson rest and Dolidze gets a calf slicer and rolls to have the back and unloads with punches while the calf slicer keeps control as Hermansson can’t move. Dolidze lands punches and the ref has to step in as Hermansson can’t do anything about the position and punishment.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Roman Dolidze via TKO, punches, at 4:06 of Round 2

Now that’s a position you don’t see often but that calf slicer as control from the back like that is really cool. Mic time for Dolidze after that big win, he plays with the crowd then says he’s a world champion grappler and got to show that but he can also knock people out. He talks us through some highlights and the finish, and says he’s a self made grappler so he finds stuff that works and he’s developed a great feel for positions. Asked about the future, he wants to be in the top ten after this and then with respect he says if Khamzat Chimaev can’t make welterweight anymore he’ll welcome him to middleweight.

Here’s the finish. That calf slicer for control from Dolidze is really cool, and Hermansson can’t address the position so he’s just taking punches to the head and can’t really defend himself. Big big win for Dolidze.

Tai Tuivasa just had a five fight winning streak broken when he was stopped by Ciryl Gane back in September, now he’s looking to end the year on a winning note and retain his top ranking going into the next year. Sergei Pavlovich has only lost in his UFC debut when stepped in against Alistair Overeem, he’s currently on a four fight winning streak with all of those being first round finishes that have seen him climb the rankings pretty steadily. Now Pavlovich looks to close the year with another win over a fellow top five heavyweight and end the year in good position in the title picture. Pavlovich is a rather surprisingly heavy favorite at -205 while the +175 comeback on Tuivasa has to be a pretty tempting value bet.

Heavyweight Bout: #5 Sergei Pavlovich (16-1, 255 lbs.) vs. #4 Tai Tuivasa (14-4, 266 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Pavlovich is an inch taller with a whopping nine inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Both men probe with the lead hand as they circle. Pavlovich lands a right hand then tries to unload but Tuivasa fires back. A right form Pavlovich drops Tuivasa, but Tuivasa fights back up and fires back again. Both men miss punches, and Tuivasa misses so hard he off balances himself. Pavlovich keeps landing punches against the fence, Tuivasa drops to the mat again and this time the ref steps in.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Sergei Pavlovich via KO, punches, at :54 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Pavlovich for his work this evening. Mic time for Pavlovich and the translator, he thanks the fans and puts over Tuivasa as a strong and talented fighter then thanks everyone for their hard work getting him ready. He says he deserves a bonus and feels he was robbed of a bonus in his last fight. He talks us through the finish and says he was very ready for Tuivasa then says this was a very important fight for his career. Asked about the future he’d like to recover with his team and jokes about wrestling with Cormier during training and how Cormier would never let him, but Cormier also told him to be multi functional as a heavyweight and he took that to heart.

Here’s the finish. Pavlovich hits really hard, and he used his big reach advantage even in close as he’s able to slip with some safety and return fire when Tuivasa isn’t quite sure of the range. Big year for Pavlovich, he’s got to be in the title picture going forward with his current win streak.

Matheus Nicolau has gone 8-1 in the UFC and is on a five fight winning streak, if he can get to six in a row he could well find himself in the title picture once Brandon Moreno and Deiveson Figueiredo finish their business next year. Matt Schnell has been a little up and down lately but he’s coming off of a win in a crazy two round fight back in July, if he can close out the year on a winning streak he could be the one finding himself around the title picture next year. Nicolau is a pretty hefty -380 favorite against +310 on Schnell.

Flyweight Bout: #6 Matheus Nicolau (18-2-1, 126 lbs.) vs. #7 Matt Schnell (16-6 1 NC, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Schnell is two inches taller with a notable four inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Schnell starts stalking forward. Bit of a right from Nicolau. A lot of circling. Nicolau lands a calf kick. Schnell lands a left hook. Both men miss punches in close. Nicolau lands a calf kick. Nicolau lands a left hook. Some feinting from both men. A left hook from Nicolau drops Schnell, he jumps on top in half guard and drops some elbows but Schnell scrambles back up and they reset. Both men land punches in close. Schnell keeps coming forward, and eats a calf kick. Nicolau lands a right hand. Both men miss left hooks. Schnell misses a right hand. Bit of a calf kick from Nicolau. They just feint away the final seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Nicolau

ROUND TWO: Schnell gets back to forward pressure while Nicolau is looking to counter. Right from Nicolau stuns Schnell and Nicolau gets on top on the mat in full guard. Both men land some strikes on the mat, then Schnell kicks Nicolau off and regains his feet. A left hook from Nicolau stuns Schnell again. Nicolau isn’t wowing the fans with volume but boy is he precise. A right from Nicolau drops Schnell, he gets on top in the ride and lands punches to prompt the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Matheus Nicolau via TKO, punches, at 1:44 of Round 2

Mic time for Nicolau and his translator, he plays with the crowd in English and thanks them for coming out and reminds everyone he’s here to be world champion. That was his seventh UFC victory and feels he’s finally going to earn a post fight bonus, then engages in hucksterism by appealing to the crowd. He talks us through the finish and puts over Schnell but he knew Schnell would come forward and Nicolau could be patient and find his spot. Asked what he wants next he mentions this was the last fight on his contract and we’ll have to wait and see if the UFC still wants him, but if they do he’s ready for a big fight.

This was a very good performance from Nicolau from start to finish, hopefully he gets a good contract and sticks around because flyweight is kind of hurting and he’s a very good addition to the division.

Bryan Barberena is on a three fight winning streak with his last two opponents being Matt Brown and Robbie Lawler, now he’s taking on another legend and could head into 2023 with a surprising amount of momentum with a win. Rafael dos Anjos has gone 2-3 in his last five fights with two of those losses coming to now champion Leon Edwards and Michael Chiesa, most recently he had a darn good fight with Rafael Fiziev but fell in the fifth round to the surging contender. Dos Anjos is trying to end the year on a win and look for a bigger money fight next year. Dos Anjos is the biggest favorite on the entire card at a whopping -520 against the +410 of Barberena.

Welterweight Bout: Bryan Barberena (18-8, 170.5 lbs.) vs. Rafael dos Anjos (31-14, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Barberena is four inches taller with two and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going, both men are nominally southpaws. Barberena starts pressuring right away with kicks. Both men miss punches in close. Dos Anjos circles a bit, then lands a jab. Single leg from dos Anjos, he settles for a clinch on the fence. Some knees from both men, then dos Anjos hits an inside trip and lands on top in half guard. Dos Anjos is setting up an arm triangle, the fence is complicating things but dos Anjos hops to half guard on the other side and then settles for full mount and bails on the choke to land punches. Dos Anjos is still threatening the choke while landing punches with his right hand. Barberena is pretty calm here at the moment, he knows he’s in danger but isn’t going to panic. Dos Anjos lands some body shots. Barberena gets his arm free and then hip escapes to half guard. Some more short punches from dos Anjos as he looks to pass, and he moves back to full mount. And right now dos Anjos has surpassed Frankie Edgar in terms of most time in the UFC cage all time. Dos Anjos looks for the back, he winds up on a hip of Barberena. Barberena looks to wall walk, he’s up to a knee but dos Anjos is riding him from there. The round ends as dos Anjos moves to land more punches against the fence.

SCORECARD: 10-9 dos Anjos

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Barberena gets back to forward pressure and throwing kicks. They trade lefts then clinch up along the fence. Barberena pulls free, but dos Anjos dives onto his hips and hits a takedown then moves to the ride position. Dos Anjos looks to secure the position as Barberena tries to wall walk, dos Anjos lands a knee to the body but Barberena does get vertical in the clinch. Dos Anjos drops for a double leg, and gets Barberena down to his seat. Barberena tries to wall walk again, he’s able to get up but dos Anjos is still all over him. Outside trip from dos Anjos and he lands on top in half guard. Barberena shrimps to full guard, and dos Anjos postures up to land a few punches. Half guard now for dos Anjos as he passes, he’s after a Von Flue choke but Barberena recognizes it and moves his arm out of danger. Barberena looks to scramble, dos Anjos gets the back and attacks a choke, it’s more across the face here but he’s squeezing with everything he’s got and after a bit Barberena has to tap to the crank.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Rafale dos Anjos via Submission, neck crank, at 3:20 of Round 2

Dos Anjos is such a technician, he’s a forgotten great and it’s kind of a shame that he’s not fully acknowledged as such. Mic time for dos Anjos, he puts over his team for getting the game plan together then puts over Barberena as a tough opponent then gives glory to God. He mentions being 38 with over 40 fights and now he’s got the most time in the cage, and thanks God for all the strength he’s been given. He brings up defending the title against Cerrone in this venue while guys like Usman and Ngannou were on the prelims, and he’s still here. Now he calls out Conor McGregor, noting they were supposed to fight six or so years ago, now Conor can take time to clean his system out of all the crap he’s on and dos Anjos will be here waiting for him.

Dos Anjos is just really good, and has been for a really long time.

Stephen Thompson has fought for the UFC welterweight title twice before but now he’s almost 40 years old and is just 2-4 in his last six fights while currently being on a two fight losing streak. That streak is somewhat mitigated by being against Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad but he absolutely cannot afford another loss here if he wants to retain a top ranking and a degree of relevance in the division. Kevin Holland was last seen getting run over by Khamzat Chimaev in that clown fiesta that was UFC 279, but he’d won two in a row before that and now Holland looks to end the year with arguable his biggest win to date when he takes on a highly ranked opponent. The odds favor Holland at -175 to +150 for Thompson.

Welterweight Bout: #6 Stephen Thompson (16-6-1, 170 lbs.) vs. Kevin Holland (23-8 1 NC, 170.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Holland is three inches taller, has a significant six inches of reach advantage, and is nine years younger. Thompson opens southpaw but he will switch his stance. Holland opens with kicks. Thompson avoids a right hand. Thompson lands a left hand as Holland forces a clinch on the fence. They break without incident and high five. More southpaw from Thompson, he’s looking to use that lead leg. Thompson lands a left hand, his hands are fast at the moment. Side kick from Thompson. Holland forces a clinch, then they break without issue. Hard left from Thompson lands. Both men show some side kicks. There’s a cut around the left eyebrow of Thompson, not sure what caused it. Thompson lands a side kick and a left hand. Both men land punches in close then Holland lands a knee. Thompson lands a left as Holland tries to close distance, he’s got that much dialed in but Holland is just eating them. Another left from Thompson partially lands. Thompson goes orthodox and they trade rights but Holland landed harder and he looks to follow up but Thompson evades. A lot of pressure from Holland, he eats a head kick and they tie up. Knee from Holland then an elbow but Thompson fires back as they break. Southpaw again for Thompson now, he fires a head kick that’s blocked then lands a left hand. Hook kick from Thompson but Holland kicks out the posting leg. Bit of a blitz from Thompson, he’s landing consistently but Holland is just eating these punches. Thompson lands a hard left hand again. A bit of stance switching from Thompson now, but he seems to prefer southpaw. Holland falls short with a few kicks. Both men miss kicks then Holland lands a body shot to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Holland but a close one

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Thompson lands a side kick. Bit of a left from Thompson, he’s looking to counter Holland. Head kick from Thompson is partially blocked but that got Holland’s attention for sure. Body kick from Thompson. Thompson with a blitz attack and they clinch then break as Holland misses a few punches. Holland lands a leg kick, Thompson returns it. Thompson is orthodox now, then goes back southpaw to land a left hand. Holland is pushing the action and both men land in close. Another combination from Thompson but he’s struggling to really hurt Holland. Thompson lands a head kick and then lands punches in close but Holland backs him off with a couple of knees. Holland lands a bit of a head kick. Thompson lands a left hand, every time Holland closes distance Thompson is landing on him. Holland lands a jab. Side kick from Thompson, Holland counters with a leg kick. Thompson lands a left hand and circles away from Holland’s pressure. Another clash of punches, they trip over and Holland just stands and welcomes Thompson back up. Thompson lands a side kick to the body then a glancing hook kick. Left hand from Thompson, how Holland keeps just eating these is a little beyond me. Both men miss punches, then Thompson lands a side kick. Bit of a punch from Holland. Thompson lands a body kick. Jab from Holland then a right hand behind it and an elbow to follow up. Thompson lands a flurry of punches, these two are having a ton of fun. Wheel kick from Thompson, he’s got Holland hurt finally and lands a few punches to follow up but Holland lands a right to back him off. Holland lands a right, Thompson fires back with a left. Thompson avoids a few punches to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Thompson, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Calf kick from Thompson. Holland avoids a hook kick. Bit of a body kick from Holland then an inside leg kick. Jumping high kick from Thompson stuns Holland for a moment. Holland lands a side kick. Thompson lands a left hand, then another one. They trade and tie up, this time they slip and then scramble back up. Thompson goes orthodox, and takes a calf kick then lands a lunging left hand. Back to southpaw for Thompson and he lands a combination. Side kick from Thompson, then one to the head that off balances Holland. Clubbing right from Thompson lands. Holland falls short on punches. Thompson lands another side kick, then one to the face and a right hand to follow. Left from Thompson, Holland might be wearing down a bit finally. They punch into a clinch and trade knees before Thompson slips free. Thompson slips a hook and lands a right hand. One two from Thompson gets Holland to back up. More punches from Thompson, he starts to flurry against the fence but Holland covers up and rolls with much of it. Thompson resets and lands a couple more punches. Both men miss punches. Thompson with a flurry against the fence again, then a wheel kick that Holland just eats. Body kick from Thompson. Holland lands a jab, then eats a couple of counters. Thompson lands a body kick then a one two. Holland avoids a wheel kick, then Thompson avoids punches and lands a couple of counters to close the round.

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

ROUND FOUR: Holland might have hurt his right hand that round. Thompson comes out side kicking, and lands a hook kick. Holland keeps coming forward, then eats a left hand as they clinch up. They break very quickly as there was a clash of heads in that clinch and Thompson is bleeding from the forehead. Thompson lands a left hand then Holland clinches up. Thompson spins free and lands a couple of punches. Body kick from Thompson, then a sick left body kick and Holland is hurt for a moment. Another body kick from Thompson, then some punches and Holland shoots a double leg that stalls out on the fence. Thompson spins Holland into the fence and lands some body shots, but something’s wrong with Holland and Thompson backs off and the ref might be waving this off. We get some clarity after a moment, there was a groin strike so we’ve actually got a time out. Replay, there was a punch from Thompson that might have grazed the groin so we’re dealing with the time out. Holland is good to continue after a little over a minute so we’re back to fighting. Thompson lands a body kick, Holland does not like that kick and puts himself on the fence. Wheel kick from Thompson lands flush, Holland is still upright. More kicks from Thompson then a left hand and a right hook. Holland isn’t in good shape and he’s putting himself on the fence. Thompson lands a flush head kick, then another one but Holland stays upright. More kicks from Thompson, then he misses a wheel kick. Knee from Thompson in close. Holland blocks a right hand but he’s not moving much anymore. Thompson lands a calf kick, then another one. Side kick from Thompson, then one up high. Holland misses a punch and eats a counter. Hard left from Thompson then a body kick. Calf kick from Thompson. Holland lands a leg kick but eats a wheel kick counter. Thompson looks to unload, and he avoids some wild punches from Holland. Hard body kick from Thompson. Calf kick from Thompson. Holland avoids a head kick, then eats another body kick. Sick right from Thompson then a left that drops Holland, Holland tries to come up on a takedown but Thompson spins to be on top and unloads then stands free and makes Holland stand as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Thompson, borderline 10-7, 39-36 Thompson overall

ROUND FIVE: Holland and his corner stop the fight between rounds, that hand issue with Holland is too bad and he took too much damage that last round.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Stephen Thompson via TKO, corner stoppage, at 5:00 of Round 4

Great fight, Thompson looked darn good. Mic time for Thompson, this was what he expected and puts over Holland as someone he needed to time properly because of his length. Cormier asks him about this turning into a fight, and he says he lost his last couple of fights to wrestlers but he wanted to prove he’s still here and feels like he’s still 25. Asked about the resilience of Holland he puts over Holland as a beast and he knew his longest tools would be key. Cormier now brings up what he wants next he thinks he’ll be even better next time, thanks the crowd for coming out and being awesome to close.

Holland gets an interview as well, he says he hurt his hand in the first round on that exchange of rights but it is what it is. He got mostly what he expected but Thompson was faster than he thought and puts over him and his corner.

Well on that note UFC on ESPN 42 comes to a close. It was over six hours long, but a great main event saved that. Wait, I’ve got a not here. It says “If you’re tired of the bickering of the extremes, the Middle Round Club is here for you”. Huh, alright then. Well we did have 6 second round stoppages and a main even that wasn’t in the first or final round. Anyway we’ll break down all the action from this card on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast on Sunday, plus look ahead to UFC 282 when the light heavyweight title is up for grabs. I’ll be back next week for that event, the penultimate UFC event for 2022. Until then thanks for reading, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.