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December 17, 2022 | Posted by Robert Winfree
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MAIN CARD (ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET)
#3 Jared Cannonier (185.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Sean Strickland (186 lbs.)
#12 Damir Ismagulov (156 lbs.) vs. #9 Arman Tsarukyan (155.5 lbs.)
#8 Amir Albazi (125.5 lbs.) vs. Alessandro Costa (125.5 lbs.)
#15 Alex Caceres (145 lbs.) vs. Julian Erosa (145.5 lbs.)
Drew Dober (156 lbs.) vs. Bobby Green (156 lbs.)
Cody Brundage (185 lbs.) vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (186 lbs.)

MAIN CARD (ESPN+, 4 p.m. ET)
Cory McKenna (115.5 lbs.) vs. Cheyanne Vlismas (115.5 lbs.)
Jake Matthews (171 lbs.) vs. Matt Semelsberger (171 lbs.)
Saidyokub Kakhramonov (136 lbs.) vs. Said Nurmagomedov (136 lbs.)
Rafa Garcia (155 lbs.) vs. Hayisaer Maheshate (158.5 lbs.)*
Bryan Battle (170 lbs.) vs. Rinat Fakhretdinov (171 lbs.)
#9 David Dvorak (125.5 lbs.) vs. #12 Manel Kape (126 lbs.)
Sergey Morozov (136 lbs.) vs. Journey Newson (135.5 lbs.)

Well everyone, this is it, the final UFC event of 2022, this is 411mania’s LIVE coverage of it, and I’m still Robert Winfree. Tonight we’ve got some pretty solid fights on paper, the main event is a relevant middleweight fight when Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland both try to avoid losing streaks while battling for position near the top of the division. The co-main event has all of my attention when rising lightweights Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov square off. Elsewhere on the main card we’ve got a fun little bout between Drew Dober and Bobby Green, plus Michal Oleksiejczuk tries to remain undefeated at middleweight. On the prelims we’ve got a couple of good fights, Jake Matthews vs. Matthew Semelsberger could be violent, and at bantamweight Saidyokub Kakhramonov vs. Said Nurmagomedov definitely has potential, plus Bryan Battle taking on Rinat Fakhretdinov might be fun, and at flyweight ranked fighters David Dvorak and Manel Kape will try to gain momentum going into the new year. It’s not a card that will grab a ton of main stream attention, but for those of us who watch a lot of MMA there’s a fair bit to be optimistic about here.

UFC on ESPN+ 74 comes to the world from the UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Brendan Fitzgerald, Dominick Cruz, and Paul Felder will be on commentary with Charly Arnolt as our roving reporter. As for the rules remember Nevada uses most of the new ones but you still only need one hand on the mat to be downed, and we do have instant replay plus the ability to restart the fight after replay is used if that’s applicable. Lastly keep in mind we’re in the smaller 25 foot diameter cage set up.

Sergey Morozov has traded wins and losses while going 2-2 in the UFC, but that’s a pretty deceptive record as he’s looked very good in those losses. Morozov won his last fight and now looks to close out the year with his first UFC winning streak. Journey Newson has gone 1-2 with 1 No Contest in the UFC, he’s coming off of a win though and is likewise trying for his first UFC winning streak. Morozov is a pretty heavy favorite at -325 against +270 on Newson.

Bantamweight Bout: Sergey Morozov (18-5, 136 lbs.) vs. Journey Newson (10-3 1 NC, 135.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Morozov is an inch taller while Newson has half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Morozov backs up Newson right away. Newson starts probing with kicks, mostly trying to maintain range and keep Morozov out of the pocket. Morozov avoids a few kicks while keeping up the general pressure on Newson. Newson lands a jab. They’re splitting jabs at the moment, Morozov is being patient and Newson is circling well. Newson lands a body kick. They trade punches in close. Double leg from Morozov, and he gets Newson down. Newson looks to wall walk, Morozov moves to the ride position then gets the back standing. Trip from Morozov and he’s in the ride again. Bit of a right from Morozov then some knees as Newson wall walks but he can’t get away from Morozov. Morozov lands a few knees to the leg while threatening another takedown. Knee to the head from Morozov, then Newson forces a scramble and he’s finally able to get free. Both men miss punches. Jumping body kick from Morozov. Morozov lands an inside leg kick. Both men miss some offensive moves as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Morozov but a close one

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Morozov lands a body kick. Newson keeps looking for side kicks. Calf kicks from Newson land. Morozov lands a body kick. Both men miss punches. Kicks are missed, then punches. Newson lands a calf kick. Morozov keeps pressuring forward, he’s starting to show body jabs now. Double leg from Morozov and he’s got Newson down against the fence. Morozov scoots to the ride and starts riding the leg. A few knees from Morozov land as Newson stands but he’s still clinched. Knees to the body from Morozov. Morozov pulls Newson back to the mat and resumes working knees to the leg and body. Newson wall walks but Morozov is all over him with mat returns and pretty consistent offense. The round ends in the clinch.

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

ROUND THREE: Newson misses a few punches. They trade left hooks. Newson lands a right hand but misses the head kick follow up. Double leg from Morozov, he gets Newson up and slams him down then moves to north-south. Morozov spins to the back and gets both hooks in. Hand fighting from Newson, and he’s able to use that to break free but Morozov dives back into the clinch and resumes working knees on the fence. Morozov is on the back in the clinch again, working knees and mat returns. More knees from Morozov, then he switches to a high crotch but winds up bailing on it as Newson gets chest to chest. Morozov with some knees then he slips to the back again. Newson breaks the grip and finally spins free. Both men miss some kicks. Morozov avoids a hook and ducks to the back of Newson again. Bit of a German suplex from Morozov, then he winds up in side control as the round ends.

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

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

Mic time for our winner and the translator, he gives glory to God and thanks everyone for the prep work that went into this. Asked about the future he says the fight was tough and notes he fights very tough fighters and feels this was a good test for him and he’s ready for anyone next.

Manel Kape has gone 2-2 in the UFC but he’s on a two fight winning streak with both of those being first round finishes, now he’s looking to prove he’s found his footing and start looking at higher ranked opposition with a third win here. David Dvorak just had a 16 fight winning streak broken back in March, now he’s trying to rebuild and score one of the better wins in his career if he can get by Kape here. The odds are with Kape at a rather heavy -250 while the +210 comeback on Dvorak might be a really tempting value bet.

Flyweight Bout: #9 David Dvorak (20-4, 125.5 lbs.) vs. #12 Manel Kape (17-6, 126 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Dvorak has half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. A lot of moving from Dvorak to start. A lot of feinting from both men, still just looking for a read. Kape has started switching his stance, something pretty common for him. Dvorak misses some punches. Now Dvorak has begun showing southpaw. Calf kick from Dvorak. Another calf kick from Dvorak. Kape looks to counter a calf kick and lands a right hand. A lot more forward motion from Kape now, he lands a right hook. Dvorak avoids a punch, gets the back standing and spins Kape down to land on top in side control. Some hammer fists from Dvorak as Kape gets full guard which he closes. Dvorak lands a few punches, then passes to half guard. Kape with some elbows from his back, then he reaches for a kimura which doesn’t seem to be doing much. Dvorak lands some elbows to the body and leg. Kape has the double wrist lock and looks to extend the kimura, he’s able to sweep with it and attacks with it from north-south. That kimura gets really tight, but Dvorak is able to defend long enough to see the end of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kape

ROUND TWO: The doctor came in to check the left arm and shoulder of Dvorak between rounds, Dvorak could do all the physical tests the doctor wanted so we’re back to fighting. Dvorak misses some kicks. Kape goes southpaw for a bit, he’s switching a bit more freely now. Dvorak avoids a few punches. Calf kick from Dvorak. That left arm of Dvorak might have passed the brief screening but the way he’s holding and using it, it’s definitely messed up just a bit. Kape lands a couple of punches. Dvorak lands a right hand. Calf kick from Dvorak but Kape responds with a few punches. Nicely timed knee from Kape then a right hook behind it. Dvorak is on the fence and Kape drops him with another right hand. Kape gets on top and lands some hammer fists. Dvorak is able to keep Kape at the end of his legs, and Kape decides to make him stand again. Kape with some hard body shots then a punch to the head. Right from Kape lands. They trade lefts, then Kape drops Dvorak with a right hand. Dvorak bounces up but he’s pinned on the fence and Kape lands a flurry of body shots. Kape tries a spinning elbow but Dvorak almost read it and gets the back then takes Kape down with one hook in on the back. They’ll end the round in that spot.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Kape but a borderline one, 20-17 Kape overall

ROUND THREE: Dvorak looks to pressure this round, he’s been backing up before but he knows he needs a finish. Kape avoids a wheel kick. Calf kick from Kape, then another one. Kape with another leg kick, but Dvorak lands a counter right this time. Kape misses an uppercut. Uppercut from Kape in close, then a left hook. Dvorak lands a jab, Kape complains of an eye poke and we get a time out. Replay shows the fingers didn’t hit the eye but instead tweaked the nose and we’re back to fighting. Kape starts showing the jab as he circles. Dvorak lands a calf kick. They trade rights then Kape lands a left to the body. Dvorak tries a double leg, but Kape is able to defend this one and reset. Bit of a left hook from Dvorak. Kape misses a spinning back fist. Right from Dvorak lands. Bit of an elbow from Kape lands, then a left hand. They clinch up and hit the fence. Knee from Kape then they break. Dvorak misses a left hook. Left then a right from Dvorak, partially successful. Kape lands a calf kick, then a left hook. That’ll end the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kape but the closest round, 30-26 Kape overall

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

A little surprised at the lack of 10-8’s for the second round, but overall Kape’s first two rounds were quite good. Mic time for Kape, he thought Dvorak was going to tap in the first and puts over his toughness and calls him legit. He says he lets the knockouts come to him, rather than force them, and again puts over Dvorak’s toughness. Asked about the future he says he’s not calling anyone out because everyone else should be doing that to him, and he’ll be the champion sooner rather than later. To close he gives love to Angola, his sponsors, and most importantly his daughter.

Bryan Battle is on a seven fight winning streak including three wins in the UFC, he’s coming off of a darn good performance when he knocked out Takashi Sato with a head kick in less than a minute and now looks to get his third win of 2022 and head into 2023 with some serious momentum. Rinat Fakhretdinov is on a rather lengthy 18 fight winning streak including a successful UFC debut back in June, now he’s looking to extend that streak and look towards even bigger things next year. This one is relatively close but the odds like Fakhretdinov at -155 to a +135 comeback for Battle.

Welterweight Bout: Bryan Battle (8-1, 170 lbs.) vs. Rinat Fakhretdinov (20-2, 171 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Battle is an inch taller with three inches of reach advantage. Both men with some feinting. Fakhretdinov lands an inside leg kick. Battle has a few kicks blocked then Fakhretdinov lands a right hand. Double leg from Fakhretdinov and he’s got Battle down with ease. Battle closes his guard and looks to get on a hip. A ton of control from Fakhretdinov, he starts landing some body shots then a right to the head. Battle scoots to the fence and Fakhretdinov is happy to crush him into it. Fakhretdinov lands lefts to the head. Fakhretdinov is stripping the posting limbs of Battle, he nearly gets the Dagestani handcuff but Battle gets his arm back. Some more punches form Fakhretdinov, and he postures through a triangle choke attempt. Battle keeps attacking with his guard but Fakhretdinov is defending and landing strikes. Hard right from Fakhretdinov drops Battle from his knees to his back and Fakhretdinov is back on top. Fakhretdinov lands an elbow. Battle looks to wall walk, he’s upright but Fakhretdinov is all over him with control and punches then a trip to land on top again in half guard. Battle gets full guard back. Fakhretdinov lands some elbows then a punch. Battle is cut around the left eyebrow, can’t see more than that though. A few more punches from Fakhretdinov then he moves to half guard again and lands more punches. That cut is in a bad spot now that I get a better look at it. Battle throws up a triangle attempt, nothing doing but it’ll stall out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Fakhretdinov, was bordering on 10-8 for a bit there

ROUND TWO: That cut isn’t in a good spot, but the doctor isn’t stopping it yet. Fakhretdinov punches forward and hits a double leg into full guard. Some punches from Fakhretdinov. Battle is fishing for a kimura but Fakhretdinov has a body lock going and breaking that grip will be difficult. Hard punches from Fakhretdinov land. The fence is really stifling Battle’s ground game, and Fakhretdinov is keeping him there and landing strikes. Some lefts from Fakhretdinov land as he looks to pass to the ride position. Fakhretdinov is in the ride now as Battle wall walks, Battle is up but Fakhretdinov is landing punches from the back. Battle tries a ninja choke, but he loses the grip as Fakhretdinov takes him back down and and is in full guard again. Fakhretdinov lands a couple of punches. Fakhretdinov now looks to pass, but decides against it in favor of control. Some more punches from Fakhretdinov land. Battle is trying to work his guard and lands a few elbows from his back. Fakhretdinov lands a few more punches to close the round.

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

ROUND THREE: Fakhretdinov comes out striking, he drops Battle with a right hand and jumps on top in the full guard of Battle. Lefts from Fakhretdinov now as he’s got Battle against the fence. Short elbows from Fakhretdinov then body shots as well. Battle is able to wall walk but Fakhretdinov takes him back down with relative ease. Another wall walk from Battle, Fakhretdinov lands a body shot then hits a double leg. More ground and pound from Fakhretdinov, he’s smothering and mauling Battle. Battle looks to wall walk but Fakhretdinov moves to half guard and shoves him back down. Fakhretdinov lands a few more punches, and Battle hip escapes to full guard. More punches from Fakhretdinov, then he hits a takedown as Battle wall walks. Fakhretdinov is in side control and unloads with punches from the top as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Fakhretdinov, 30-26 Fakhretdinov overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Rinat Fakhretdinov via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-25 x2)

OK, fire the judge who didn’t give Fakretdinov a single 10-8. No interview for the winner though.

Rafa Garcia has gone 2-3 in the UFC but he’s coming off of a loss and now tries to draw his UFC record to the .500 mark heading into the next year. Maheshate is on a seven fight winning streak and scored a win in his UFC debut back in June, he’s looking to extend that streak here to help smooth over the gaff he had on the scales. Garcia is a slight -150 favorite while Maheshate’s underdog status sits at +130.

Lightweight Bout: Rafa Garcia (14-3, 155 lbs.) vs. Hayisaer Maheshate (9-1, 158.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Maheshate is five inches taller but has just an inch and a half of reach advantage, plus Maheshate missed weight. The size difference is obvious when they square up and start circling. Bit of a right from Maheshate, Garcia ties up off of it and looks for a single leg but can’t do anything with it and they break. Maheshate starts jabbing, then they trade rights in close. A lot of front kicks from Maheshate. Garcia tries a double leg, they hit the fence though and things stall out. Maheshate lands a knee as they break the clinch. Bit of a left hook from Garcia lands. Garcia jabs the body. Maheshate misses a front kick. Garcia avoids some kicks, Maheshate is putting a fair amount of energy out there in these strikes. Right hand then a left hook from Garcia land. Maheshate lands a right hand. Garcia lands a left to the body. Another left to the liver from Garcia then a right hand to follow up. Maheshate doesn’t like those body shots, and he’s doing a lot of backing up. They trade rights. Garcia lands a calf kick. Maheshate misses a right hand and eats a left hook. Bit of a right from Garcia. A ton of pressure from Garcia now, he lands a right hand. Garcia lands a calf kick to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Garcia

ROUND TWO: Both men come out looking to push things. Calf kick from Garcia. Maheshate lands a knee, then defends the takedown attempt from Garcia. Bit of a front kick from Maheshate, and an elbow to follow up which cuts Garcia on the scalp. That cut is bleeding a lot but it’s way up on the head so it’s unlikely to be a fight ender unless the bone is visible. Garcia gets a takedown against the fence and lands hard punches. Maheshate wall walks, and the ref gets mad at Garcia for landing foot stomps because Maheshate is grounded, what a terrible call by the ref. Garcia lands a knee as they break. Single leg from Garcia out in space and he gets on top in half guard. Short elbows from Garcia, that cut is still leaking on Garcia. Maheshate moves to his knees, Garcia has a front headlock working though. A few punches from Garcia land as they break. Maheshate keeps looking for elbows but he’s not landing yet. Bit of a left from Garcia. Garcia hits another takedown and gets the ride position. Punches from Garcia as he gets the back with one hook in. More lefts from Garcia now, Maheshate moves to half guard and Garcia elbows him a few times. Garcia lands rights along the fence, Maheshate stands but he’s still in the clinch. Shoulder strikes from Garcia, he’s just looking to land anything he can. Garcia lands an elbow as they break, Maheshate might be cut now too but there’s so much blood in general it’s hard to tell. Maheshate has a few kicks blocked as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Garcia gets back to jabbing and pushing forward. Calf kick from Garcia. Maheshate misses an elbow and eats a right hand. I’m surprised Garcia abandoned the body shots, they were doing good work for him earlier. Maheshate avoids a right hand then lands a knee but Garcia gets a takedown into half guard. Garcia with some elbows to the head. Maheshate moves to his knees, Garcia uses a cradle to control and keep him down. They wind up on the fence, Garcia hits a takedown. Maheshate wall walks but Garcia is still all over him with short blows to the leg. Another wall walk from Maheshate, Garcia lands knees to the leg in the clinch. More knees from Garcia then they break. Garcia lands a jab, Maheshate tries an uppercut but can’t find it and then Garcia lands a left hook. Another left hook from Garcia lands. Jumping knee from Maheshate partially lands. Garcia tries a takedown, they hit the fence in then clinch and Garcia lands knees. Double leg from Garcia lands and he’s on top in half guard. Some short elbows from Garcia, then he closes the round with a flurry of punches on the mat.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Rafa Garcia via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

No interview for Garcia.

Said Nurmagomedov has gone 5-1 in the UFC and is on a three fight winning streak that has seen him crack the top rankings at bantamweight, now he’s trying to defend that ranking and take aim at some higher ranked opponents going forward. Saidyokub Kakhramonov is on a four fight winning streak including two wins in the UFC, now he’s looking to take out his highest profile opponent to date and possibly crack the rankings himself going into the new year. This one is very close by the odds, with Kakhramonov being a slight -115 favorite while the -105 on Nurmagomedov has to tempt some bettors out there.

Bantamweight Bout: Saidyokub Kakhramonov (10-2, 136 lbs.) vs. Said Nurmagomedov (16-2, 136 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Nurmagomedov has an inch of reach advantage. Kakhramonov comes out and forces a clinch right away on the fence. Nurmagomedov is defending takedowns and lands an elbow then tries a standing guillotine. Nurmagomedov pulls guard and locks up the guillotine, Kakhramonov is fighting the grip but he’s struggling and Nurmagomedov is tightening things up. Kakhramonov finally breaks the grip and settles into top position. Some body shots from Kakhramonov and he looks to pass but Nurmagomedov grabs another guillotine attack, Kakhramonov passes to half guard and Nurmagomedov bails on the choke to fight for position. Kakhramonov moves towards half guard, but Nurmagomedov blocks a punch and gets full guard back. Nurmagomedov wall walks and gets free. Spinning back kick from Nurmagomedov, but Kakhramonov is pushing forward and swinging punches. Nurmagomedov tries a takedown but Kakhramonov sprawls and starts working from the front headlock position. Kakhramonov tries a guillotine, he has to switch to a cradle as Nurmagomedov defends that. Nurmagomedov looks to wall walk, he’s up but still clinched. Kakhramonov lands some punches then tries a mat return as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Kakhramonov

ROUND TWO: Kakhramonov immediately punches into a takedown, Nurmagomedov with some elbows while defending but Kakhramonov gets the takedown and nearly has the back. Nurmagomedov scrambles up but Kakhramonov rides him back down and lands more punches from the ride position. Nurmagomedov tries a granby roll, but Kakhramonov is able to smother the motion and retain the ride position. Punches and hammer fists from Kakhramonov now. Nurmagomedov tries another roll but again there’s no momentum behind it. Kakhramonov’s control and pace is doing a lot of work. Kakhramonov looks for the back now, he keeps Nurmagomedov on the mat and is riding and flowing. Nurmagomedov does get up but Kakhramonov is all over him along the fence. Nurmagomedov tries another guillotine attack, he’s down but he’s got the ninja choke position and after an adjustment he’s able to finally tighten things up and force the tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Said Nurmagomedov via Submission, ninja choke, at 3:50 of Round 2

Heck of a fight, that was a sprint from start to finish. Mic time for Nurmagomedov and the translator, he went for the choke early but Kakhramonov fought through it several times. Asked about the pace and his cardio he feels he could have fought more rounds if necessary and only got going in the second round.

Here’s the finish. Nurmagomedov was behind pretty much all fight, but Kakhramonov leaves his head out just a little too long at one point and Nurmagomedov grabs the ninja choke then he’s able to tighten it up and suck the head of Kakhramonov into his chest to really compress everything.

Jake Matthews has been with the UFC since 2014 and he’s 4-1 in his last five fights plus he’s coming off of easily his most impressive performance in the UFC in his last fight. Now Matthews is trying to capitalize on that momentum and close out the year with a win. Matthew Semelsberger has gone 4-2 in the UFC but he’s coming off of a loss and is trying to avoid his first ever losing streak. The odds are solidly with Matthews at -305 against +255 for Semelsberger.

Welterweight Bout: Jake Matthews (18-5, 171 lbs.) vs. Matt Semelsberger (10-4, 171 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Semelsberger is an inch and a half taller with two inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Bit of a leg kick from Semelsberger. Matthews keeps circling, he looks very loose. Calf kick from Matthews. Another calf kick from Matthews. Bit of a right from Semelsberger. Matthews lands a few jabs while moving. Hard right from Semelsberger drops Matthews, he looks to flurry on the mat, Matthews is able to fight to his feet but he’s still wobbled. Matthews fires a few punches of his own to back off Semelsberger. Semelsberger goes southpaw and lands a left hand then some uppercuts in close and a single leg into full guard. A few punches from Semelsberger, Matthews lands an elbow from his back. Semelsberger lands an elbow of his own. Semelsberger stands and fires punches but can’t pass the legs of Matthews and has to settle for full guard again. Matthews lands another elbow from his back. Semelsberger lands a couple of punches to close out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Semelsberger

ROUND TWO: Both men fake punches to start. Matthews fires a kick. Semelsberger misses a calf kick. Single leg from Semelsberger, Matthews bounces up and lands an elbow. Semelsberger with some uppercuts before they break. Matthews lands a right hand. A left hook from Matthews catches Semelsberger off balance. Bit of a right to the body from Semelsberger. Matthews lands a jab. They trade against the fence, Matthews lands a left hook to end the exchange. Matthews avoids a few punches. Both men miss rights. Short right from Matthews in close lands. Double jab then a right hand from Matthews, he seems a lot more confident this round and has been doing solid work. They trade lefts in close. Semelsberger eats a left hook but lands a crushing right hand that drops Matthews. Semelsbergere with a knee then an uppercut in close. They trade punches again. Matthews has a few punches blocked to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Semelsberger but a close one, 20-18 Semelsberger overall

ROUND THREE: Semelsberger gets a quick knockdown with a right hand to start the final round, he gets on top but Matthews tries a guillotine choke on the way down. Matthews looks to adjust his grip and sweeps Semelsberger, then they scramble back up into a clinch. Things are stalling out in the clinch. Matthews lands some punches to the body but not much is going on. They break and Matthews lands a right hand. Semelsberger lands a right hand. Both men miss punches. Semelsberger lands a calf kick. Matthews lands a left hand. One two from Matthews. Semelsberger lands a right hand, but Matthews responds with a flurry of punches into a clinch. Matthews defends a single leg against the fence. Matthews slips free and lands a couple of punches. They miss punches and tie up, then Matthews hits a foot sweep to land on top in half guard. Semelsberger kicks Matthews off, but Matthews jumps back into the guard. The round will end on the mat.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Semelsberger but there’s a real argument for Matthews, 30-27 Semelsberger overall

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

Mic time for Semelsberger, he puts over Matthews as a warrior and says he wants to continue evolving his game.

Cheyanne Vlismas has gone 2-1 in the UFC and is on a two fight winning streak, she’s making her first appearance in over a year and is hoping for a win and a more active schedule next year. Cory McKenna has gone 2-1 in the UFC but she’s coming off of a win a few months back and now looks for her first UFC winning streak. Vlismas is your -180 favorite to +155 for McKenna.

Strawweight Bout: Cory McKenna (7-2, 115.5 lbs.) vs. Cheyanne Vlismas (7-2, 115.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height but Vlismas has four and a half inches of reach advantage. Both women with some feinting, then punches. Vlismas looks to get the jab going. McKenna keeps pressuring forward. They trade punches in close. Both women miss punches. Vlismas lands a leg kick. Vlismas with a counter combination that mostly lands. Hard right from Vlismas lands. McKenna’s jab is getting countered pretty reliably at this point. Vlismas lands a leg kick then a left hook. Another leg kick from Vlismas. McKenna lands a jab. Vlismas blocks a poorly attempted takedown. One two from Vlismas. They split some jabs while circling. A few punches go back and forth. They trade lefts. Vlismas lands a solid right hand. McKenna catches a body kick, tries a takedown and after a scramble she’s able to get on top in full guard. Vlismas works her guard high and fires some elbows from her back. McKenna with some body punches to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Vlismas

ROUND TWO: Vlismas gets back to jabbing and circling. McKenna is faking level changes now, and Vlismas is biting on them. Vlismas lands a right hand then a calf kick. Vlismas punches into a clinch, McKenna lands an elbow as she pushes Vlismas into the fence. Some knees from McKenna as she’s fighting for control. McKenna drops for a double leg, but Vlismas defends and lands a few knees to the head and body while holding aa double collar tie. Again McKenna tries to change levels but Vlismas defends. Vlismas finally gets free, they trade lefts then McKenna gets back into the clinch. McKenna tries a takedown, but Vlismas remains upright. Bit of a knee from Vlismas. McKenna looks for another takedown, again nothing really comes of it. McKenna lands some punches in the clinch. Vlismas lands a knee to the body, then another one. Double leg attempt from McKenna, she’s able to finish this one as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 McKenna, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They come out and trade, Vlismas lands a knee but McKenna clinches and gets a takedown into leg drag. Vlismas is able to hip escape to full guard. Elbow from Vlismas lands, I think that cut McKenna. Vlismas works her guard high again, but she can’t find anything with it. McKenna working the usual body to head punches with no effort to pass. Some more elbows from Vlismas. McKenna lands a few punches, and that blood is coming from the nose of McKenna not a cut. Some punches from McKenna. Vlismas tries an armbar, there’s not much armbar here but she might be able to sweep off of it. McKenna gets her arm free and lands a few punches. Vlismas goes back to the sweep attempt, she gets a little motion going but can’t actually get on top as McKenna comes out on top in half guard. A few punches from McKenna. Vlismas gets full guard, and lands some elbows. McKenna lands punches as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Cory McKenna via unanimous decision (29-28 x3)

Generic fight, no interview for McKenna as we’re apparently pressed for time before the main card should start.

Michal Oleksiejczuk has never lost at middleweight and returned to the division back in August when he bludgeoned Sam Alvey in the first round, now he’s looking to build another winning streak and start looking at more notable opponents going forward. Cody Brundage has gone 2-1 in the UFC but he’s on a two fight winning streak and could get his biggest win to date here as well as head into the next year with some pretty serious momentum. The odds are with Oleksiejczuk at -275 against +230 on Brundage.

Middleweight Bout: Cody Brundage (8-2, 185 lbs.) vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (17-5 1 NC, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Oleksiejczuk has two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Oleksiejczuk, and they touch gloves to get us going. Oleksiejczuk lands a left hand. Brundage shoots a takedown, he’s able to finish it against the fence. Oleksiejczuk looks to wall walk, he’s up but Brundage is able to sweep the legs out and pull him back down. Brundage is technically on the back, he gets a hook in but Oleksiejczuk stands again only to be spun back down. Both hooks technically for Brundage, but Oleksiejczuk sweeps him and gets on top in the full guard of Brundage. Oleksiejczuk lands some punches to the body and head. Hard lefts from Oleksiejczuk land then an elbow. There’s no control over the posture of Oleksiejczuk and he’s able to basically do ground and pound drills. Some elbows to the body from Oleksiejczuk then hard lefts to the head that hurt Brundage. Oleksiejczuk with another left, that one badly hurts Brundage and a few more follow up blows put him out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Michal Oleksiejczuk via KO, punches, at 3:16 of Round 1

The first Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Oleksiejczuk for his work this evening. Mic time for Oleksiejczuk and his translator, he speaks English but needs the questions translated, he puts over Brundage’s grappling but he was ready for the best in the division and let that work show. Asked about the future he wants to fight Chris Curtis as Curtis is a ranked fighter and he’d like to fight him. You know, I could get down with that fight for sure.

Here’s a look at the finish. Oleksiejczuk has serious power and Brundage had no control over his posture the entire time Brundage was on his back, that’s a really bad recipe for Brundage.

Drew Dober has been with the UFC since 2013 but seems to have found his footing recently, he’s 5-2 in his last seven fights and is on a two fight winning streak, he’s look for another three fight streak and potentially aiming for even more notable opponents going forward. Bobby Green has gone 2-3 in his last five fights and was last seen in a losing effort to current champion Islam Makhachev back in February, now he’s hoping to end the year on a win and start building back towards ranked opponents. Dober is a slight -155 favorite to a +135 comeback on Green.

Lightweight Bout: Drew Dober (25-11 1 NC, 156 lbs.) vs. Bobby Green (29-13-1, 156 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Green is two inches taller with an inch of reach advantage. Both men come out southpaw, though Green will do a fair bit of switching as the fight goes on. Left hand from Green lands, then another one. Dober ties up and tries a takedown, Green counters though and gets on top. Dober scrambles up and Green lands a left hand before they break. Stiff left from Green, then Dober lands a leg kick. The hand speed of Green is a problem for Dober. Some body jabs from Green then front kicks. Dober is pressing forward but not throwing much. Green lands another left hand. Hard right from Green staggers Dober. Green with a body kick then avoids the counters. Another left hand from Green lands. Green’s left hand cannot miss right now, he’s just busting up Dober’s face. Dober is bleeding from the nose, and misses a wheel kick. Another combination from Green lands. Leg kick from Dober. Hard right hook from Green in close. Another right from Green. Green catches a leg kick and lands a left hand. Left then a right from Green, the man just lands a lot. Dober lands a left hand but misses the follow ups. Stiff jab from Green. Green lands a left hand. Another jab from Green and he avoids the counter. Dober tries to clinch, but Green circles away quickly. Bit of a leg kick from Dober. They trade some punches in close. Green lands a left then a front kick. A body kick from Green, then he avoids a wheel kick to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Green

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves again. Green resumes circling and landing punches. Dober lands a leg kick. Hard one two from Green, then he walks Dober into a right hand. Dober has a chin, because he’s still coming forward despite the damage. Green lands a a couple of rights, then Dober lands a left. Front kick from Green then Dober lands a spinning back fist. Left from Green. Dober misses a few kicks then Green lands a body kick. Green lands a right hand as Dober tries to close distance. Left from Green, then Dober tries a clinch but can’t get anything off of it before they break. Green lands another left hand. Dober lands a leg kick. Body kick from Green but he eats a counter punch. Green keeps stabbing the body with front kicks. Body kick from Green then a right hand but Dober lands a left. They get close and Green lands a left hand but doesn’t get his hands back up and Dober crushes him with a left hand that drops him and prompts the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Drew Dober via KO, punches, at 2:45 of Round 2

Heck of a fight there. Mic time for Dober, he puts over Green as the only man all quarter to accept a fight with him and he says more fighters should take risks like that. He knew this was going to be a tough fight, and had a hard time finding Green but he’s blessed and eventually found the shot. He talks us through the finish and says he brings a chin and a left hand into every fight. Asked about the future he’d like to fight Jalin Turner next. To close he says he’s tied Dustin Poirier for most knockouts in the lightweight division with this one and wants to come for that number one spot.

Here’s the finish. Green had been sniping at Dober all fight, and you can see even here Green lands 3 or 4 punches as Dober fights in close. But Dober fights the one punch he needs to end things.

Alex Caceres is a UFC veteran having been with the promotion since 2011, he just had a five fight winning streak snapped back in March and now looks to avoid his first losing streak since 2017. Julian Erosa is on a three fight winning streak and looks for a fourth win here that might earn him either a top ranking or another shot at ranked opposition his next time out. The odds are with Erosa at -165 against the +140 of Caceres.

Featherweight Bout: #15 Alex Caceres (19-13 1 NC, 145 lbs.) vs. Julian Erosa (28-9, 145.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Erosa is three inches taller with an inch of reach advantage. Southpaw for Caceres and he comes out kicking. Erosa lands an inside leg kick. More inside leg kicks go back and forth, then they trade rights. Caceres misses a blitz attack. Erosa lands another inside leg kick. Leg kick from Erosa then Caceres avoids a clinch attempt. Caceres lands a side kick. Bit of a right from Erosa. Erosa lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a left from Caceres. Caceres starts swinging wilder punches that are partially successful. Erosa lands a body kick then a right hand. Another body kick then a right hand from Erosa. Caceres misses a left hand then lands a head kick to floor Erosa and he jumps on top to pound things out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alex Caceres via TKO, head kick, at 3:04 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Erosa for his work this evening. Mic time for Caceres, he feels good and says this is all a journey, and spouts a little pseudo philosophical stuff. He says he’s scared when fighting, but we have to have honor and hope for courage because if you’re honorable at least you’ll do the right thing. When talking us through the finish he puts over some old coaches for his balance and being a bit more comfortable on one leg.

A couple of things about this finish we need to note. First, the power hand punch followed by a same side kick is a seriously underused combination. Robert Whittaker is another fighter who uses it frequently if you want another example. Second, this is another example of why you do things “backwards” against a southpaw because against an orthodox opponent what Erosa is doing is correct but against a southpaw he’s actually slipping/circling into the power side with disastrous results.

Amir Albazi is on a four fight winning streak in addition to being 3-0 in the UFC which has seen him crack the rankings at flyweight, now he looks to extend that streak and take aim at ranked opposition next year. Alessandro Costa took this fight on short notice replacing Alex Perez, he’s on a seven fight winning streak though and could score the biggest win of his career if he takes out the ranked Albazi tonight. Albazi is the biggest favorite on the entire card at -425 while a Costa win would payout at +340.

Flyweight Bout: #8 Amir Albazi (15-1, 125.5 lbs.) vs. Alessandro Costa (12-2, 125.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Albazi is an inch taller with an inch of reach advantage. Some jabs and circling to start, Albazi is the one pressing forward. Costa with a calf kick. Albazi lands a leg kick. Nice jab from Albazi lands. Both men feint a bit. Costa lands a right hand, then a calf kick. Both men miss punches in close. Albazi grabs a clinch against the fence. Costa is able to spin free after avoiding a single leg attempt. Bit of a calf kick from Costa. Again both men miss punches. Albazi blocks a right hand. Costa lands a left to the body. Costa sprawls away from a double leg attempt. Albazi blocks a few punches. A few jabs go back and forth. Albazi lands a couple of jabs after avoiding a hook, then he lands a calf kick. Jabs go back and forth for a bit. A right to the body from Costa will be the last blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Albazi but a very sedate round that could go either way

ROUND TWO: Albazi is back to showing the jab as the round begins. Costa misses an uppercut. Front kick from Albazi then a calf kick. Right hand then a left to follow from Albazi drops Costa and he gets on top in the full guard. A few short elbows from Albazi land. Some body shots from Albazi but he’s not looking to pass or really going after the strikes on the ground. Albazi with a few body to head punches. Bit of an elbow from Albazi. Some punches from Albazi, he’s finally opening up a bit now. Albazi drops some punches to the body. Costa tries to invert to attack the leg but can’t get his legs around and just eats some hammer fists to close the round.

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

ROUND THREE: Costa lands a couple of body shots. Front kick from Albazi. Double leg from Albazi is well timed and he gets on top of Costa in full guard. Costa is able to kick Albazi off and regain his feet. Bit of a right from Albazi. A right uppercut from Albazi drops Costa and he gets on top to pound out the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Amir Albazi via KO, punches, at 2:13 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Albazi for his work this evening. Mic time for Albazi, he’s feeling good and expected this kind of fight. He feels his striking is coming along and while it’s not quite as smooth as everyone else the power is there. Some sucking up to the UFC brass follows, and he wants to fight the best flyweights in the world but they’re avoiding him and he wants a post fight bonus so he can fix or replace his broken car. When talking us through the finish he puts over his coaches for their work getting him ready. To close he puts over Morocco and Qatar for representing the Arab nation.

Here’s the finish. Albazi is good about mixing up his punches and Costa never sees this uppercut coming, he’s trying to slip a straight punch and winds up going right into the uppercut.

Arman Tsarukyan has gone 5-2 in the UFC and he’s coming off of just his second loss in the promotion when he dropped a very entertaining decision to Mateusz Gamrot back in June, now he’s trying to avoid his first ever losing streak as well as defend his top ten ranking. Damir Ismagulov is on an absurd 19 fight winning streak including being 5-0 in the UFC which has seen him crack the top rankings, now he’s trying to maintain that momentum and take out his first top ten opponent while looking for even bigger names in the coming year. The odds are with Tsarukyan at -190 while that +160 comeback on Ismagulov might be a real tempting value bet.

Lightweight Bout: #12 Damir Ismagulov (24-1, 156 lbs.) vs. #9 Arman Tsarukyan (18-3, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Ismagulov is three inches taller with an inch and a half of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Tsarukyan fires a head kick that’s blocked. They clash on low kicks. Ismagulov misses a left uppercut. Tsarukyan lands a calf kick. Ismagulov lands a jab. Some body jabs from Ismagulov as he circles. Tsarukyan hits a double leg against a leg kick, Ismagulov is sitting on the fence now. Ismagulov looks to wall walk, Tsarukyan gets the back as they stand though. Tsarukyan tries mat returns but Ismagulov is good about staying upright or quickly bouncing up. They wind up clinched chest to chest on the fence. Tsarukyan moves to the back, then they wind up chest to chest again. A few short punches from Tsarukyan land. Ismagulov fires a few punches of his own. Tsarukyan tries a takedown but Ismagulov smothers and counters into full mount, he lands a few punches but Tsarukyan is able to sweep and they fight up into another clinch. Ismagulov lands a few more short punches while avoiding takedowns. Ismagulov slips free and lands a one two. More jabs from Ismagulov then a left hook. Tsarukyan misses a spinning back kick. Ismagulov digs a left to the body, Tsarukyan responds with a left hook. Another jab from Ismagulov. Tsarukyan misses a spinning back fist, then misses a jumping kick to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Tsarukyan but a very close one

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Bit of a right from Ismagulov. Tsarukyan lands a body kick. Ismagulov has a high kick blocked. Tsarukyan misses a head kick but it was close. Ismagulov lands some jabs to the body and head. Left hook from Ismagulov. Tsarukyan catches a kick and gets a takedown, then gets the back as they stand. Mat return from Tsarukyan, but Ismagulov blocks the hooks from going in and he stands back up in the clinch. Tsarukyan hits a double leg, Ismagulov moves to his knees and Tsarukyan jumps on the back with both hooks in but he’s in danger of falling over the top and winds up pulling things back to the mat. Some choke attempts from Tsarukyan, Ismagulov is hand fighting well enough thus far though. Ismagulov breaks the hooks and spins free then lands a one two. A lot of pressure from Ismagulov, he lands an uppercut but Tsarukyan dives into a clinch and hits a double leg against the fence. Ismagulov looks to wall walk, he’s back up with Tsarukyan on his back. Tsarukyan can’t keep the clinch and Ismagulov cracks him with an elbow. Solid right from Ismagulov but Tsarukyan gets a clinch again. Ismagulov lands a right hand in the clinch. Some knees go back and forth. Bit of an elbow from Tsarukyan, Ismagulov lands an uppercut as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Tsarukyan but another close one, 20-18 Tsarukyan overall

ROUND THREE: Tsarukyan lands a leg kick to start the last round. Ismagulov lands an uppercut then a knee. Tsarukyan fires an inside leg kick that goes into the groin so we’ve got a time out. Replay confirms the low blow and we’re back to fighting after 30 seconds. Ismagulov gets back to jabbing and lands a leg kick. Tsarukyan has a head kick blocked. Tsarukyan tries a single leg, and gets a trip on the second effort then jumps to the back. Only one hook in for Tsarukyan and Ismagulov scrambles to his feet though still in the clinch. Elbows from Ismagulov as Tsarukyan looks for a single leg. The physical strength of Tsarukyan is troubling Ismagulov in the clinch, and Tsarukyan’s cardio is of course on point. Ismagulov is able to spin free and reset. Knee from Ismagulov then a right hand. Tsarukyan lands a right to the body. Body kick from Tsarukyan. Ismagulov misses a combination. Tsarukyan reaches for a single leg, he takes some elbows but he’s able to finish it with a trip. Ismagulov bases up, but Tsarukyan gets the back with one hook in. Both hooks in now for Tsarukyan. Choke attempt from Tsarukyan, Ismagulov defends though. Ismagulov moves to his knees, bases up and Tsarukyan pulls him back down to the mat as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Arman Tsarukyan via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

The fight was closer than those scores indicate, but Tsarukyan was the rightful winner. Mic time for Tsarukyan, he feels he showed more of himself this time and puts over his coaches for preparing him. He mentions Ismagulov’s impressive stats and winning streak, and says Ismagulov is tougher than several of the top five guys and no one wants to fight either of them, and he calls out the top five for his next fight before claiming he didn’t lose the Gamrot fight. No buddy, you lost that fight fair and square. Asked about his plans for the future he wants a rematch with Islam Makhachev as he’s given Makhachev the toughest time in the UFC (Adriano Martins would disagree), and then he thanks the UFC brass and begs for a post fight bonus.

Jared Cannonier is coming off of a failed bid for the middleweight title back in July, now he’s trying to end the year on a win and maintain his top position going into 2023. Sean Strickland is coming off of his first ever loss at middleweight when he was knocked out by current champion Alex Pereira, he’s trying to avoid his first losing streak and score arguably the biggest win of his career if he can take out Cannonier. This one is real close, -120 for Cannonier to an even +100 on Strickland.

Middleweight Bout: #3 Jared Cannonier (15-6, 185.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Sean Strickland (25-4, 186 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Strickland is two inches taller while Cannonier has an inch and a half of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going, Cannonier opens southpaw but will switch a fair bit. Some leg kicks go back and forth. Strickland starts working the jab early as he moves around. Cannonier has a few kicks blocked. Bit of a body shot from Cannonier. Strickland lands a few jabs then avoids a right hand. Some more jabs from Strickland as he circles. Cannonier misses a few punches. Bit of a front kick from Strickland. A few more jabs from Strickland. Cannonier has a leg kick caught then Strickland gets a takedown. Cannonier quickly scrambles up along the fence and Strickland moves to his back. A few rights from Strickland land, he’s doing a pretty good job of peppering in shots before they break apart. Calf kick from Cannonier. Strickland lands a jab and avoids the counter punches. More jabs from Strickland. Inside leg kick from Cannonier, then another one. One two from Strickland lands. Cannonier jabs the body as the last relevant blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Strickland but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Both men get back to jabbing. Cannonier misses a right hand. Strickland catches a kick again and lands a punch. Cannonier has a few punches blocked. Front kick from Strickland. Bit of a right from Strickland, and his jab is starting to land more reliably now. Strickland with some jabs, Cannonier tries a counter right. Stiff couple of jabs from Strickland. Cannonier lands a right to the body. Cannonier lands a calf kick. Jab from Strickland. Cannonier barely misses a right hand. Strickland lands a jab, but Cannonier counters with a calf kick. Bit of a right from Cannonier. Strickland lands a front kick. Some more jabs from Strickland as he moves. Cannonier falls short on a right hand. Front kick from Strickland, that might have bothered Cannonier and Strickland lands a combination to follow up. Cannonier resets and lands a right hand. Body jabs from Cannonier. A right hand from Cannonier closes the round.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the third round. Strickland gets back to jabbing. A left hook from Strickland lands. Cannonier lands a leg kick. Strickland with some jabs and a front kick. Stiff jab from Strickland. Cannonier lands a body kick. Strickland lands another series of jabs. Strickland avoids a few punches then lands a jab. Hard jab from Strickland. Cannonier jabs the body. Strickland checks a leg kick. Bit of a right from Cannonier, Strickland lands a counter. Cannonier lands another right hand. Strickland lands a jab. They trade lefts. Combination from Strickland mostly lands. Cannonier falls short on a combination. Strickland checks another calf kick, then blocks a right hand. More jabs from Strickland now. Cannonier lands a left to the body but misses a follow up right. A couple of body shots from Cannonier land. Front kick from Strickland. Strickland lands a left, Cannonier lands a counter hook to close the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Cannonier but again it’s very close, 29-28 Cannonier overall

ROUND FOUR: They touch gloves again. Strickland misses a few punches. More jabs from Strickland, he might be looking to up the volume this round. Right hand from Strickland lands. Strickland lands a jab. Cannonier misses a few punches. Front kick and jabs from Strickland. Strickland lands a left hook. More jabs from Strickland, then Cannonier lands a leg kick. Strickland checks a calf kick, that one sounded unpleasant. A few more jabs from Strickland. A right hand from Strickland seems to wobble Cannonier for a second. Strickland lands another jab. One two from Strickland lands. Cannonier is struggling to find the target now and he’s taking some punches. Inside leg kick from Cannonier lands. They trade some left hands. Jab then a body kick from Strickland, and another jab. Strickland avoids a right hand and lands a counter right. Strickland is opening up at this point and Cannonier is struggling offensively. A few more jabs from Strickland. Combination from Strickland. Cannonier lands a right hand. They get close and tie up, Strickland gets Cannonier on the fence then they break. Strickland lands a front kick. Cannonier lands a left hand, that was a solid connection. Strickland lands a left hook. A Strickland jab closes the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Strickland, 38-38 overall

ROUND FIVE: They touch gloves for the final round. Strickland lands a one two. Cannonier jabs the body. Counter combination from Strickland. Cannonier jabs the body again. A left from Cannonier lands, but Strickland lands a counter combination that sends Cannonier a few steps backwards. Strickland with some more jabs, then he avoids a left hook. Jab from Strickland. Cannonier lands a right hand, but Strickland lands a counter left hook. A combination from Strickland lands. Nice left from Strickland. Cannonier lands a one two. They split some jabs, Cannonier lands a right hand but Strickland fires back three punches. Bit of a combination from Strickland. Cannonier jabs the body. One two from Strickland. Both men miss one twos. Cannonier misses a spinning back fist. Strickland lands a right hand. Left hook from Strickland. Cannonier lands a body shot. Strickland lands a combination. They both miss rights. We get some pocket brawling to close the fight out with Strickland landing a right hand then has a left high kick mostly blocked.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Cannonier but again, who knows, 48-47 Cannonier overall but this one could go either way

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jared Cannonier via split decision (46-49, 49-46 x2)

Frankly I’m not surprised, that many close rounds means you can’t really complain about 4-1 either way. Cannonier on the mic, he felt he had it 3-2. He says Strickland has a good eye for distance and Strickland had a pretty good read on him most of the time. He knew the leg kicks were important to try and deal with the jab. Asked about the body work he knew Strickland leans a lot to defend his head but that does open up the body which then sets up the head. Asked about the future, he would like another title shot if possible but at this point he knows Whittaker is fighting Costa next year, and they might do a rematch between Pereira and Adesanya, so he’s mostly aiming at any fight that gets him to the title next if he doesn’t get a title shot right away.

Apparently no round was unanimous for either fighter across the score cards, that should tell you a bit about the fight.

Well on that note, the calendar year of 2022 ends for the UFC. We’ll unpack all of the fallout on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast, which will also be our final podcast of the year. The next UFC event is on January 14th, and I’ll be back here to cover it and I hope you’ll be here to read. Until then, Merry Christmas, happy holidays, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of your pop culture needs.

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