mma / News
Join 411’s Live UFC on ESPN+ 66 Coverage
![UFC on ESPN+ 66](https://411mania.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/UFC-on-ESPN-66-645x370.jpg)
Keep Refreshing For The Latest Results
MAIN CARD (ESPN+, 2 p.m. ET)
#4 Curtis Blaydes (260 lbs.) vs. #6 Tom Aspinall (251 lbs.)
Chris Curtis (186 lbs.) vs. #8 Jack Hermansson (186 lbs.)
Jordan Leavitt (155 lbs.) vs. Paddy Pimblett (156 lbs.)
Alexander Gustafsson (205 lbs.) vs. #11 Nikita Krylov (204 lbs.)
Hannah Goldy (125 lbs.) vs. Molly McCann (125.5 lbs.)
#8 Paul Craig (206 lbs.) vs. #9 Volkan Oezdemir (205.5 lbs.)
PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN+, 12 noon ET)
Mason Jones (155.5 lbs.) vs. Ludovit Klein (155 lbs.)
Marc Diakiese (156 lbs.) vs. Damir Hadzovic (156 lbs.)
Charles Rosa (145 lbs.) vs. Nathaniel Wood (145.5 lbs.)
Makwan Amirkhani (145.5 lbs.) vs. Jonathan Pearce (145 lbs.)
Charles Johnson (125.5 lbs.) vs. Muhammad Mokaev (126 lbs.)
Jai Herbert (155 lbs.) vs. Kyle Nelson (155 lbs.)
Mandy Bohm (125 lbs.) vs. Victoria Leonardo (125.5 lbs.)
Nicolas Dalby (170 lbs.) vs. Claudio Silva (170.5 lbs.)
Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC on ESPN+ 66, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the event. The UFC is back in London for this event, and somewhat naturally they’ve brought a lot of local fighters with a few of them being showcased. In the main event rising heavyweight contender Tom Aspinall takes another step up in competition when he battles fellow contender Curtis Blaydes, the winner here should be fighting for some variety of title assuming we get clarity around the heavyweight title picture in the near future. Elsewhere on the card we’ve got Chris Curtis looking to crack into the rankings when he takes on Jack Hermansson, Jordan Leavitt tries to derail the hype around Paddy Pimblett, Alexander Gustafsson tries to make one more run when he battles Nikita Krylov, and also at light heavyweight ranked fighters Paul Craig and Volkan Oezdemir battle for position in a relatively open division. The prelims are pretty solid as well, so let’s hope this event is as good in practice as it is on paper.
UFC on ESPN+ 66 comes to the world from the O2 Arena in London, England. Our commentary team is John Gooden alongside Michael Bisping and Paul Felder. As for the rules, I’m not sure which set we’re under but since I think the UFC is self regulating I’m going to assume they’re using the same set that they do in Nevada. So we’re using most of the newer rules but you still only need one hand on the mat to be downed, and we do have the use of instant replay. If at any point the broadcast corrects me on that I’ll amend this segment. Oh, and we’re in the 30 foot cage set up instead of the 25 footer installed at the Apex.
Claudio Silva has had a surprisingly long tenure in the UFC, debuting back in 2014 but his inactivity has harmed his career trajectory. Silva currently finds himself on a two fight losing streak and has been out of action for over a year, a win here would be his first since 2019. Nicolas Dalby has gone 2-1 with 1 No Contest since returning to the UFC in 2019, he’s coming off of a loss though and now tries to avoid his first losing streak since 2018. Dalby is your favorite at -210 to a +180 comeback on Silva.
Welterweight Bout: Nicolas Dalby (19-4-1 2 NC, 170 lbs.) vs. Claudio Silva (14-3, 170.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Dalby has three and a half inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Silva, who pushes forward right away and clinches up as the crowd “woo’s” in less than 30 seconds. Dalby fights off a single leg against the fence, Silva is committed to this attack and finally slings Dalby down then gets on top. Silva moves to leg drag then into full mount, nice pass. Now Silva goes after an arm triangle but Dalby is able to keep his arm safe. Dalby is trying to attack the mount but Silva is riding him well and maintains the mount. A few punches from Silva land, and Dalby is finally able to hip escape to half guard. Silva lands a few more punches, Dalby looks to wall walk but Silva keeps punching him. Dalby gets to his seat against the fence but Silva strips away his posting limbs and flattens him out again. Silva lands a couple of knees to the body to close out the round.
SCORECARD: 10-8 Silva, I don’t think Dalby landed a single strike
ROUND TWO: Both men are probing with the lead hand as they start the second round. Silva lands a kick, and Dalby counters with a left hook. Calf kick from Dalby, Silva didn’t like that and hits a double leg against the fence. Silva mounts the legs as Dalby sits on the cage. Dalby is able to wall walk but Silva jumps on his back and pulls him back down with a body triangle. Silva starts fishing for the choke, but Dalby is able to roll enough to dislodge the body triangle then spin into Silva and get on top in full guard. Elbow from Dalby and he passes to half guard. Silva wall walks and Dalby lands a couple of punches then avoids a takedown and lands a knee. Dalby keeps pushing forward, he lands a right hand and a knee before Silva clinches up. Silva can’t convert a takedown and Dalby lands a couple of punches on the break. Stiff left from Dalby and some knees as they clinch again. These knees to the body from Dalby are nasty, Silva looks gassed out and Dalby is punishing him. More knees from Dalby to the body and head. Elbow from Dalby as they break. Silva reaches for a takedown, Dalby easily shrugs him off and punches him again. They clinch up and Dalby lands a couple more knees before the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Dalby but there’s a 10-8 argument, 19-18 Silva overall
ROUND THREE: Dalby comes out jabbing, he’s clearly in much better cardio shape. Leg kick from Dalby as he’s starting to switch his stance. Silva tries a double leg, Dalby shoves him off and gets on top in full guard. Elbow from Dalby. Dalby is doing a good job of folding elbows around the grip fighting of Silva. Silva thinks about reaching for a sweep or an armbar, but he can’t really get the position going. Dalby decides to stand free and makes Silva stand up. Bit of a head kick from Dalby, Silva lands a body kick. Bit of an elbow from Silva. Dalby lands a right hand. Left hand from Dalby. Silva hits a single leg and gets on top in full guard. Omoplata attempt from Dalby, but Silva defends and they wind up fighting over the position. Silva gets his arm free and moves to half guard. Some hammer fists and punches from Silva, Dalby fights to his feet and lands a knee to close out the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Dalby, 28-28 DRAW overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nicolas Dalby via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-28 x2)
No issues with a 10-8 for Dalby in the second, but Dalby does not get an interview.
Victoria Leonardo has gone 0-2 in the UFC plus has been out of action for over a year, now she’s trying to get that critical first win in the promotion. Mandy Bohm suffered her first professional loss in her UFC debut last year, now she’s trying to avoid her first losing streak and get that all important first UFC win under her belt. The odds are close for this one but lean towards Bohm at -120 against an even +100 for Leonardo.
Women’s Flyweight Bout: Mandy Bohm (7-1, 125 lbs.) vs. Victoria Leonardo (8-4, 125.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Bohm is two inches taller with a significant seven inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Bit of a right from Leonardo. Bohm starts working kicks right away, they trade punches then clinch up and Leonardo gets Bohm on the fence. Bohm lands a knee to the body. Leonardo has good head position and is keeping Bohm pinned on the cage. Some punches from Leonardo land as she works for a body lock. Bit of an elbow from Leonardo. Bohm is able to spin Leonardo into the fence. A lot of jockeying for position, Leonardo is looking for trips but can’t quite get the motion right. Bohm is able to push free and they reset. Leonardo falls short on a few kicks. Bohm lands a knee then a right hand. Leonardo lands a couple of jabs while circling. Side kick from Leonardo. Bit of a right from Leonardo. Bohm lands a leg kick, Leonardo clinches up off of that and gets a takedown into half guard. Quick wall walk from Bohm and Leonardo resumes working from the clinch. Some knees from Leonardo then an elbow. The round ends with Leonardo still in control.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Leonardo
ROUND TWO: Bohm looks to jab and stay long as the round begins. Leonardo lands a right hand. Side kick from Leonardo, Bohm responds with a leg kick. Bohm lands another leg kick, Leonardo counters with a blitz. Leonardo lands a side kick, but misses a spinning kick to follow up. Bohm avoids some strikes then lands a right hand. Leonardo clinches up and forces Bohm into the fence yet again. Some knees from Leonardo. Bohm lands an elbow as they fight for position. They move into open space while clinched, Leonardo lands a couple of knees then Bohm responds with an elbow as they break. Jab from Leonardo. Leonardo lands a side kick. A combination of punches from Leonardo land. Bohm forces the clinch now, and Leonardo lands a knee to the body then tries for a single leg against the fence but can’t finish it. Some short knees and punches from Leonardo as she’s keeping Bohm on the cage. Things stall out enough for the ref to reset them. Bit of a combination for Leonardo. Bohm clinches again, they trade knees then Leonardo lands a right hand as they break. Bohm lands a body kick, Leonardo responds with a side kick to the body. Leonardo is hurt to the body, Bohm knees the body and Leonardo forces a clinch to ice the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Bohm but a close one, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: Bohm lands a right hand to start the round, Leonardo then counters with a couple of punches. Bit of a jab from Bohm. Bohm lands a calf kick. Side kick from Leonardo. They trade rights, Bohm is backing up and Leonardo cracks her again before they clinch up. Leonardo looks for a takedown but can’t find it, Bohm grabs at a standing guillotine but Leonardo postures through it. Some body shots from Leonardo land. Bohm lands knees to the body, Leonardo returns them then they separate. Bit of a right from Bohm. Combination from Leonardo, then Bohm lands a body kick before they clinch. Leonardo works some knees while looking for a trip but things stall out and the ref breaks them. Side kick from Leonardo lands. Elbow from Bohm, but Leonardo lands several body shots then an elbow of her own. Leonardo lands a couple of rights while avoiding a clinch. Bohm lands a leg kick then avoids the counters. Both women land rights in close. Leonardo tries a double leg, that hits the fence and stalls out. Some knees from Leonardo then she trips Bohm down into half guard. There’s not a ton of time left, and Leonardo unloads with some punches as the clock runs out.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Leonardo, 29-28 Leonardo overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Victoria Leonardo via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
No issue with Leonardo winning the second round, but again no interview for the winner.
Jai Herbert has gone 1-3 in the UFC and was last seen being knocked out by Ilia Topuria, now he’s trying to avoid another losing streak and draw his UFC record closer to the .500 mark. Kyle Nelson has likewise gone 1-3 in the UFC and is coming off of a knockout loss, but he’s also been out of action since September of 2020 and now looks for the move to lightweight to breathe some life into his UFC run. Herbert is the favorite at -285 to the +240 underdog Nelson.
Lightweight Bout: Jai Herbert (11-4, 155 lbs.) vs. Kyle Nelson (13-4, 155 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Herbert is two inches taller with a significant six inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Both men avoid right hands. Body kick from Nelson then a leg kick to follow it up. Another body kick from Nelson. Herbert jabs the body. Another body kick from Nelson then a calf kick to follow up, Herbert is not liking those body kicks. Herbert avoids a left hook. Nelson lands a calf kick. Body kick from Herbert, Nelson catches it though and forces things to the fence. Nelson is after a high crotch, Herbert is defending though and Nelson lands a few short punches as they settle into a clinch. Some knees are traded as Herbert gets Nelson on the fence but Nelson lands a hard elbow. They jockey for position and trade some knees. Nelson lands a couple of elbows. More elbows from Nelson then he slips out of the clinch. Head kick from Nelson. Nelson lands a calf kick, Herbert didn’t like that one. Another calf kick from Nelson. Nelson lands a body kick then calf kick as the last relevant blows of the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Nelson
ROUND TWO: They split jabs to start the round. A lot of circling from Herbert, Nelson then lands a body kick. Herbert lands a jab. Nelson avoids a few combinations then lands a calf kick. Jab from Herbert then they trade calf kicks. Nelson eats a calf kick then lands a body kick and a calf kick of his own. Herbert lands a left to the body. They clinch up, Nelson lands a knee to the body then gets Herbert on the cage. They start fighting for position in the clinch, Nelson is getting the better of things thus far. Nelson starts sneaking in some knees while they wrestle in the clinch. Herbert tries a foot sweep, Nelson defends and they trade knees. Elbow from Herbert then a knee. Herbert lands a right hand as they break. Nelson might be fading, he’s starting to look more labored. Herbert lands a right hand. Calf kick from Nelson. Herbert punches into a clinch and lands knees. Nelson lands a couple of punches and tries a single leg, Herbert sprawls away from that and they wind up clinched again as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Herbert, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Calf kicks go back and forth, Herbert’s lead leg is definitely damaged at this point given how he’s moving. Nelson lands a body kick then a calf kick. Herbert avoids a knee tap and gets on top in half guard. Not a lot of offense from Herbert but he’s not allowing Nelson to do much with his half guard. A few punches from Herbert land. Nelson shrimps to full guard. Herbert moves to half guard, Nelson is trying to wall walk but Herbert is able to beat him to the positions and maintain control. Nelson does wall walk but eats punches along the way. There’s a body lock for Nelson but he’s struggling to find offense. The round will end in the clinch.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Herbert, 29-28 Herbert overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jai Herbert via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)
No interview for the winner, guess if you don’t get a finish you don’t get the mic for the prelims.
Muhammad Mokaev is undefeated including a very fast win in his UFC debut earlier this year, now he’s trying to solidify his status as a rising flyweight prospect with another win. Charles Johnson brings a four fight winning streak into his UFC debut and if he can upset the highly touted Mokaev it’ll be a great first win to start his UFC career on. The odds are with Mokaev at a whopping -500 while the +400 payout on Johnson has to tempt some degenerate gamblers out there.
Flyweight Bout: Charles Johnson (11-2, 125.5 lbs.) vs. Muhammad Mokaev (6-0 1 NC, 126 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Johnson is two inches taller but the reach is identical, though Mokaev is also a full decade younger. Some stance switching right away from Johnson as Mokaev pushes forward. Mokaev misses a couple of punches. Bit of a left from Mokaev. Mokaev lands a left to the body then a calf kick. Punches from Mokaev then he clinches up. Johnson gives up the back in the clinch, Mokaev hits a mat return but Johnson scrambles back up right away. More work from the back standing from Mokaev but Johnson is blocking suplex attempts with a leg lace. Mokaev does hit a mat return then Johnson bounces up again. Johnson is bleeding from the bridge of his nose, not sure what caused that. Mokaev lands a few punches. Johnson lands a back elbow but he’s struggling to attack the grip of Mokaev. Mokaev is able to hit a trip takedown, but Johnson comes up again right away. Mokaev tries a double leg, Johnson keeps getting up right away and he’s forcing Mokaev to just control rather than do much else as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Mokaev
ROUND TWO: Johnson shows front kicks as the round begins. Mokaev lands a leg kick. They clash on kicks, then Mokaev misses a spinning back fist. Johnson sprawls away from a double leg. Mokaev lands a right hand. Calf kick from Johnson. Mokaev tries a takedown against the fence, he’s able to finish the double leg as Johnson is sitting against the fence. Some elbows from Johnson before he regains his feet as Mokaev gets his back standing. Johnson gets chest to chest and lands a knee. Duck behind from Mokaev and he’s on the back standing again. Mokaev drags things to the mat, he’s looking for the back but wont find it and has to switch to getting on top in full guard. Johnson kicks Mokaev off, but Mokaev dives back into his guard before he can regain his feet. Mokaev looks to pass and gets to side control. Johnson gets back to full guard and that’s where the round will end.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Mokaev, 20-18 Mokaev overall
ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Johnson lands a calf kick. Body kick from Johnson. Another body attack from Johnson then Mokaev forces a clinch and starts looking to wrestle again. It takes a bit but Mokaev is able to get Johnson down. Johnson wall walks and Mokaev gets the back again standing. Mokaev is able to hit an ankle pick as Johnson looks to separate. Johnson wall walks again, Mokaev hits a German suplex and gets into the backpack position as Johnson stands. Next Mokaev bails on the backpack to just retain the back in the clinch. Johnson is able to separate from the clinch and lands a body kick. Mokaev doesn’t want any of this and forces another clinch. Mokaev looks for a single leg, switches to a double leg and Johnson looks to spin to the ride position but Mokaev blocks him. Johnson lands a few short elbows but he’s unable to address the attack and Mokaev moves to the back standing again. Johnson grabs at a guillotine as Mokaev moves for a double leg, he bails on it though and elbows the back of Mokaev. Mokaev blocks a switch attempt and gets Johnson to the floor one last time as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Mokaev, 30-27 Mokaev overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Muhammad Mokaev via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
Solid grappling attack from Mokaev, though Johnson impressed with his defense and ability to keep that pace. No interview for Mokaev.
Makwan Amirkhani just broke a three fight losing streak back in March, now he’s trying for his first winning streak since 2019 and is looking to reclaim the hype that used to surround him. Jonathan Pearce has gone 3-1 in the UFC but he’s 3-0 at featherweight and now looks to extend his current winning streak while securing the highest profile win of his career. It’s no surprise that Pearce is the favorite at -175 to a +150 payout for Amirkhani.
Featherweight Bout: Makwan Amirkhani (17-7, 145.5 lbs.) vs. Jonathan Pearce (12-4, 145 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Pearce is two inches taller while Amirkhani has an inch of reach advantage. Southpaw for Amirkhani. Pearce shows kicks and jabs as he circles. Amirkhani misses a flying knee. Pearce misses a punch, Amirkhani tries a single leg and Pearce lands elbows while defending. Amirkhani is cut from all these elbows, he does finally get Pearce’s seat to the mat but Pearce bases up and stands, only get get mat returned by Amirkhani. Again Pearce stands, Amirkhani keeps working mat returns but one of them Pearce is able to spin to top position, Amirkhani moves out to a ride and goes for an anaconda choke. They wind up in a front headlock position, Pearce is able to hit a single leg from his knees and get on top with Amirkhani still working his front headlock sequence. Amirkhani is after the anaconda again but he can’t get the grip right and Pearce gets free then separates. Amirkhani looks a little fatigued now. Pearce blocks a kick. Bit of a left from Amirkhani. One two from Pearce. Amirkhani hits a double leg but can’t control it and Pearce uses a double wrist lock to sweep and come up on top in half guard. Elbows from Pearce as Amirkhani tries to scramble. Amirkhani tries a single leg again, again he’s eating a lot of elbows from Pearce and Pearce gets on top in full guard. More elbows from Pearce as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Pearce
ROUND TWO: Pearce lands a couple of body kicks to start the round. Amirkhani is visibly slower now. Pearce lands an inside leg kick. Another body kick from Pearce then an inside leg kick. Both men land punches in close. Inside leg kick from Pearce then a couple of punches to follow up. Pearce lands a combination then hits a double leg against the fence. Amirkhani tries for a 100%, but Pearce defends then moves to the back and switches to half guard as Amirkhani keeps scrambling. More punches from Pearce and he moves to side control. Knee to the body from Pearce, then a few more and hammer fists to follow up. Amirkhani is pinned against the fence and Pearce is beating him up here. Amirkhani is looking to wall walk, Pearce knees him as he does so then he takes Amirkhani back down. Pearce lands an elbow then follows up with punches. Half guard for Pearce now, and he’s just unloading with punches and elbows as Amirkhani is in survival mode. Amirkhani goes to his knees, Pearce keeps landing punches along the way and Amirkhani just melts leading to the ref stepping in to save him.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jonathan Pearce via TKO, punches and elbows, at 4:10 of Round 2
Solid win for Pearce, and as our first finish of the evening he gets an interview. Pearce didn’t know how the fight was going to go but he’s here and puts himself over. He puts over his coaches and training partners for improving him as a fighter.
Here’s the finish, Pearce has broken Amirkhani at this point and just has to find smart shots to continue the punishment and force the ref to step in and stop things.
The HUGE ground strikes led to the finish for JSP 👊#UFCLondon pic.twitter.com/KPoUJDGUHz
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 23, 2022
Nathaniel Wood had a fair bit of hype in 2019 but a key loss derailed a lot of that momentum, now he’s just 1-2 in his last three fights and has had a long layoff since his 2020 loss to Casey Kenney. Wood is trying to rebuild the momentum he used to have and prove he’s a viable force in his new home at featherweight. Charles Rosa has been very up and down in the UFC but currently finds himself on a two fight losing streak and needs a win rather badly if he wants to try and be a relevant fighter in the division. Wood is one of the biggest favorites on the card at -600 while the +450 comeback on Rosa might tempt a few degenerate gamblers out there.
Featherweight Bout: Charles Rosa (14-7, 145 lbs.) vs. Nathaniel Wood (17-5, 145.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Rosa is three inches taller but the reach is identical. Both men start showing the jab as the round begins. Wood lands a calf kick. Rosa with a calf kick of his own. Another calf kick from Rosa. Wood lands a combination of punches. Body kick from Rosa, then Wood lands a calf kick and a one two. Single leg from Rosa stalls out on the fence and Wood spins him into the fence then separates. Bit of a right from Rosa. Wood lands another calf kick. Calf kick from Rosa, but he’s just reaching the target rather than going through it. Wood lands a calf kick then a right hand. Rosa is showing southpaw now, he lands a left hand. Knee from Rosa but Wood lands a counter left hook. Rosa lands a body kick then a knee, but again Wood counters with a left hook. Wood avoids a few punches then lands a calf kick. More punches from Wood, he’s looking incredibly sharp right now. Front kick and a few punches from Wood. Wood lands a calf kick. Rosa lands a body kick but his left leg is compromised. Left hook from Rosa. They clinch up, trade knees and Wood takes a shot to the groin so we’ve got a time out. We’re back to fighting after 40 seconds. Rosa lands a body kick. Wood lands a calf kick, that one really hurt. Rosa lands a left hand. Wood lands a left hand then they both miss elbows in close. Rosa catches a kick and gets a takedown into half guard. Wood looks for a sweep, Rosa grabs at a guillotine variation but wont finish it before the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Wood
ROUND TWO: Wood lands a right hand. Rosa is fighting a lot from southpaw, and Wood is cracking him with rights. Now Rosa is switching his stance a bit more freely, though he’s still favoring southpaw. Wood lands a left hook. Bit of a right from Wood and Rosa is cut on the left cheek now. Rosa lands a body kick. Bit of a calf kick from Wood then a right hand. Inside leg kick from Wood after he missed an elbow. Wood has begun to switch his stance as well, and he lands a couple of more calf kicks. Bit of a left from Rosa. Wood lands a left hook then avoids some kicks. Left hook then a calf kick from Wood that sweeps Rosa down. Jab from Wood. Wood lands a left hook then a calf kick. Rosa is just getting chewed up at this point. They clinch up in space, and trade elbows then Wood lands a leg kick as they break. Wood lands a left hand then a calf kick. Rosa is tough as nails because he’s taking a lot of abuse here and he’s still mentally in the fight. Wood lands a right hand. Rosa lands a calf kick, Wood responds with a right hand to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Wood, borderline 10-8, 20-18 Wood overall
ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the last round. Wood lands a calf kick. Jab from Wood. Rosa lands a leg kick, Wood counters with a right hand. Hard calf kick from Wood drops Rosa, but Rosa gets back up. Rosa tries a takedown, Wood defends with a sprawl and then lands a couple of punches. Body kick from Rosa, Wood counters with a left hook then Wood avoids a takedown. Knee from Rosa in close, Wood counters with a calf kick. They trade knees in the clinch then Rosa misses a spinning elbow. A couple of punches land for Wood in close, then an elbow. Rosa lands a left hand. Both men land punches in close. Power hand punches go back and forth then Wood drops Rosa with a calf kick and lands a right hand. Hard right from Wood then they trade blows in a clinch. Both men land elbows then Wood lands a calf kick as they separate. Wood lands a left hand. Rosa is trying to goad him into a brawl, then Wood lands a calf kick and Rosa tries a single leg as he’s falling but he winds up pulling a version of half guard. Wood stands free and then lands punches. Calf kick from Wood drops Rosa again. Rosa misses some wild punches and again tries to goad a brawl, which leads to Wood punching him in the face. Rosa hits a double leg and ends the round trying to grab at a guillotine along the fence.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Wood, 30-27 Wood overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nathaniel Wood via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26 x2)
Great return to action for Wood, he looked darn good here but doesn’t get an interview.
Marc Diakiese has gone 3-2 in his last five fights and he’s coming off of a win, but if he wants to start making real headway in the stacked lightweight division he needs to start building positive momentum here. Damir Hadzovic just broke a two fight losing streak and now looks for his first winning streak since 2019. Diakiese is a rather heavy -410 favorite while the +300 payout for Hadzovic is a rather tempting value bet.
Lightweight Bout: Marc Diakiese (15-5, 156 lbs.) vs. Damir Hadzovic (14-6, 156 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Diakiese is an inch taller wit hthree inches of reach advantage. They trade leg kicks right away. Diakiese shoots a double leg and is able to get Hadzovic down into full guard. Diakiese passes to half guard. Hadzovic gets full guard back. Bit of an elbow from Diakiese. Hadzovic keeps trying to wrap the head but he’s not getting close to attacking from that position. Not much is happening here, Diakiese is able to pass to half guard. Hadzovic looks to wall walk, Diakiese moves to the ride position and lands a few punches. Hadzovic regains his feet, Diakiese gets the back standing and hits a mat return. Full guard again for Hadzovic, and Diakiese moves to half guard then lands a hammer fist. The round ends in that position.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese
ROUND TWO: Hadzovic lands a calf kick. Diakiese is pressing forward, tries a double leg and they hit the fence. Diakiese switches to a single leg and spins Hadzovic down to the mat into half guard. A few short punches from Diakiese land. Hadzovic scoots to the fence and wall walks, then Diakiese trips him back down and gets on top in the ride position. Diakiese moves to mount the legs of Hadzovic and lands a couple of left hands. Hadzovic moves to sitting on the fence, we get a clash of heads and Hadzovic is cut around the left eye. The ref doesn’t like the look of this so we get a time out so the doctor can check on Hadzovic. Hadzovic can continue and the ref restarts them on the feet after a little over a minute. Hadzovic tries a single leg, Diakiese defends with a guillotine attack then switches to a takedown but Hadzovic defends. They trade lefts at distance. Diakiese lands a left hook. Uppercut from Diakiese then they clinch and the round ends with an elbow from Diakiese.
SCORECARD: 10-8 Diakiese but a borderline one, 20-17 Diakiese overall
ROUND THREE: Diakiese comes out quickly and gets a takedown into full guard. Some short blows to the body from Diakiese but he’s just controlling and stalling the round out. Hadzovic is trying to set up a wall walk but Diakiese is a step ahead and passes to half guard. A few lefts from Diakiese land. Some more punches from Diakiese, he’s staying busy enough for the ref to stay out of things. Hadzovic tries to hit a switch, Diakiese blocks that and lands a couple of punches. Hammer fist from Diakiese. Hadzovic fights to his feet, Diakiese misses a few kicks then hits a takedown as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Diakiese but another potential 10-8, 30-26 Diakiese overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marc Diakiese via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-26 x2)
Diakiese embracing his inner wrestler is an interesting choice for him. No interview for Diakiese.
Mason Jones has gone 1-1 with 1 No Contest in the UFC, but he’s coming off of a win and now looks to build his first UFC winning streak. Ludovit Klein has gone 2-2 in the UFC but he’s coming off of a win and now looks to build his first UFC winning streak. The odds are with Jones to a surprisingly heavy -390 while a Klein win would payout at +320.
Lightweight Bout: Mason Jones (11-1 1 NC, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Ludovit Klein (18-4, 155 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Jones is three inches taller with an inch and a half of reach advantage. Southpaw for Klein. Both men probe with the lead hand for a bit, just trying to get a read on the fight. Jones lands an uppercut. Left hand from Klein. Both men land punches. Solid left from Klein then a front kick to the body. Jones lands an inside leg kick. Both men miss power hand punches. Jones is the one pressuring forward, and they wind up clinched. A few knees from Jones, then they trade rights as they break the clinch, then they clinch again. Some knees go back and forth as they fight for position in the clinch. Klein lands an elbow as they break. Jones lands a body kick. Klein lands a head kick. Jones clinches up. Knee from Klein but Jones is able to land an elbow then a knee but misses an elbow as Klein slips free. Front kick from Klein then a left hand to follow up. Jones lands a body kick. Body kick from Klein but Jones counters with a punch. Klein lands a left. Jumping head kick from Klein lands, but Jones just eats it and clinches up again. They trade knees in the clinch then break. Klein lands a front kick to the body to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein but could go either way
ROUND TWO: Klein lands an inside leg kick, Jones counters with a left hook. Both men land punches. Left then a right from Klein drops Jones and he gets on top in half guard and starts dropping elbows. Jones is able to tie up and stall the offense but Klein definitely hurt him. Jones is able to hip escape to full guard. Klein lands some hammer fists as he avoids a higher guard from Jones. Klein lands some short blows, Jones is trying to work his guard but Klein is stifling the attacks. Hammer fist from Klein, then Jones tries to come up on a single leg though Klein spins to his back and starts working from the ride position. Jones is able to wall walk but Klein is on his back in the clinch. Some knees from Klein then Jones spins into him and they resume clinch fighting. Klein blocks a double leg attempt but Jones is able to land some knees to the body. A few more knees from Jones, Klein starts returning them then they separate. Front kick from Jones. Klein avoids a few punches then lands a left hand. Front kick from Klein. Jones tries a double leg, can’t get it but does land a knee to Klein but when he tries a judo throw Klein winds up on his back. They scramble up and into the clinch. Single leg from Jones but Klein defends and lands punches before the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein, 20-18 Klein overall
ROUND THREE: Klein comes out jabbing. Hard one two from Klein then they clinch and hit the fence. Some knees go back and forth then Jones jumps guard and Klein gets on top in full guard. I’m not sure why he thought that was a good idea. Klein lands some punches as Jones tries to work his guard. A few more strikes from Klein, Jones tries to kick him off but can’t get up in time and Klein returns to his guard. Elbow from Klein. Klein with some body shots then he pushes Jones into the fence. Jones is just kind of hanging on at the moment. Klein lands an elbow. Klein passes to the back as Jones tries to base and stand, Klein winds up in the backpack position as Jones stands. Klein bails on the back and keeps Jones pressed into the fence. They trade knees then Jones lands an uppercut. Bit of a knee from Jones as they break. Klein lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a left from Klein. Klein lands a left hand as the last blow of the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Klein, 30-27 Klein overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ludovit Klein via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
No interview for Klein as we close out the prelims.
Paul Craig is on a six fight unbeaten streak that has seen him crack the top ten rankings, now he’s trying to continue that streak here and possibly earn a shot at someone near the very top of the division. Volkan Oezdemir has gone 2-2 in his last four fights but is on a two fight losing streak, if he wants to possibly contend for the title again he can ill afford a second three fight losing streak during his UFC time. Oezdemir is a slight favorite at -150 to a +130 comeback on Craig.
Light Heavyweight Bout: #8 Paul Craig (16-4-1, 206 lbs.) vs. #9 Volkan Oezdemir (17-6, 205.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Craig is an inch and a half taller with one inch of reach advantage. Oezdemir comes out jabbing and pushing Craig back. Leg kick from Oezdemir. Craig pulls guard, tries to come up on a single leg but Oezdemir avoids that then steps away from a leg entanglement. Craig forces a clinch and they hit the fence. Again Craig pulls guard, he attacks a heel hook but Oezdemir isn’t in too much danger yet. Craig tries to adjust his attack, Oezdemir is pulling at his gripping arms. That heel hook is getting a little more dangerous, Oezdemir rolls and Craig switches to a kneebar but Oezdemir gets free and forces a reset. Oezdemir lands a leg kick, then Craig pulls guard. Full guard for Craig, Oezdemir lands a few short punches. Craig switches to attacking a leg with a De La Riva guard, Oezdemir postures through then stands free. Oezdemir avoids a guard pull and lands a few short elbows as Craig comes up looking for a single leg. Craig can’t hold the leg and Oezdemir slips free. Craig is cut around the right temple from some of those elbows. Front kick from Craig then a leg kick. Oezdemir lands a right hand. Left hook from Oezdemir, Craig keeps trying to get him down into his guard and Oezdemir isn’t having it. Oezdemir avoids a double leg. Bit of a jab from Craig. Oezdemir lands a calf kick. Craig lands a left, then a head kick but Oezdemir stalks forward and punches into a clinch to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Craig but could go either way
ROUND TWO: Oezdemir comes out jabbing again. Bit of a head kick from Craig, Oezdemir catches it and shoves Craig over. Right hand from Craig lands. Oezdemir lands a couple of calf kicks. Craig lands a calf kick then a spinning back kick, he tries a double leg then drops to attack the legs but Oezdemir gets free. A lot of forward pressure from Craig, he’s brawling and gets close then pulls half guard. Oezdemir lands body shots from on top. Oezdemir stands free and Craig comes up punching. Craig lands a front kick. Spinning back kick from Craig. Oezdemir stuffs a double leg and gets on top in 3/4 mount. Craig adjusts to get half guard, then works for full guard before Oezdemir stands free and makes Craig stand. Bit of a right from Oezdemir. Another right from Oezdemir, now Craig is cut around the left cheek bone. Right hand from Oezdemir lands. Craig lands a couple of punches then a spinning elbow. Oezdemir lands a left hook, then another as Craig pulls half guard. Oezdemir stands out of the guard and makes Craig stand. Both men land rights. Solid right from Oezdemir, then Craig pulls half guard again. The round ends with Oezdemir landing body blows on top.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Oezdemir, 19-19 overall
ROUND THREE: Craig comes out jabbing. They trade some kicks while circling. Oezdemir lands a few body shots then wobbles Craig with a right hand. Craig pulls half guard and Oezdemir starts unloading with punches down on the mat, but Craig attacks an arm and Oezdemir stands free then makes Craig stand. Calf kick from Oezdemir. Craig lands a calf kick of his own. Oezdemir smothers a double leg and gets on top again, then stands free. Back on the feet now and Craig looks to jab. They split jabs. Bit of a right from Craig but things are slowing down even more. Oezdemir lands a jab then a calf kick. Craig tries to goad Oezdemir into a brawl, Oezdemir isn’t biting. They trade some jabs, then Craig misses an elbow. Oezdemir avoids a spinning elbow then stands over a guard pull attempt. Craig lands a right hand. Oezdemir blocks a high kick. Craig lands a body kick. Oezdemir lands another calf kick. They trade combinations then Oezdemir avoids a leg attack. Body jab from Oezdemir then he misses a left hook. Both men land punches as the clock winds down.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Oezdemir, 29-28 Oezdemir overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Volkan Oezdemir via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
No issues with Oezdemir getting the first. Mic time for Oezdemir, he puts over Craig as a dangerous opponent but he was prepared and followed the game plan. He puts over his coaches for getting him ready to close.
Molly McCann is on a two fight winning streak and scored a brutal knockout win in her last fight, now she’s looking for a third consecutive win here that could see her earn a shot at some ranked opposition. Hannah Goldy got her first UFC win in her last fight, now she’s trying to build her first UFC winning streak and score the highest profile win of her career. The odds are firmly with McCann at -450 while Goldy’s underdog status sits at +360.
Women’s Flyweight Bout: Hannah Goldy (6-2, 125 lbs.) vs. Molly McCann (12-4, 125.5 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while McCann has an inch of reach advantage. McCann pushes forward, and they both land right hands. Both women land punches in close. Goldy lands a calf kick, then a right hand after a brief tie up. McCann lands a right. Goldy uses a left hand to keep McCann at bay. McCann starts switching her stance as she resumes pressuring forward. Inside leg kick from Goldy. Goldy tries a single leg, they hit the fence and start working in the clinch. Some knees from Goldy as she’s got a body lock. McCann remains upright after avoiding a trip attempt. They break without incident. Bit of a left hook from Goldy. Leg kick from McCann, Goldy catches the leg but can’t do anything with it. McCann lands a right hand. Goldy lands a left hook in close. McCann trips Goldy down, Goldy ties up her legs for a moment then McCann stands free. McCann unloads on Goldy with a right hand, hits a back elbow, and keeps throwing punches until Goldy drops and the ref stops the fight.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Molly McCann via TKO, punches, at 3:52 of Round 1
The First Round Finish Club thanks Ms. McCann for her work this afternoon. Mic time for McCann, she thanks the fans for all of their support and buries everyone on the card for not getting finishes. Asked about the future she tells the UFC brass to do their job, but she’s committed to the game and ready for another fight soon. To close she gets the crowd to sing along with her.
Nothing fancy about the finish here, McCann just sees an opening and once Goldy is on the back foot she never gives her a chance to recover.
MCCANN STRIKES GOLD AGAIN AT #UFCLondon 😤 pic.twitter.com/wm95DWsRrQ
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 23, 2022
Nikita Krylov has gone just 2-3 in his last five fights and is on a two fight losing streak, this is somewhat mitigated by the level of opposition he’s faced and one of those losses being a controversial split decision. Despite that Krylov needs a win here if he wants to defend his ranking and remain a relevant fighter in the division. Alexander Gustafsson is one of the better fighters to never wear a UFC title, but he’s on a three fight losing streak and has been out of action for two years. This fight represents a crossroads for Gustafsson as a loss would almost certainly send him back into retirement. Krylov is your -205 favorite to +175 for Gustafsson.
Light Heavyweight Bout: Alexander Gustafsson (18-7, 205 lbs.) vs. #11 Nikita Krylov (27-9, 204 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Gustafsson is two inches taller with an inch and a half of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Krylov lands a leg kick then a right hand. A right from Krylov drops Gustafsson, he looks to follow up and lands knees then unloads with more punches along the fence. Gustafsson ties up and hangs on but when the break Krylov is right back in his face with punches. Bit of a right from Gustafsson. Krylov lands a body kick, then drops Gustafsson with a punch and this time he’s able to stand over Gustafsson and land enough punches to force the stoppage.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Nikita Krylov via KO, punches, at 1:07 of Round 1
The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Krylov for his work this afternoon. Mic time for Krylov, he speaks some broken English and says he worked hard on his boxing for this fight. He puts over his coaches and thanks his family for their support. Asked what he wants next he calls this the biggest name on his resume and he wants a fight with Volkan Oezdemir. Reasonable call out.
Here’s the finish, Krylov never allowed Gustafsson to get into the fight. He just blugeoned Gustafsson over and over again until the damage finally became too much.
CAUGHT HIM COLD 👊 #UFCLondon pic.twitter.com/e7detLq2ds
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 23, 2022
Paddy Pimblett has gone 2-0 in the UFC and has an overall four fight winning streak, he’s got a serious fan following and now looks to get another win in his home country while continuing to improve as a fighter. Jordan Leavitt has gone 3-1 in the UFC and is on a two fight winning streak, given how popular Pimblett is this represents the highest profile fight of Leavitt’s career and a chance to raise his stock significantly with a win. The odds are with Pimblett at -250 while the +210 payout on Leavitt might tempt a few bettors out there.
Lightweight Bout: Jordan Leavitt (10-1, 155 lbs.) vs. Paddy Pimblett (18-3, 156 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Pimblett is an inch taller with two inches of reach advantage. Leavitt comes out kicking as Pimblett stalks forward. Pimblett misses a few punches, Leavitt tries a single leg and they hit the fence. Trip from Leavitt, Pimblett bounces right back up but he’s still clinched. Some knees go back and forth then Leavitt gets a high crotch lift and takes Pimblett down. Pimblett is after a guillotine choke but he’s not able to use his legs yet. Pimblett gets full guard and looks to finish the choke but Leavitt is able to break his grip and release the choke. Quick get up from Pimblett and Leavitt lands some body shots then an elbow. Pimblett jumps for a guillotine but loses the grip going down and Leavitt gets his back standing. Leavitt lands a knee then rides Pimblett down to the mat. Pimblett wall walks but he’s still stuck to Leavitt. Some more short blows from Leavitt, Pimblett tries to hit a switch as they wrestle but Leavitt drives him into the fence again. They trade some knees then Leavitt lands a left hand as they break. Front kick from Leavitt. Pimblett grabs a guillotine standing and spins Leavitt down to the mat then gets on top in side control. Leavitt rolls to his knees, Pimblett looks for the back and swings a few punches as the round ends.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Pimblett but could go either way
ROUND TWO: Pimblett comes out swinging and missing punches. Leavitt lands a left hand. Some front kicks from Leavitt land. Pimblett lands a right hand but he’s not got a feel for the range yet. More front kicks from Leavitt land. Leavitt lands a right hand. Single leg from Leavitt, they wind up hitting the fence again. Some knees from Leavitt, Pimblett lands an elbow. Leavitt lands more knees, then he blocks a judo throw attempt. Pimblett reaches for a choke attempt, they’re at an odd angle but he lands a knee then spins to the back and gets a body triangle. One of Leavitt’s arms is trapped by the body triangle of Pimblett. Pimblett is fishing for the choke, he gets it and Leavitt has to tap.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Paddy Pimblett via Submission, rear naked choke, at 2:46 of Round 2
Mic time for Pimblett, he plays with the crowd but says he’s disappointed in his performance and feels he’s better than this. He puts over the crowd, then dedicates the fight to a baby who passed recently then talks about a friend who committed suicide during fight week. He says if you’re a man with weight on your shoulders find someone to speak with, he’d rather have his friend crying on his shoulder than be going to his funeral next week. Asked about the future he wants another fight before the year ends.
Jack Hermansson has traded wins and losses while going 3-3 in his last six fights, he’s coming off of a loss though and is trying to avoid his first losing streak since 2013. Chris Curtis took this fight on short notice but he’s on an eight fight winning streak with three wins in the UFC and could crash the top fifteen rankings if he’s able to best Hermansson here. This one closed at a -110 pick ’em according to the odds.
Middleweight Bout: Chris Curtis (29-8, 186 lbs.) vs. #8 Jack Hermansson (22-7, 186 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Hermansson is three inches taller with two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Curtis. Hermansson lands a leg kick. Curtis avoids a few punches. One two from Curtis. Bit of a leg kick from Hermansson. Curtis avoids a few kicks, then lands a left to the body. Hermansson had a kick blocked, then avoids a left hand from Curtis. Glancing knee from Hermansson. Hermansson lands a few jabs while circling. Curtis blocks a kick. Hermansson lands a calf kick. Bit of a left from Curtis. Hermansson lands another calf kick, he’s just chipping away as he circles. Curtis lands a left to the body, then another one. Hermansson lands a right hand, tries a single leg but can’t get Curtis down. Curtis lands another left to the body. More body work from Curtis as he’s walking Hermansson down. Hermansson lands another calf kick. Curtis blocks some kicks and Hermansson circles away to end the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Hermansson
ROUND TWO: Hermansson comes out kicking again as he circles. Curtis is pressing forward and lands a left hand. Another left from Curtis. More kicks from Hermansson as he circles. Curtis lands a left to the body. More body shots from Curtis as he’s getting Hermansson closer to the fence. Front kick from Hermansson lands. More kicks from Hermansson, he’s content to pick at Curtis and avoid anything more serious. Curtis lands a body shot. Hermansson lands a body kick then tries a double leg but Curtis stuffs that with ease. A head kick from Hermansson seems to stagger Curtis, he looks to follow up along the fence with punches and elbows. Curtis is covering up and then lands a left hand. A few jabs from Hermansson as they reset. Curtis lands a couple of lefts. Body shot from Curtis. Hermansson lands a front kick. A right from Curtis seems to off balance Hermansson for a second. More circling and sniping from Hermansson. Curtis lands a left hand. Hermansson lands a right hand. Curtis digs a left to the body to close the round.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Hermansson, 20-18 Hermansson overall
ROUND THREE: Hermansson fires a head kick to start the round. More kicks from Hermansson but Curtis is still pressing forward. Curtis lands a body shot. Hermansson avoids some kicks then lands a leg kick. Curtis avoids a double leg. Another left to the body from Curtis. Hermansson has a head kick blocked. One two from Hermansson lands. More kicks from Hermansson, Curtis lands a jab. Hermansson lands a body kick. Curtis gets close enough to land a couple of punches. Hermansson tries a double leg, Curtis defends then Hermansson fires a body kick that hits the groin of Curtis so we’ve got a time out. Curtis takes a few seconds then we’re back to fighting. Hermansson lands a few jabs while circling. Side kick to the knee from Hermansson. Hermansson lands a body kick. Curtis lands a left to the body. They trade punches in close. Curtis lands a left hand, Hermansson didn’t like that one. A lot of pressure from Curtis now, Hermansson lands a kick and circles away from the fence. Body kick from Hermansson. Curtis misses a couple of punches. Now Curtis tries to goad Hermansson into a fight, Hermansson keeps circling and kicking until the clock runs out.
SCORECARD: 10-9 Curtis but could go the other way, 29-28 Hermansson overall
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jack Hermansson via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28 x2)
Hermansson does get an interview despite the fight sucking, he says there was too much adrenaline and he insulted Curtis when he shouldn’t have. He apologizes to the fans noting he was supposed to fight Darren Till and had to adjust to Curtis on short notice. He mentions Curtis having good takedown defense and he had to be willing and able to strike with him, then hopes the main event doesn’t disappoint the fans. Asked about the future he would like to make the Till fight happen, then says he’d like to fight in Sweden later this year and hopes Norway finally legalizes MMA.
Curtis Blaydes has been a top heavyweight for a few years now but he’s struggled to win the key fights that would earn him a shot at the title. Blaydes is on a two fight winning streak though and if he can turn back the surging Aspinall here it could finally earn him a shot at some kind of UFC gold. Tom Aspinall is on an eight fight winning streak including being 5-0 in the UFC, he’s finished all of his opponents before the third round and was last seen submitting Alexander Volkov in the first round. If Aspinall can become just the third man to beat Blaydes it could easily send him into the title picture. The odds lean towards Aspinall at -140 to a +120 comeback on Blaydes.
Heavyweight Bout: #4 Curtis Blaydes (16-3 1 NC, 260 lbs.) vs. #6 Tom Aspinall (12-2, 251 lbs.)
ROUND ONE: Aspinall is an inch taller while Blaydes has two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Aspinall, they touch gloves to get us going. Aspinall starts switching his stance, they trade punches. Blaydes lands a right hand to counter a leg kick, and Aspinall drops clutching his knees and we’re done. Well that’s horribly unfortunate.
OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Curtis Blaydes via TKO, knee injury, at :15 of Round 1
The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Blaydes for his work this afternoon. I’m not sure what got hurt on Aspinall, there wasn’t a visible bone break but there could have been a tear given how he landed. It takes a while for Aspinall to get into the mobile wheelchair with his leg isolated. Mic time for Blaydes, he feels like they didn’t even fight and puts over Aspinall as a win over him would have been legit and he can only apologize. He reiterates that he wanted to have a fight and it’s a shame they didn’t get to do that.
Apparently the ringside doctor thinks Aspinall tore his MCL given how much pain Aspinall was in, obviously that isn’t official but is something to keep in mind.
Well on that somewhat unfortunate note, UFC on ESPN+ 66 comes to a close. We’ll be unpacking all of the fallout from this event tomorrow on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast, plus looking ahead to UFC 277. UFC 277 will be next week and I’ll be back here covering it for all of you, and I hope you’ll be here. Until then thanks as always for reading, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.