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Join 411’s LIVE UFC on FOX 29 Coverage

April 14, 2018 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC on FOX 29

Keep Refreshing For The Latest Results
FOX Main Card 8 pm EST
#5 Dustin Poirier (156 lbs.) vs. #6 Justin Gaethje (156 lbs.)
#12 Carlos Condit (171 lbs.) vs. Alex Oliveira (171 lbs.)
Israel Adesanya (184 lbs.) vs. Marvin Vettori (186 lbs.)
#10 Cortney Casey (115 lbs.) vs. #7 Michelle Waterson (115 lbs.)

FOX Prelims 6 pm EST
Tim Boetsch (185 lbs.) vs. Antonio Carlos Junior (185 lbs.)
Ricky Rainey (170 lbs.) vs. Muslim Salikhov (171 lbs.)
#10 John Moraga (126 lbs.) vs. #6 Wilson Reis (125 lbs.)
#13 Krzysztof Jotko (185.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Brad Tavares (186 lbs.)

UFC Fight Pass Prelims 3:30 pm EST
Gilbert Burns (156 lbs.) vs. Dan Moret (156 lbs.)
Shana Dobson (126 lbs.) vs. Lauren Mueller (126 lbs.)
Dhiego Lima (171 lbs.) vs. Yushin Okami (170 lbs.)
Arjan Bhullar (241 lbs.) vs. Adam Wieczorek (232 lbs.)
Matthew Lopez (136 lbs.) vs. Alejandro Perez (136 lbs.)
Patrick Williams (136 lbs.) vs. Luke Sanders (135 lbs.)

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC on FOX 29. I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the afternoon/evening, relaying all of the action to you just as I see it. You know, this is the second to last announced UFC on FOX event and the upcoming one might be among the last depending on who the UFC signs their new TV deal with. Well if it is one of the last ones on FOX the UFC picked a heck of a main event for it when top lightweight contenders Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje battle it out. These are two of the most action packed and violent fighters on the roster and this is as close to guaranteed fireworks as you’ll get on paper. The co-main is a solid welterweight contest, and another potential violence fest, when Carlos Condit takes on Alex Oliveira.

On commentary tonight we have Jon Anik, UFC light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, and former UFC bantamweight champion Dominick Cruz. This event comes to the world from the Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona, USA. As for the rules in effect tonight, the relevant commission has adopted the new rules so you need both palms or fists flat on the mat to be considered downed (or a knee) also extending fingers towards your opponent is a foul regardless of contact being made and the language around scoring is clearer and a touch looser around 10-8 criteria. We also have the limited use of replay, it can only examine the fight ending sequence so once it’s been invoked the fight cannot be restarted.

We’ve also got a full fourteen fights set for this event, heaven help us because this could wind up dragging. This is the first UFC event with 14 or more fights since UFC 2, so I’m likely just living on the hope for the top three fights as it goes on.

Luke Sanders is on a two fight losing streak and really needs a win here, he’s looked pretty good even in loss but can’t allow himself to hit the dreaded three fight skid. Patrick Williams last fought a year ago and was finished by Tom Duquesnoy, which brought his overall UFC record to 1-2, he’s trying to avoid what would be the first losing streak of his career. The odds are pretty solidly behind Sanders at -450 to a +325 comeback on Williams.

Bantamweight Bout: Patrick Williams (8-5, 136 lbs.) vs. Luke Sanders (11-2, 135 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Williams is two inches taller but he has a significant reach advantage of six inches as well. Williams fighting southpaw, actually he’s doing a lot of stance switching as he circles. Sanders looking to dart in and close distance but both guys are still trying to feel each other out. There’s a couple of leg kicks from Williams, Sanders is southpaw now and Williams is orthodox. Hard left from Sanders drops Williams, Williams is back up but he’s still a little wobbly and Sanders is stalking forward. Another left from Sanders, Williams clinches up but they break quickly. Bit of a brawl breaks out, they both land but Williams lands a kick as Sanders is off balance, Sanders stays upright but Williams gets behind him and has a rear waist lock. Sanders breaks the grip and spins free. Left then a right from Sanders, bit of a left from Williams. They jockey for position in the clinch then Sanders breaks free and starts teeing off before they clinch again. Williams tries a double leg but Sanders sprawls and they wind up still clinched, Sanders lands a couple of elbows before they break. There’s blood from the hair line of Williams from one of those elbows, Sanders is still pressuring him and Williams is starting to breathe hard. They clinch again and trade knees to the body as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Sanders

ROUND TWO: That cut on the head of Williams is pretty long, it’s still bleeding as the round starts despite the efforts of the cut man between rounds. Sanders is still coming forward, Williams misses a head kick and eats a hard knee to the body. Bit of a head kick from Sanders and they clinch up but Williams is able to get Sanders on the fence, then Sanders spins to the back and they break. Glancing left from Sanders, Williams is putting his hands on his knees. Sanders lands a left to the body but takes a solid right to the face. Sanders lands another left but his offense is becoming predictable. Another clinch and they trade some body shots then break as Williams misses an uppercut. Bit of a right from Williams. Sanders really needs to go tot he body, he’s head hunting and Williams is defending and countering just enough to trouble him. They fall into another clinch after a leg kick from Williams then break with a slight elbow from Sanders. Another glancing left from Sanders, the distance isn’t in his favor and the constant head hunting is going to get him hurt. As I type that Williams lands a booming counter right that gets Sanders backing up after he missed a punch. There’s a double leg from Williams to close out the round.

<B.SCORECARD: 10-9 Williams, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Sanders needs to vary his offense and keep his hands up, his predictability could cost him this fight. Some circling to start the final round. Leg kick from Williams, and another. Huh, Williams’ right eye is swelling pretty badly as well. Left from Sanders lands, Williams then avoids a high kick and lands a leg kick. Inside leg kick from Williams, he’s fighting long now and Sanders is struggling with the range. Right to the body from Williams. Sanders lands a bit of a left to counter a leg kick but the range is still troubling him. Another left from Sanders drops Williams for a second, he’s back up but they fight in the clinch then break and Williams is back to sucking wind. There’s a couple of body shots from Sanders, finally. Williams blocks a high kick then eats a right. Bit of a right from Williams but he partially eats a head kick. They trade rights as the round comes to a close.

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

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

I can see an argument for Sanders taking the second even though I disagree with it. Mic time for Sanders, who says he knew he needed to be the forward fighter and keep the pressure on. He apologizes for his last couple of losses but felt he needed the win here and jokes that he’s straight out of the trailer and still has that mentality. Asked about the last year he feels it was the worst of his life all because of a few seconds when he lost fights he was winning but feels great about the win here.

Matthew Lopez has gone 2-2 in the UFC but those losses are to Rani Yahya and Raphael Assuncao, he’s coming off of the Assuncao loss in which he also missed weight and is looking to redeem himself in this fight. Alejandro Perez has just one loss in the UFC and is 4-0-1 in his last five fights, he’s trying to make the case for an official ranking if he can extend that streak here. The odds are close but lean towards Lopez at -135 to +105 for Perez.

Bantamweight Bout: Matthew Lopez (10-2, 136 lbs.) vs. Alejandro Perez (19-6-1, 136 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Lopez is an inch taller and has two inches of reach on Perez. Touch of gloves, Lopez fighting southpaw. Perez tries a couple of inside leg kicks that are mostly checked. Leg kick from Perez lands and Lopez tries to get a takedown but can’t secure it. Stiff straight left from Lopez definitely gets the attention of Perez. They brawl a bit then Lopez gets a takedown, he’s on the back quickly and is after the choke but he can’t get under the chin and Perez breaks the grip before he can get the hands together enough to finish over the jaw. Perez spins into Lopez and in the scramble they wind up clinched on the fence. Lopez is able to spin and change his level, Perez back up from his knees quickly and they break without incident. Hard body kick from Lopez then a one two behind it and Perez is on his heels, then Lopez hits a double leg and has the back again. Lopez gets a body triangle this time and is looking for the choke. A few elbows from Lopez sneak through the guard of Perez. Another choke attempt from Lopez but again Perez is able to hand fight and break the grip before the choke gets tight. One more choke attempt from Lopez, Perez tries to spin into his guard as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Lopez

ROUND TWO: Lopez checks an inside leg kick to start the round, he’s pressuring Perez back to the fence. Bit of a right from Perez lands, he’s trying to keep this thing at boxing range. They both miss punches then Perez avoids a double leg attempt. Leg kick from Perez, Lopez seems to still be getting his wind back for the first couple of minutes. Bit of a combination from Perez. Lopez lands a counter left after taking a right to the body and Perez is again backing up. Perez lands a body kick but eats a counter right. Lopez tries a double leg but they hit the fence and Perez lands a knee to the head that has Lopez hurt. Perez is pouring on the offense as Lopez staggers around the fence. Body shots and an uppercut from Perez prompt the standing finish from the ref.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alejandro Perez via TKO, knee and punches, at 3:42 of Round 2

Nice stuff from Perez to weather the storm and find his openings in the second. Perez gets an interview with his team mate Daniel Cormier. He says he worked hard on stopping takedowns as he was the better striker. Asked who’s next he says he’s just ready to keep winning and gives glory to God.

Here’s the finishing sequence. Lopez tries a desperate double leg, Perez blocks then uses under hooks to expose the face for knee strikes that wobble him. Also pay attention to how he doesn’t get crazy with head strikes, he goes to the body of the hurt and tired fighter instead of wild head hunting and it pays off almost immediately.

Arjan Singh Bhullar is undefeated including a successful UFC debut, he’s trying to keep that momentum here and prove he’s a heavyweight prospect to watch. Adam Wieczorek is on an eight fight winning streak and is coming off of his UFC debut, he’s also looking to stake a claim as the up and coming heavyweight to pay attention to going forward. Bhullar is a notable -360 favorite against +270 for Wieczorek.

Heavyweight Bout: Arjan Bhullar (7-0, 241 lbs.) vs. Adam Wieczorek (9-1, 232 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Wieczorek is four inches taller and has five and a half inches of reach on Bhullar. They touch gloves to get us going. Bhullar coming forward looking to negate the reach issues. Quick couple of hooks from Bhullar land and he gets a single leg takedown into the guard of Wieczorek. Wieczorek is fighting for wrist control and looking to work his guard, Bhullar trying to stuff him into the fence and land offense. A few body shots from Bhullar, then some rights to the head. Bhullar’s top control is solid but he’s not quite figured out consistent offense from the position against Wieczorek. A quick flurry from Bhullar lands but the ref eventually decides to stand them up. Body kick from Wieczorek on the restart. Nothing of note happens before the end of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Bhullar, might be a 10-8 argument as Wieczorek landed almost no offense

ROUND TWO: Wieczorek lands an inside leg kick but Bhullar is backing him into the fence again. Body kick from Wieczorek, he’s trying to keep this fight long but Bhullar lands a right and gets close. Bhullar gets a body lock and is working in the clinch. Elevated double leg from Bhullar and this time he lands in half guard but Wieczorek is holding a double wrist lock looking for a kimura. Bhullar gets his arm free and Wieczorek has full guard again. Omoplata attempt from Wieczorek, he’s got it and forces the tap. That’s just the second omoplata finish in UFC history.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Adam Wieczorek via Submission, omoplata, at 1:59 of Round 2

I’m a little surprised that worked, that’s such a low percentage submission. Mic time for Wieczorek and his translator, he says he knew it would be tough but he found the right moment to get the submission. Asked about the submission and if he was surprised that it actually worked he says he is because while he trains that move this is the first time he’s finished with it then says he plans on fighting again towards the end of the year.

This is basically a textbook example of what not to do when defending the omoplata, Bhullar doesn’t mind the hips of Wieczorek, doesn’t try to roll free, doesn’t move his own hips before the arm controls them, and the end result is the forced tap as when locked in the omoplata applies tremendous pressure to the shoulder.

Dhiego Lima is on a two fight losing streak that includes his return to the UFC when he was defeated by Jesse Taylor, he’s looking for his second overall win in the UFC as his initial stint ended after he compiled a 1-3 record. Yushin Okami is similarly coming off of a loss in his return to the UFC, though that was on short notice and up at light heavyweight. Okami is making his UFC welterweight debut here and hoping to reinvigorate his career. The odds give Okami a slight edge at -130 to an even +100 for Lima.

Welterweight Bout: Dhiego Lima (12-6, 171 lbs.) vs. Yushin Okami (34-11, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two have the same height and reach. Okami fighting southpaw. Bit of a leg kick from Lima, and the “woo-ing” hast finally started. Honestly three fights in might be a record over the last few events. Okami hits a double leg to counter a leg kick, Lima wall walks but Okami is on his back and working mat returns. They’re on the mat now and Okami has the back with both hooks in and is looking for a body triangle. Only one hook in now for Okami but he’s still got full control an is looking to set up an arm triangle if Lima moves too much. Quick move from Lima and he’s got full guard now. A few lefts land for Okami as he postures up looking to pass. Okami is in a weird half guard, Lima’s got a butterfly hook with one leg but Okami is over the other. Right from Okami lands and Lima gets double butterfly hooks. The round comes to an end with Lima sitting against the fence and Okami nearly on his back again.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Okami, he won but a big enough margin to warrant it

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Lima is coming forward this round and flashing the jab. Okami tries a double leg, Lima is able to block this one but when he tries to strike Okami ducks under it and gets him against the fence. High crotch lift from Okami but Lima is trying to limp leg free and does but Okami dives back onto him and is after the double leg again. Lima lands a few elbows but Okami slips behind him and has the back as Lima is on a knee. Okami drags him to the mat and has one hook in but Lima is looking to wall walk again and use the fence to peel Okami off of his back. Half guard now for Okami and he’s got Lima flat on his back. A few short blows from Okami land. Lima tries to walk off the fence and sweep, he’s back up but still on the fence and Okami still has a hold of him. Now Okami gets around and has a rear waist lock then elevates and returns Lima to the mat. Another move to his feet from Lima but Okami is riding him as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Another touch of gloves to get the last round going. Lima comes out jabbing, Okami lands an inside leg kick. Single leg from Okami, he moves to the back and drives Lima down. Lima is back up but Okami drags him back and gets one hook in while getting the back. A few punches from Okami land but he can’t get the second hook in and Lima moves to his knees though Okami moves to the ride. Lima is back up but he can’t get free and Okami pushes him back to his knees. Rinse and repeat I guess, Lima is back up but again Okami moves to his back and drags him down then resumes riding him. One hook in for Okami, now half guard on top as Lima is flattened out on his back. Some punches and elbows from Okami now. Lima is trying to get to a hip but Okami is smothering him and landing short blows when he can. Lima tries to move, Okami postures up and tees off as the round runs down.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Okami, 30-25 Okami overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Yushin Okami via unanimous decision (30-26 x3)

No interview for Okami, Lima’s wrestling defense continues to be abysmal.

Shana Dobson is coming off of a successful UFC debut at the TUF 26 finale way back in January of last year, she’s hoping to keep that momentum going and make a name for herself in the fledgling women’s flyweight division. Lauren Mueller is undefeated and coming off of a win on Dana White’s Tuesday Night Contender Series, this will be her UFC debut and she’s also hoping to make a big splash in the division. Another close fight according to the odds but they favor Mueller at -160 to +130 for Dobson.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Shana Dobson (3-1, 126 lbs.) vs. Lauren Mueller (4-0, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Dobson is an inch taller and has two inches of reach on Mueller. Touch of gloves to get us going. Both women pawing with the lead hand. Dobson lands a leg kick. Some head movement from Mueller as she avoids a combination. Leg kick from Mueller. Right from Mueller lands and Dobson is stunned for a second. They clinch then break and Dobson lands a right as they separate. Short right from Mueller lands, then a body kick and we’re in the clinch again. Mueller has Dobson on the fence and is working knees to the body and thigh. They trade lefts on the break and Mueller is coming forward again. Bit of a right from Dobson. Leg kick from Mueller. A couple of left hooks land for Mueller then they trade body kicks. Another left hook then a right from Mueller lands. Mueller lands a right. Solid jab from Dobson, that’s been her best offensive tool but Mueller seems to have more power. Hard right from Mueller. Dobson tries a double leg, blocked by Mueller and they reset. Dobson misses a combination to close out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Mueller

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Dobson showing the jab again, Mueller slips one of them and lands a couple of counters. Right lands for Dobson then a leg kick behind it. They wind up clinched on the fence and do some positional jockeying. Mueller with a few knees then a right as they break. Dobson lands another jab, at distance she’s doing well. There’s an exchange of lefts but Dobson landed better. Body kick from Dobson. Side kick to the body from Dobson, Mueller really needs to close distance. Dobson lands another body kick but Mueller lands a hard punch and Dobson’s nose is bleeding now. Mueller avoids a high kick and lands a body kick. They trade a couple of jabs as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Dobson, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Quick hug to start the final round. Dobson comes out jabbing and looking to circle. Mueller slips a couple of punches. Right lands for Mueller then a few jabs that get a reaction, Dobson’s nose is compromised. Combination from Mueller lands but Dobson is able to duck under and get a double leg, she moves to the ride position as Mueller is looking to stand. Mueller is up, they’re on the fence and Mueller is able to start landing offense as Dobson is on the fence. Elbow from Mueller lands. They separate without incident, Dobson lands a body kick but eats a counter left. Mueller catches a kick and gets Dobson down, then moves to side control quickly. Something of a cradle from Mueller, not something you see all the time in MMA, then she puts herself into 3/4 mount. Mueller stands then punches Dobson as she regains her feet. That nose of Dobson is a problem. Some more jabs go back and forth but Dobson lands a body shot that hurts Mueller a bit. Dobson is teeing off on the body but Mueller catches a kick and trips her down, they trade in the clinch as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Lauren Mueller via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Surprisingly enjoyable scrap, no interview for Mueller as we’re possibly short on time.

Gilbert Burns is coming off of a win and has a stellar overall UFC record of 5-2, he’s trying to get another winning streak up and running here then make a push towards the top of the division. Dan Moret brings a two fight winning streak into his UFC debut, he stepped in here on relatively short notice and is looking to make the most of the opportunity. Burns is the biggest favorite on the entire card at -600 while Moret’s upset would pay out at +400.

Lightweight Bout: Gilbert Burns (13-2, 156 lbs.) vs. Dan Moret (13-3, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Moret has two inches of height and reach on Burns. Moret fighting southpaw and they touch gloves. Body kick from Burns lands. Even commentary has had enough of the “woos”, and coming from noted wrestling fan Cormier at that. Solid right from Burns lands, then a body kick. Moret has some offense blocked but he’s here to fight. Burns has a head kick blocked and they trade in close. Right from Burns at distance but Moret is having success when he gets into the pocket or dirty boxing range. Burns lands a body kick, those are starting to work for him. Jab from Moret lands. Another body kick then a right from Burns. Moret lands a couple of inside leg kicks. Counter right from Moret lands and Burns is a little out of sorts, Moret storms after him until Burns gets the clinch and hits a takedown along the fence. Burns has half guard and is looking to get the back if Moret moves to his knees, so Moret just wall walks instead though Burns still has a body lock and drags him back down to half guard. Burns lands a flurry of elbows and punches to close out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Burns but Moret isn’t playing around

ROUND TWO: Moret comes out throwing, they’re blocked but he’s here to fight. Burns digs a couple of body kicks. Body kick from Moret. Hard counter right from Burns wobbles Moret, he flurries until Moret collapses against the fence out cold.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Gilbert Burns via KO, punches, at :59 Round 2

Big knockout for Burns, and he’s on the mic now. He jokes about his knockout power then puts over his coaches and team mates for getting him to this point and reiterates he’s not just a grappler but has a bomb in his right hand. Burns talks us through the finish then calls out Olivier Aubin-Mercier for the July 7th card.

Here’s the finish if you missed it. Moret squares up to land the inside leg kick but his left hand gets low and the counter right from Burns finds his jaw. The follow up is nice, he lands an uppercut to back him up, misses a straight right but notes that the wobbled Moret is ducking so he lands the uppercut a second time to shut the lights off.

That wraps up Fight Pass fights, to big FOX for the rest of the prelims.

Krzysztof Jotko is on a two fight losing streak, despite that he’s still ranked in the top fifteen and needs a win here to begin making good on the potential he’s displayed through his UFC run while avoiding a three fight skid. Brad Tavares has clawed his way back into the top fifteen with a three fight winning streak, he’s trying to improve his standing in the division and make a run towards the title. The odds favor Tavares at -130 to +100 for Jotko.

Middleweight Bout: #13 Krzysztof Jotko (19-3, 185.5 lbs.) vs. #15 Brad Tavares (16-4, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Jotko has three inches of reach on Tavares. Jotko fighting southpaw, and we get a touch of gloves. Both men showing the lead hand but not really doing anything with it yet. Jotko trying to keep this long, neither man really engaging yet. Tavares is trying to use leg kicks, he lands one but eats a jab. Leg kick from Jotko. Bit of a right from Tavares. Leg kick from Tavares. Very methodical approach from Tavares so far, he’s not getting crazy. They clinch up and Jotko lands a hard knee to the body before they hit the fence. Jotko is able to spin free. They both miss in close and Jotko lands a knee. Bit of an uppercut from Jotko, Tavares is covering up and moving straight back when pressured. Jotko tries a takedown, can’t finish it but he does get Tavares into the fence. Jotko tries a throw, or a guard pull I couldn’t tell, but that basically ends the first round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Tavares

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Both men miss some punches but they both seem to be more engaged to start this round. Tavares blocks a high kick but eats a bit of an uppercut. Tavares is bleeding from the left eyebrow off of that uppercut, doesn’t look too bad yet. There’s a high kick from Tavares, Jotko might be wobbled and Tavares pushes into the clinch. They trade a few punches, Tavares lands a knee to the body. Some positional battling, then a quick trade of punches. They separate as Tavares blocks a series of uppercuts. Stepping knee from Tavares lands then Jotko barely misses a wheel kick. They both miss punches in close and we end the round back in the clinch.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves to start the last round. Again both men are jabbing, Jotko has a high kick blocked. Bit of a left from Jotko. Exchange of power hand punches, Tavares landed better. Another glancing high kick from Jotko. Right uppercut lands for Jotko. Body kick from Tavares lands. Jotko catches a kick and lands a left, they get close and Tavares lands a hard right that floors Jotko then he flurries to prompt the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Brad Tavares via TKO, punches, at 2:16 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Tavares for his work this evening. That’s also the first finish for Tavares since 2011. Tavares gets an interview, Jon Anik is handling these duties now, he says that felt good. He mentions staying tight in the pocket then calls out Michael Bisping, who’s on the analyst desk in the media area, for the July 7th card.

Here’s the finish. Jotko is clearly a little rocked but as he goes for the right uppercut in the pocket he keeps his chin high and drops his left hand leaving a clear opening for the tight right hook of Tavares.

Wilson Reis is on a two fight losing streak and needs to halt that skid badly if he wants to retain his top ranking and possibly return to the title scene. John Moraga is on a two fight winning streak and seems to really be coming into his own, he’s trying to return to title contention as well with a third consecutive win. The odds are close but favor Reis at -135 to a +105 comeback for Moraga.

Flyweight Bout: #10 John Moraga (18-6, 126 lbs.) vs. #6 Wilson Reis (22-8, 125 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Moraga is two inches taller and has an inch of reach advantage. Reis fighting southpaw, and we get a touch of gloves. Hard inside leg kick from Moraga, he landed on the calf. Bit of a right from Moraga and an inside leg kick behind it. They trade power hand punches in close, Moraga doing a good job of fighting long while Reis clearly needs to get this in close if not all the way to the mat. Reis walks into a straight right then takes an inside leg kick. Pretty good left hook from Moraga, he’s looking solid so far in this fight. Moraga tries a guillotine, they move a bit but Reis grabs a bit takedown and lands in side control. big error from Moraga to sell out for a guillotine on a grappler like Reis. Moraga is able to spin to his fee but he’s still in the clinch on the fence. Moraga is able to spin free after a bit and reset at distance. Bit of a right uppercut from Moraga, he’s timing that puch well when Reis is dipping his head to close distance or launch a punch. Reis lands a left and gets a takedown along the fence but Moraga is able to move to the back but he’s got no hooks and Reis rolls into half guard. Reis is back up and gets a quick trip then moves to half guard as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Moraga

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Right to the body from Moraga to get the round going. Right hook lands for Reis in close. Left hook from Moraga. Reis punches into a takedown attempt, he has to work for it and switch to a high crotch then double leg and get the takedown along the fence. Moraga back up and is able to disengage. Body kick from Reis, Moraga returns it. Takedown attempt from Reis, it stalls on the fence and they wind up separating. Inside leg kick from Reis lands. Another bull approach from Reis and gets Moraga to the fence. Moraga is able to push free. Leg kick from Reis, Moraga lands a jumping knee that hurts Reis and they trade some punches then Reis lands a takedown into half guard. Short lefts from Reis to the body and head. Reis moves to the back in a scramble, he’s got both hooks in now and is after the choke. Moraga is able to spin into Reis and land in the guard, he lands an elbow and a few punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Moraga but a close round, 20-18 Moraga overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves again. Quick inside leg kick from Moraga. Reis lands a leg kick, these two are still getting after it. Reis on a takedown, they have to scramble a bit but Reis gets him to his seat against the fence. Moraga lands a few elbows but Reis pulls him off of the fence and is in side control. Moraga to his knees, the fence is preventing Reis from moving to the back and they wind up standing again fighting in the clinch. Reis has a body lock but he can’t get much from it before they break. Moraga lands a bit of a right then has a head kick partially blocked. Right to the body from Moraga. Left lands for Reis and he’s in on a takedown again, he gets Moraga to his seat but Moraga is back up and Reis sweeps him down and lands in side control again. Beautiful roll from Reis there. Reis lands punches to the body and head, Moraga moves to his knees and Reis has the back with both hooks in this time. Moraga is bleeding from the forehead, not sure what caused it. Reis has a body triangle now and is landing some punches trying to open up the choke. Commentary tells me the cut on Moraga was caused by the fence. Reis tees off for a few seconds as time runs down on the fight.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Reis this comes down to the second round scoring, 29-28 Moraga overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – John Moraga via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Fun fight, best of the night to this point. Moraga also has a hole in his head from that fence, it’s pretty gnarly and his head is turning purple. Mic time for Moraga and he feels he won the fight and puts over Reis then hopes the crowd appreciated the fight.

Muslim Salikhov just had an eleven fight winning streak broken in his UFC debut, he’s trying to get back on the right side of things here and prove he’s got what it takes to win at the UFC level. Ricky Rainey brings a two fight winning streak into his UFC debut, it’s also worth noting he took this on short notice and is looking to announce himself in a big way. Slight -210 edge in the odds for Salikhov to +170 on Rainey.

Welterweight Bout: Ricky Rainey (13-4, 170 lbs.) vs. Muslim Salikhov (13-2, 171 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Rainey is two inches taller but has a whopping seven inches of reach on Salikhov. They touch gloves to get things going. Rainey is visibly bigger than Salikhov. Leg kick from Rainey and Salikhov lands a bit of a counter right. Salikhov lands a leg kick. We get time for an eye poke to Salikhov, replay confirms the scrape to the eye and we’ve got the doctor in to double check the injury. The doctor has no problem with the fight continuing and we’re back to fighting. Spinning back kick to the body from Salikhov lands flush. They clinch up then break as Rainey misses a few punches. Bit of a right from Salikhov. Rainey lands a right, and eats a counter for it. Right then a left from Rainey land. Salikhov lands a body kick. Rainey has a kick caught and then he’s pushed over, Salikhov lands a few punches as Rainey gets back up. Body kick from Salikhov but he’s doing a lot of single shot offense. They trade knees in close, clinch up and Rainey lands another knee as they break and the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Rainey

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Rainey might be the more fatigued party here, which is troubling considering the average pace of the first round. There’s a slip from Rainey, aided by a punch from Salikhov. Spinning back kick from Salikhov lands. Rainey coming forward, lands a leg kick. They clinch up and jockey for position. Salikhov has Rainey on the fence now, they break without incident. Glancing left from Salikhov and he has a spinning back fist blocked. Bit of a right from Salikhov. Inside leg kick and a bit of a left from Salikhov. Rainey lands a left but can’t follow it up. Salikhov lands a solid leg kick. Again that spinning back kick to the body from Salikhov, then a left body kick to follow it up. Hard right from Salikhov drops Rainey, a few more punches on the mat end this one.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Muslim Salikhov via KO, punches, at 4:12 of Round 2

Sedate pace but a big finish from Salikhov. Mic time for Salikhov, he notes the short notice change of opponent and says he’s just going to try and knock out his opponent no matter the time frame. He walks us through the finish, jokes that he likes the replay and calls the UFC the greatest event in the world and expresses joy at getting his first UFC win then hopes it’s just the beginning.

Nice finish, the initial right is well timed and executed but look at the follow up offense for the real nice stuff. As Rainey tries to get up after the face plant Salikhov meets him with a left uppercut then stands over him landing rights to prompt the stoppage.

Tim Boetsch is coming off of a win when he defeated Johny Hendricks, he’s trying to get another winning streak going here and prove he’s still an elite level middleweight. Antonio Carlos Junior is on a four fight winning streak and looking to break into the top fifteen with another win here while continuing to move towards the top of the division. Carlos Junior is your -240 favorite while Boetsch would pay out at +190.

Middleweight Bout: Tim Boetsch (21-11, 185 lbs.) vs. Antonio Carlos Junior (9-2 1 NC, 185 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Carlos Junior has two inches height and five of reach on Boetsch. Touch of gloves to get us going. Carlos Junior showing the jab and trying to work forward, Boetsch looking to counter with a right. Carlos Junior lands a right. Hard leg kick from Carlos Junior. Left hook from Carlos Junior lands and a leg kick behind it. Short left from Boetsch lands. Right lands for Carlos Junior. Carlos Junior punches close but Boetsch pushes him out of a possible clinch. Leg kick from Boetsch. Hard counter right lands for Carlos Junior, Boetsch definitely felt that. Hard right from Boetsch, and we’ve got a bit of brawling but Carlos Junior catches a front kick and is after a takedown. Boetsch trying to defend, he gets to the fence but Carlos Junior has him on the cage and lands a few knees to the body. Carlos Junior moves to the back, Boetsch quickly spins to be chest to chest again. Big double leg from Carlos Junior and he’s got Boetsch down against the fence. Boestch to his seat against the fence, Carlos Junior is trying to get the back, he’s got the ride position and is landing rights to the head then gets both hooks in and is after the choke. He’s under the chin and Boetsch has to tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Antonio Carlos Junior via Submission, rear naked choke, at 4:28 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Carlos Junior for his work this evening. They would also like to register a complaint pertaining to parking at the venue as it delayed their arrival. That’s five in a row for Carlos Junior, and he’s on the mic with Jon Anik. He thanks everyone for coming out and being awesome then puts over Boetsch. He notes he hasn’t been doing MMA all that long, three years or so, and he can’t wait for the next one. Asked who he’d like next he says he just wants a challenge and loves to be here fighting and closes in Portuguese for the people back in Brazil which is translated as him noting the challenges in Brazil right now and encouraging everyone in the upcoming election to get out and vote.

That’s it for prelims, but we’ll still be on FOX for the main card.

Michelle Waterson is on a two fight losing streak, the first of her career, and really needs a win here if she wants to remain a relevant fighter in the division. Cortney Casey is 1-2 in her last three fights and is coming off of a loss to Felice Herrig, she’s trying to avoid another losing streak and move up in the rankings. Casey enjoys favored status to the tune of -155 to a +125 comeback for Waterson.

Strawweight Bout: #10 Cortney Casey (7-5, 115 lbs.) vs. #7 Michelle Waterson (14-6, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Casey is four inches taller and has five inches of reach on Waterson. There’s a touch of gloves to get things going. A few inside and outside leg kicks for Waterson, mostly range finding and probing for reactions. More leg kicks and a jab from Waterson. Casey is swinging but the movement of Waterson is making her miss. They clinch up and trade knees then break. Casey lands a left hook after missing a right, They clinch up again and Casey gets Waterson on the fence. They spin a few times then break apart. Overhand right for Casey lands, the size difference when they get close is obvious, and we’re clinched again. Bit of an elbow from Waterson as they break. Waterson trying southpaw now, Casey lands a right and Waterson is back to orthodox. Another punch and Waterson is down, she’s back up and trips Casey down to land in her guard. Casey after a triangle, Waterson postures through it and lands a right. Waterson lands some hammer fists but Casey gets an armbar position, she doesn’t really like it though and tries to adjust but Waterson gets free and lands a couple more punches from the guard. A couple of rights land for Waterson, they wind up on the feet just in time for the round to end.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Casey

ROUND TWO: Waterson lands an inside leg kick to start the second. More leg kicks from Waterson, Casey lands a couple of rights but they wind pup clinched again. Elbow in the clinch from Waterson, and another then Casey lands a knee and an elbow of her own as they break. Bit of a right from Waterson, Casey lands a right of her own. Waterson lands a leg kick then gets a single leg takedown into the guard of Casey. Casey tries a couple of elbows, Waterson lands some of her own. Triangle attempt from Casey, Waterson trying to pull free but Casey adjust towards an armbar, Waterson pulls free and lands a couple more punches. Another armbar attempt but Waterson steps over the head and moves to half guard. Casey is able to get guard back and tries the armbar again, this time she’s deep on the arm but Waterson walks around the body and lands punches before letting Casey up. Waterson lands a side kick to the thigh then one to the chest that drops Casey to the mat for a second. They stare away the final few seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Waterson, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Waterson lands an inside leg kick to get the round going, then a lead leg high kick. Casey is coming forward after that trying to get it back. Casey lands a right and pushes into the clinch again. Waterson is able to get Casey on the fence again where they jockey for position. They break without incident. Another side kick to the thigh from Waterson, then a body kick as Casey tries for a clinch, Waterson is able to bull her into the clinch and gets an outside trip. Casey tries to hit a sweep, she’s after the arm again as they roll and this is a dangerous position. Waterson gets free, Casey tries to switch for a straight ankle lock then inside heel hook but Waterson steps over to get weight on the leg. They regain their feet and Waterson lands a right as they do so. Leg kick from Waterson then a side kick to the body. Waterson after a single leg, Casey is stopping this one until Waterson switches to a double leg and nearly gets it but Casey is able to get her hips back and sprawl. Casey moves to the ride position and lands a few lefts, now elbows as Waterson gives up the back. Casey tries for an armbar from the back but there isn’t enough time and the horn likely saves Waterson’s arm.

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

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

I disagree with that, Casey’s submission attempts in 3 as well as how she ended that round worked in her favor unless the judges thought she took the first because she ended the round on top, which is equally stupid. Waterson on the mic, says it’s hard to pull yourself out of the hole you’ve dug but she’s embraced adversity and wont stop. She dedicates the win to someone who I assume passed recently. She notes you have to do everything when asked about her improved wrestling and mentions needing to bring the whole toolbox into the fight.

We get some interviews with Cormier and UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic to hype the upcoming season of TUF, because that show sucks and needs all the hype it can get. Both men put over the talent of the fighters and express that they felt this season was about the fighters not the coaches. Anik asks Miocic why he agreed to this, he says he’s a fighter and he just wanted to fight because it’s fun. Cormier says he wants history, to be the two division champ and take out the greatest heavyweight of all time. Miocic closes saying Cormier is the best wrestler he’s faced and puts him over generally but promises fireworks.

Israel Adesanya is undefeated and had a successful UFC debut when he out classed his opponent, he’s trying to keep that momentum going here and continue to grow in the sport. Marvin Vettori is coming off of a draw but his only loss in the UFC is to Antonio Carlos Junior, he’s trying to make a play for the top fifteen as well and slow down the Adesanya hype train. Adesanya is the -260 favorite against +200 on Vettori.

Middleweight Bout: Israel Adesanya (12-0, 184 lbs.) vs. Marvin Vettori (12-3-1, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Adesanya is four inches taller and has a whopping six inches of reach on Vettori. Vettori fighting southpaw, lands a bit of a leg kick to get things going. Adesanya showing the jab as he does some stance switching. Vettori falls short with some punches but he’s coming forward. Adesanya lands a front kick to the body but they wind up clinched on the fence. Vettori keeps looking for an inside trip, Adesanya is able to avoid it and separate. Jab from Adesanya. A few leg kicks go back and forth, both guys still getting a read on each other. Inside leg kick from Adesanya but he eats a couple of counter punches. Another jab lands for Adesanya, Vettori lands a couple of lefts. Body kick from Vettori and a body punch from Adesanya. Kick to the body from Adesanya then Vettori complains of an eye poke, which the replay confirms. Vettori is good to continue and they trade heavy body shots. Adesanya avoids a high kick and lands a leg kick. They clash on leg kicks then Adesanya lands a spinning back kick. When Vettori is aiming at the head he’s mostly missing but his body work has been effective. Bit of a flurry from Adesanya to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Adesanya

ROUND TWO: Bit of a left from Vettori, then he tries a double leg that hits the fence. Adesanya is able to get free once the momentum stalls out. Left lands for Adesanya after they traded leg kicks. Left lands for Vettori. Solid jab from Adesanya who then ducks away from offense. Uppercut from Adesanya lands. Bit of a head kick from Vettori then a punch to follow up. Adesanya digs a right to the body then an inside leg kick. There’s a slip and right from Adesanya. Elbow from Adesanya lands, Vettori is backing up and we’ve got some heat between them now. Adesanya lands a body kick, Vettori is starting to march forward. Body kick from Vettori then Adesanya avoids a takedown attempt. Another body kick from Vettori lands, then Adesanya lands a spinning high kick and a left to the body. Counter right from Adesanya lands then Vettori lands a bit of a knee to the body. They posture a bit to close the round.

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

ROUND THREE: Vettori comes out with forward pressure but he eats a couple of punches. Long left lands for Adesanya and he avoids the counters of Vettori. Vettori tries a single leg, he gets Adesanya down this time and moves to half guard quickly. Adesanya is trying to use the fence to push off of and generate motion but Vettori is staying tight and lands a right. There’s the guard back for Adesanya now, he’s trying to stall this out and Vettori is throwing punches to keep the ref from standing them up. Adesanya wall walks to his feet and tries to spin free but slips and Vettori is back on top. Adesanya back up but he’s still clinched on the fence. Quick misdirection from Vettori gets Adesanya down again and he’s trying to get some offense off. Adesanya wall walks again but again can’t get free. The ref breaks them apart, not sure I agree with that but it was a close thing. They trade some punches at distance, Adesanya landed better and Vettori is bleeding now. Counter left from Vettori lands. They both miss offense as the clock winds down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Vettori, 29-28 Adesanya overall

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

Round 1 might be hard to score if you weren’t paying attention. Adesanya on the mic, he puts over Vettori as a tough opponent then says he’s not happy with the win. He wants to stay active and wants to get back in here quickly, part of what he said was censored so my apologies about that.

Carlos Condit is a veteran of the sport and perennial fan favorite, but he’s on a three fight losing streak and is just 1-4 in his last five fights yet somehow retains a top fifteen ranking. Condit needs a win here because if he drops four in a row the talk of retirement will grow ever louder, and if he wants to revitalize his career he really can’t let that happen. Alex Oliveira is coming off of a loss to Yancy Medeiros in one of the better fights from last year, he’s trying to avoid the first losing streak of his career and get what would be the highest profile win of his career. Given the current trends for each fighter it’s no surprise that Oliveira is the -210 favorite to a +170 payout for Condit.

Welterweight Bout: #12 Carlos Condit (30-11, 171 lbs.) vs. Alex Oliveira (18-4-2 1 NC, 171 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Condit is three inches taller but the reach advantage is with Oliveira to the tune of one inch. They touch gloves to get things going, Condit opens southpaw but does a lot of stance switching. Feeling out from both men, they’re showing kicks just looking for openings and getting reads. Oliveira lands a counter right. Leg kick from Condit. They clinch up and Oliveira gets Condit on the fence. Elevated body lock takedown from Oliveira gets Condit down. Oliveira moves to half guard and starts elbowing the thigh and body. Condit is able to reguard, he goes inverted but Oliveira is able to ride through it then Condit gets a double leg of his own into the half guard of Oliveira. Oliveira is holding the head and Condit thought about a Von Flue choke, decides to bail and lands a few elbows instead. Punches to the body and head from Condit. Condit gets to the back when Oliveira tried to explode, he’s got one arm under the chin but Olivieria is trying to control the other hand, he’s able to get his head free actually but Condit is back after it again. That choke is tightening but Oliveira guts through the finale few seconds of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Condit

ROUND TWO: Condit comes out quickly, Oliveira catches a kick and gets Condit down in guard this time. Oliveira lands a few rights, Condit is able to push him off then lands an up kick, and another. Condit is back up and Oliveira pushes close with a flurry to get another takedown. Condit tries to hit a sweep, can’t get it though. Oliveria can’t keep control, Condit is to his knees and hits a double leg but he ate some elbows and Condit is bleeding from the head rather badly. Condit lands a hard elbow, then a few more. Condit stands and comes down but they scramble and Oliveira sells out for a standing guillotine, it’s pretty deep and Oliveira is really after it but Condit is defending, Oliveira adjusts a little and keeps squeezing to force the tap from Condit.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alex Oliveira via Submission, guillotine choke, at 3:17 of Round 2

Fun fight from those two, but heartbreaking to see Condit look a little like his old self and get tapped like that. Oliveira on the mic now and he says his aunt just died and his uncle is in the hospital, he fights for his family and dedicates the performance to them.

Dustin Poirier has been showing some incredible form recently, he’s only lost once since moving to lightweight and is coming off of a brutal win over former champion Anthony Pettis. If Poirier can get another win here there’s a strong case to be made for him as the number one contender to the title given the injury to Tony Ferguson and the uncertainty around former champion Conor McGregor. Justin Gaethje is coming off of the first loss of his career but is still one of the best lightweights in the world, he’s trying to take another step towards title contention and avoid a losing streak with a big win here. The odds are close but favor Poirier at -135 while Gaethje’s comeback sits at +105.

Lightweight Bout: #5 Dustin Poirier (22-5 1 NC, 156 lbs.) vs. #6 Justin Gaethje (18-1, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Gaethje is two inches taller but Poirier has two inches of reach on him. Poirier fighting southpaw and we get a brief touch of gloves. Gaethje lands an inside leg kick and is pressing forward. Poirier lands a counter left then right and Gaethje lands another inside leg kick. Another inside leg kick from GAathje and Poirier lands a counter left. Poirier lands a left to the body and is really showing the jab early. Bit of a right from Gaethje, Gaethje is already cut around the bridge of the nose I think. An inside leg kick from Gaethje takes the legs from Poirier for a moment, he needs to address those. Gaethje coming forward, Poirier lands a combination of punches then a jab and Gaethje lands another inside leg kick. Left hook from Gaethje lands, Poirier is struggling to fight and move as he’s planting his feet to throw. Body kick from Gaethje, this pace is insane. Hard inside leg kick from Gaethje and they brawl a bit. Hard body shot from Poirier and we brawl again. Defense is barely a thing for these two in some respects. Another body shot from Poirier. Gaethje lands a right then an inside leg kick. Cracking left hook from Poirier but Gaethje just eats it and lands another leg kick. Poirier is firing hooks when they engage, Gaethje seems content to absorb and defend while chopping at Poirier. They trade punches as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Poirier but a close one

ROUND TWO: Poirier’s lead leg is hurt and Gaethje’s left eye is a little compromised. Poirier trying to establish the jab, Gaethje lands an inside leg kick. More pressure from Gaethje, he just wont let up. Another inside leg kick from Gaethje. They’re both jabbing well and Gaethje avoids a double leg attempt. They trade punches then Gaethje lands a leg kick and Poirier complains of an eye poke. Gaethje acknowledges the eye poke and Poirier takes a minute but he’s ready to continue. They touch gloves on the restart. Gaethje coming forward, lands a leg kick and they trade hooks. One two from Poirier and Gaethje lands a counter hook. Inside leg kick from Gaethje and he lands a couple of punches. Poirier pushes forward and we get a trade of hooks in close, this is nuts. Low leg kick from Poirier but his lead leg is still an issue. They trade in close, Poirier lands a left to the body and Gaethje lands an inside leg kick. Another inside leg kick from GAethje, that leg can’t take this much longer. Prolonged punches from Poirier land to the head. Gaethje blocks a takedown attempt, they clinch up and then break without much happening. Long series of punches from Poirier but they’re mostly blocked. Poirier has to switch stances for a bit, Gaethje still walking him down. Leg kicks from Gaethje and they trade jabs. Pretty good right from Poirier, Gaethje responds with a leg kick. Single leg attempt from Poirier, Gaethje defends and they trade elbows in close. More brawling and a head kick from Gaethje then he tries the rolling thunder kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Gaethje, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Poirier is hurting to start the third, Gaethje plays with the crowd to get into his head a bit. They touch gloves again. Leg kick from Gaethje, that stiffened the leg of Poirier. More leg kicks from Gaethje, he’s backing Poirier up and he lands a few punches. Poirier also has a cut around the right eye from the end of the second. There’s a double leg from Poirier but Gaethje rolls him over and we’re back up. Leg kick from Gaethje, Poirier lands a left to the body. Another inside leg kick from Gaethje, and another. Hard right from Gaethje in close, Poirier backs into the fence and Gaethje closes in and lands an elbow. Uppercut from Gaethje and they clinch up. Gaethje is throwing knees to the thigh before Poirier can get free. They split jabs and Gaethje lands another inside leg kick. More inside leg kicks, Poirier is fading and Gaethje is still coming on. Jab from Poirier and Gaethje lands a right, Poirier tries some rights but they’re blocked and they clinch. Poirier lands an elbow, Gaethje lands a knee to the body. They trade body shots then break. Poirier falls short with some punches and Gaethje kicks his leg again. There’s another exchange, Poirier complains of an eye poke and the replay confirms the poke. The ref is likely going to take a point here, Poirier’s eye is bleeding a little though I can’t see where from. Yeah, there’s the point deduction from Gaethje. Poirier wants to continue, the ref is bringing in the doctor to check on him though. The doctor says he can continue if he wants to, Poirier wants to and we’re back to fighting. They dance a bit and Gaethje gets poked in the eye just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 9-9 DRAW after the point deduction, 28-28 overall

ROUND FOUR: They touch gloves on the restart. Gaethje is coming forward again, Poirier lands a jab and takes a leg kick then lands a left that wobbles Gaethje. We get some flurry from Poirier, it’s full blown RoadHouse from Poirier until the ref steps in, Gaethje is complaining a bit about that one but I’m OK with it.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Dustin Poirier via TKO, punches, at :33 of Round 4

Mic time for Poirier, who’s like the number one contender now. He gets the crowd to cheer for both of them and puts over Gaethje as a warrior who’s willing to die in the cage. Poirier wants his title shot, and given the lack of Ferguson or McGregor right now I’m down with it.

Man that was great, here’s the finish if you missed it.

I mean, Gaethje is badly hurt and still waves Poirier on. That’s the Fight of the Year right now, lovely violent stuff from both guys. On that note, that wraps up UFC on FOX 29. Great fight to close the card on. We’ll be unpacking all the action from this event Sunday at 8pm eastern time on the 411 Ground and Pound Radio Show plus looking ahead to Fight Night 128 when Edson Barboza takes on Kevin Lee and we get the rematch between Frankie Edgar and Cub Swanson. I hope you’ll tune in for that and I thank you for following along here, or reading after the fact. I’m painfully aware of just how many places you can get this type of content and deeply appreciate your support. Until next time everyone, stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

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