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411’s UFC 237 Report: Andrade Beats Namajunas

May 12, 2019 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC 237

MAIN CARD (ESPN+ pay-per-view, 10 p.m. ET)
(c) Rose Namajunas (114.5 lbs.) vs. #1 Jessica Andrade (114.5 lbs.) – for strawweight title
#10 Jared Cannonier (184.5 lbs.) vs. #14 Anderson Silva (185 lbs.)
#1 Jose Aldo (146 lbs.) vs. #4 Alexander Volkanovski (145.5 lbs.)
Thiago Alves (170.5 lbs.) vs. Laureano Staropoli (170.5 lbs.)
#11 Irene Aldana (135.5 lbs.) vs. #13 Bethe Correia (141 lbs.)*

PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN, 8 p.m. ET)
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (203.5 lbs.) vs. Ryan Spann (204 lbs.)
Kurt Holobaugh (154.5 lbs.) vs. Thiago Moises (155 lbs.)
Warlley Alves (170 lbs.) vs. Sergio Moraes (170 lbs.)
Clay Guida (153.5 lbs.) vs. B.J. Penn (155.5 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN+, 6:30 p.m. ET)
Luana Carolina (124.5 lbs.) vs. Priscila Cachoeira (125.5 lbs.)
Raoni Barcelos (135.5 lbs.) vs. Carlos Huachin (135.5 lbs.)
Viviane Araujo (131 lbs.) vs. #15 Talita Bernardo (134.5 lbs.)

* Correia missed weight and was fined 30 percent of her purse, but the bout will go on as scheduled.

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC 237, I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening. This card suffered some unfortunate setbacks over the last couple of days, a scheduled bout between Carlos Diego Ferreira and Francisco Trinaldo was called off due to medical issues on Ferreira’s part. Sadly that fight falling off means this card will not set the record for the card with the most fighters on it over the age of 40. There was also an awful weight cutting gaff on the part of Bethe Correira who missed by six pounds. This card has also had a fair bit of fight alterations, but at the moment the big three fights remain unaffected.

The main event is a really good one as strawweight champion Rose Namajunas tries for her second title defense, this time against Jessica Andrade who’s getting her second shot at the title. These two ask very interesting stylistic questions of each other and should make for a good fight. Also the legend Anderson Silva tries to avoid another losing streak and turn back a rising contender in Jared Cannonier. There’s also a great featherweight fight between former champion and all time great Jose Aldo as he tries to turn back his third rising contender in the form of streaking Alexander Volkanovski who’s looking to prove himself the undeniable top contender to the featherweight title. Beyond that there’s not a lot to jump off the page but a few that could surprise us in execution. There’s also another incredibly sad fight as BJ Penn battles Clay Guida. Why the UFC continues to book Penn, or why regulatory bodies continue to sanction his fighting, remains one of the great unanswered questions of our time.

UFC 237 comes to the world from Jeunesse Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. On commentary we have Jon Anik, UFC heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier, and Dominick Cruz with Megan Olivi doing the around arena reporting. There’s not an American with high level collegiate or international wrestling experience for Cormier to cheer lead for tonight so he might be tolerable. As for the rules we’re under the newer set of rules, so you need both palms or fists on the mat to be considered downed (or a knee of course), extending fingers towards your opponent is a foul regardless of contact being made, and the language around scoring is clearer and more encouraging of 10-8’s. There will also be the limited use of instant replay for fight ending sequences if desired though once replay is invoked the fight cannot be restarted.

Talita Bernardo has gone 1-2 in the UFC but she is coming off of her first win in the UFC and is trying to get her first UFC winning streak up and running. Viviane Araujo brings a three fight winning streak into her UFC debut, she’s stepping in on just a few days notice and is looking to make a good first impression to the UFC audience. Bernardo is your favorite at -300 to a +240 comeback on Araujo.

Women’s Bantamweight Bout: Viviane Araujo (6-1, 131 lbs.) vs. #15 Talita Bernardo (6-3, 134.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two have identical heights and reaches, though it’s worth noting that Araujo normally fights down at strawweight so I expect Bernardo to have some kind of generalized size advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Araujo coming forward early, both women probing defenses with jabs and leg kicks. Both women land few kicks then Araujo lands a right that stumbles Bernardo for a second. Bernardo lands a solid leg kick. Some stance switching from Araujo, who’s bouncing a lot and looking to move in and out rather than engage the larger woman in prolonged exchanges. Araujo lands a body kick and a bit of a right hook. Bernardo lands a counter right but she’s struggling a bit with the speed of Araujo so far. Front kick to the body from Araujo and she avoids a rush then lands a right. Bernardo lands a left to the body. Another body kick then a right from Araujo. Araujo lands a right. Bernardo is trying to get her hands going but she’s falling just a little bit short. Leg kick from Bernardo. Araujo lands a jab then a right hook. The in and out mobility of Araujo is freezing up Bernardo. Leg kick from Araujo lands. Bernardo lands a body kick but Araujo lands a leg kick and sweeps her down but chooses not to follow her down. Araujo avoids a few punches then lands a right. Araujo’s striking technique is much smoother, Bernardo tries a double leg but Araujo smothers that and winds up on top in half guard. Araujo slides and gets the back, then looks to lock up a choke as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Araujo

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Araujo is still moving well, she lands a leg kick. Bernardo misses a few punches. Bernardo lands a leg kick but eats a counter right. Araujo lands a hard leg kick. Another leg kick from Araujo, then a hard right that staggers Bernardo for a second. Body kick from Araujo, then she catches a kick and trips Bernardo but makes Bernardo stand back up. Another straight right from Araujo, this time Bernardo lands the counter right. Bernardo lands a looping left hook. Araujo lands a right to counter a leg kick. They clash on kicks and then Araujo lands a left hook. Double leg from Bernardo, Araujo defends as they hit the fence, Bernardo gets a body lock but can’t keep it and Araujo is able to disengage. Bernardo lands a body kick but both women are slowing down a bit. Araujo lands a jab then a leg kick. Barnardo comes forward with hooks, Araujo double legs her in response and winds up in her guard. Full guard for Bernardo, and they trade elbows. A few punches land for Araujo then she stands and makes Bernardo get back up. Another leg kick from Araujo, then Bernardo lands a couple of hooks in close as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Araujo but a closer round, 20-18 Araujo overall

ROUND THREE: Bernardo avoids a one two, Araujo then lands a front kick to the body. Bernardo pushes forward and swings, she lands a couple of punches but Araujo circles free and lands a couple of rights. Another couple of rights from Araujo, then another one that floors Bernardo and this one is over.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Viviane Araujo via KO, punch, at :48 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Ms. Araujo for her work this evening. Mic time for Araujo and the UFC’s translator, she says she’s been ready for the UFC’s call all year and has been waiting for it. She puts over the UFC’s production and getting over the possible jitters, then says she plans on returning to strawweight and tells that division to be careful because she’s coming.

Here’s the finish. The fakes and feints from Araujo keep locking up Bernardo, then Bernardo just kind of paws with a jab as her right hand draws way back to swing but the shorter power right from Araujo lands first and ends her night.

Raoni Barcelos has a six fight winning streak that includes being 2-0 in the UFC, he’s looking to extend that and start moving up in competition. Carlos Huachin Quiroz is stepping in on relatively short notice to replace Said Nurmagomedov but he’s undefeated in his last seven bouts and is looking to announce himself on the UFC stage with a win here. Barcelos is a massive -1,100 favorite to a +700 comeback on Huachin that has to tempt the degenerate gamblers out there.

Bantamweight Bout: Raoni Barcelos (13-1, 135.5 lbs.) vs. Carlos Huachin (10-3-2, 135.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Barcelos is three inches taller but the have the same reach, Huachin is also a full ten years younger. They touch gloves, Huachin fighting southpaw. Barcelos is circling, he’s got a wider stance than I expected as he moves Huachin towards the fence. Both men doing a lot of feeling out so far, though things are starting to heat up. Huachin misses a couple of punches but he might have seen something he likes in the motion of Barcelos. Bit of a left from Huachin lands. Barcelos is trying to get the jab going, then they trade power hand punches. Leg kick from Barcelos lands. Barcelos lands a body kick. Huachin misses a left but he’s acquitting himself well. Both men miss in close, then a bit of a right from Barcelos. Barcelos lands a right. Huachin lands a left, and eats a knee to the body while doing so. Huachin avoids a flurry in close and lands a right. Barcelos lands a leg kick then a body kick. Body kick from Huachin, and that will close out the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Barcelos but a really close round

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round, and Barcelos is back to kicking at the leg. Barcelos pushes close and lands a right then they trade kicks. Barcloes tries a double leg, Huachin is able to stop the motion and shuck him to one side. A few jabs sneak through for Barcelos then a left hook that drops Huachin. Huachin has guard on the ground but Barcelos is looking to swarm him. Barcelos lands some lefts to punch through an armbar attempt, then as Huachin moves to his seat against the fence Barcelos moves to one hip ready to spin to the back. Barcelos lands rights, moves to full mount then gets the back but loses one hook and he has to scramble to top position. Huachin sits up again, Barcelos looks to lock up a power guillotine but he mostly uses it to push Huachin over to his back. Barcelos moves to full mount again, then the back but winds up in north-south as Huachin defended a choke attempt. This isn’t even close on the ground, Barcelos to full mount again and he’s flattening out Huachin. Barcelos postures up and lands a few elbows and looks to set up an arm triangle choke but he can’t get it and Huachin gets half guard. A few more elbows from Barcelos, now a series of left elbows will prompt the stoppage.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Raoni Barcelos via TKO, elbows, at 4:49 of Round 2

Not the best stoppage in the world but I can live with it. Barcelos on the mic now, he plays with the crowd and says this wasn’t his best performance given the change of opponents but is glad to have won. He mentions switching to his grappling in the second and wishes a Happy Mothers Day to all the moms out there. Asked about who or what is next for him he says he’ll be ready for whoever the UFC puts in front of him.

Here’s the finish, so you can decide for yourselves if you like the stoppage or not. As mentioned above, I can live with it.

Luana Carolina makes her UFC debut on the back of a win on Dana’s Contender Series, she’s looking to extend an overall six fight winning streak and showcase her skills to the larger UFC audience. Priscila Cachoeira has gone 0-2 in the UFC, she took this fight on a little less than a month’s notice and badly needs to get her first UFC win. The odds are with Carolina at -165 to a +145 comeback on Cachoeira.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: Luana Carolina (6-1, 124.5 lbs.) vs. Priscila Cachoeira (8-2, 125.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Cachoeira is an inch taller but Carolina has four inches of reach on her. Southpaw for Carolina, she lands a knee as Cachoeira was leaning throwing a punch. Cachoeira lands a right and they clinch up, a few knees from Carolina to the body before they break. Cachoeira is coming forward again looking to force the action. Bit of a jab from Carolina and they trade in close then Carolina circles to reset. Neither woman is doing much head movement. A few kicks land for Carolina and she avoids a right. The punches from Cachoeira are really telegraphed and loopy. Carolina is starting to grab quick Thai clinches when they get close and throwing knees before they break. Bit of an elbow from Carolina in close. They trade inside leg kicks then Carolina avoids a few punches. A few body kicks from Carolina land. We get some brawling now, Carolina is cut around the right eye and she’s looking for a front head lock then misses a right as they break. Carolina lands a head kick, Cachoeira just eats it and keeps coming forward. Technique is mostly out the window at this point and every time they get close they’re looking to brawl. Cachoeira lands a right and then eats a knee in close. They clinch again, Carolina lands a few knees as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Carolina

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round, and Carolina lands a right. Cachoeira is still coming forward, partially blocks a head kick. Bit of a jab from Carolina then a knee as Cachoeira was ducking down, might have been more of a kick. Carolina lands a few punches then takes a clubbing left on her guard. Orthodox now for Carolina, she jabs Cachoeira a few times then lands an elbow as they clinch. Knees from Carolina land then a right as they break. Cachoeira has no idea how to cage cut, she’s just following and getting annoyed that her opponent knows how to move. Carolina lands a left head kick that drops Cachoeira, she follows her down and in the scramble looks to lock up a reverse triangle, switches to a triangle armbar then loses that and moves to top position. Side control for Carolina, Cachoeira bucks and bridges then Carolina throws an illegal knee so we’ve got time. I’m not sure how hard that was thrown or if it landed, the replay shows it did in fact land. The ref isn’t taking a point though, and Cachoeira is good to continue so we’re back to fighting. Carolina tries another high kick that mostly lands then they clinch and there’s a bevy of knees from Carolina. They break, and Carolina lands a few punches then a bit of a high kick. Cachoeira is in full on zombie mode. They clinch, Carolina grabs a standing guillotine and jumps guard for it, she can’t really finish it but she does push Cachoeira over and get on top in full mount. Punches and elbows from Carolina but she’s getting too high again, she’s after the reverse triangle again and lands hammer fists but Cachoeira is able to get free and they stand. Elbows from Carolina, Cachoeira swings back but mostly misses.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Carolina, 20-17 Carolina overall

ROUND THREE: Carolina is circling again, lands a front kick to the body then they both land in close. Body kick from Carolina, then a high kick that mostly lands. Spinning back fist from Carolina is horribly telegraphed but still lands. Carolina lands a body kick. Bit of a loopy left lands for Cachoeira in close. Carolina lands a left after taking a body shot. Head kick then a spinning back fist from Carolina, then Cachoeira lands a right in close. Things are breaking down even further now, technique going away. Jabs from Carolina and she avoids one of the uglier overhands you’ll see. Carolina lands a left, and avoids a hook. Another high kick from Carolina is mostly successful, then she gets Cachoeira to duck into a knee. Elbow from Carolina, and they clinch then trade knees. Cachoeira lands a bit of a left hook. Carolina lands a body kick, a few more exchanges in close then Carolina circles away for the final couple of seconds.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Luana Carolina via unanimous decision (29-27, 30-26 x2)

I have no idea which round Cachoeira won, Clucky might be in Rio. Mic time for Carolina, she’s happy to have won and thanks her coaches and team for all of the work they put into her.

That will do it for ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass, on to ESPN for the rest of the prelims.

BJ Penn is an absolute legend of the sport, but he hasn’t won a fight since beating Matt Hughes in 2010 and is on a six fight losing streak. Penn is trying to find one more moment of glory as his career is clearly winding down. Clay Guida is another veteran, he’s 2-1 since returning to lightweight but is coming off of a loss to Charles Oliveira, he’s trying to avoid another losing streak and collect the biggest name win he could realistically get at this point. The odds are with Guida at -700 to a +500 comeback for Penn.

Lightweight Bout: Clay Guida (34-18, 153.5 lbs.) vs. B.J. Penn (16-13-2, 155.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Penn is two inches taller but the have identical reaches. Both men probing with jabs, Guida lands a couple of short hooks. Penn is working his lead hand, he misses a looping hook. Guida misses more hooks then lands a left to the body. Bit of a left from Penn, Guida lands a left of his own. Guida lands a bit of a high kick. Both men land jabs. Guida has landed a couple of leg kicks, it’s worth keeping an eye on given Penn’s history with leg kicks. Penn is avoiding most of Guida’s punches but the leg kicks are getting through. Bit of a right from Guida in close but Guida’s hooks are predictable and Penn is avoiding most of them. Penn lands a left hook. Another leg kick from Guida, Penn lands a jab. Guida lands a left hook. Penn lands a short right in close. Bit of a left from Guida, Penn lands a right uppercut. Guida avoids a right as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Penn but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Both men working the lead hand again, Penn is coming forward and they’re both landing jabs. Guida lands a leg kick. Bit of a left hook from Guida lands, his first punch is landing decently but he’s missing almost all of the follow ups. Penn leans and lands a left hook. Guida lands a body kick. Another leg kick from Guida lands, they’re adding up. Penn lands a leg kick of his own. Penn lands a right to the body. Guida walks into a jab and misses a hook. Penn sneaks in an uppercut, Guida lands a leg kick. Penn’s defense is focused on the shoulder roll, if Guida gets a read on that he can capitalize on it. Bit of a high kick from Guida. Guida pushes into a clinch and they hit the fence. Guida looks for a single leg, can’t get it so he lands a couple of punches then ducks back into the clinch. Elbow from Guida, then a short left hook. Body shots from Guida and Penn slips free. Another leg kick from Guida, Penn is slowing at this point. They split jabs and Guida kicks the leg again. Penn is swelling under the right eye, Guida wobbles him with a high kick and they clinch up. Guida’s bleeding from somewhere. Guida gets a takedown against the fence and will end the round on top.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Guida, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Both men jabbing again as the round starts. Penn lands a left hook but Guida lands a counter combination then a leg kick. Penn is on the fence and Guida is looking to swarm on him. They clinch in open space and Guida lands an uppercut as they break. Guida lands a leg kick, and another one as he pushes into the fence. Elbow from Guida, Penn looks done. Guida keeps things close along the fence and digs the body then lands a couple of elbows. Short punches from Guida, then he looks for a takedown. Penn is able to get things chest to chest, Guida lands a knee to the body as they break. Guida lands a right and Penn falls over, that was flush but Penn was also off balance, and Penn is back up but still clinched on the fence. Body shots from Guida and they break. Guida lands a couple of punches and clinches back up. Penn is done in terms of his cardio. Guida lands some short punches in close. Penn lands a couple of uppercuts, but Guida is still on him against the fence. Penn is able to spin free and lands a right, he might have been recovering for those minutes in preparation for a final sprint. Guida circles, lands a loopy right. Penn lands a bit of a left, Guida has a high kick blocked. Both men circle as the clock runs down.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Clay Guida via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-28 x2)

I suppose there’s a 10-8 argument for Guida in the second. Mic time for Guida, he says he expected this fight from Penn and gets the crowd to chant for BJ. Guida mentions that Penn beat Guida’s head coach Joey Gilbert in Penn’s UFC debut and that he had to get this one for his coach. He says he just wanted to get takedowns, and notes he never felt all that close to getting a finish, then thanks his coaches for all of their work, and wishes well to a lot of his friends who just had their first kids and a does the Happy Mothers Day routine.

In your sad stat related to that prior fight, BJ Penn now has sole possession of the record for longest UFC losing streak at 7.

Warlley Alves just had a two fight winning streak snapped when James Krause finished him, he’s trying to avoid his second UFC losing streak and regain some of the hype he had as a prospect five years ago. Sergio Moraes has gone 2-2 in his last four fights, he’s coming off of a loss to Rocco Martin and is trying to avoid his first ever losing streak. The odds are with Alves at -140 to a +120 comeback on Moraes.

Welterweight Bout: Warlley Alves (12-3, 170 lbs.) vs. Sergio Moraes (14-4-1, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Moraes is an inch taller while they have identical reaches. They touch gloves to get us going. Alves misses a leg kick, both men are feinting with the hands and seem like they’re setting up kicks more than setting up punches. Alves lands a leg kick. Moraes blocks a high kick. Another leg kick from Alves, Moraes needs to get something going. Moraes checks a leg kick. Alves has a couple of hooks blocked but lands a leg kick. Moraes lands an overhand right and Alves is backing up. Alves lands an uppercut then a couple of leg kicks. Moraes with a bit of a front kick up the middle then a lunging left hook. A couple of body kicks land for Alves, one right and the other left. Moraes avoids a leg kick but he’s really reacting to that motion even if it’s not a committed kick from Alves. Moraes tries to get close and he takes a finger to the eyes so we’ve got time. He walks it off quickly and we’re back to fighting. Moraes lands a calf kick. Alves misses a flurry. They stare away the final few seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Alves

ROUND TWO: Alves comes out with a combination that’s mostly blocked. Leg kick lands for Alves. More leg kicks from Alves and he avoids some hooks from Moraes. Another leg kick from Alves, that lead leg is clearly compromised. Moraes is coming forward, but takes another leg kick and blocks a high kick. Alves lands another leg kick and a jab, that lead leg looks nasty, it’s swelling and discolored. Alves fires off a few jabs to keep Moraes off balance. Moraes lands a bit of a looping left. Alves still throwing the jab and lands a leg kick. Body kick from Alves lands. Alves avoids a few punches then lands a right to the body. Alves lands another leg kick. They trade rights, Alves misses a high kick, and the round comes to a close.

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

ROUND THREE: Alves lands a left body kick, Moraes is coming forward looking to pressure him. Moraes lands a left hook, he’s trying to instigate a brawl and Alves lands a leg kick then gets distance to reset. Alves lands a left to the body then a leg kick. Inside leg kick from Alves then a right to the body. Moraes is game but he’s turning into a punching bag. Alves lands a leg kick that lands to the inside of the rear leg when Moraes tries to check. Alves punches in close and lands a right hook. Another leg kick from Alves then a jab. Alves lands a leg kick, Moraes off balances but doesn’t fall over. Another left to the body from Alves. Alves gets a bit of a spinning back kick then a leg kick. That leg of Moraes is nasty to look at. Alves lands a leg kick along the fence. Straight right from Alves lands, Moraes is just trying to see the end of the round but Alves fires a jumping knee in close then absolutely ENDS Moraes with an uppercut.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Warlley Alves via KO, punch, at 4:13 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Alves for his work this evening. Also seriously, the left leg of Moraes looks about twice the size of his right from all that swelling. Mic time for Alves, who does his own translation work for a bit and says he’s been training hard for this fight and puts over his coaches.

In case you missed it, here’s the finish. Nasty stuff from Alves, he sees Moraes adjust his defense and blasts him with an uppercut.

Thiago Moises lost his UFC debut when he was out grappled by Beneil Dariush, now he’s trying to put that setback behind him and get that all important first UFC win under his belt. Kurt Holobaugh has gone 0-2 in the UFC and is also after that first UFC win. The odds are even at a -110 pick ’em.

Lightweight Bout: Kurt Holobaugh (17-6 1 NC, 154.5 lbs.) vs. Thiago Moises (11-3, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Holobaugh is two inches taller while Moises has half an inch of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going, then Moises lands a calf kick. Another calf kick from Moises, Holobaugh is missing his punches while trying to close distance but does get the clinch on the cage. Holobaugh is looking for a single leg, Moises uses a guillotine threat to keep things standing then they break. Another leg kick from Moises. Moises lands a couple of rights, Holobaugh lands a right of his own and they clinch up again. Moises lands an elbow on the break. Moises gets a single leg into a double leg and lands in half guard. Holobaugh is looking for a kimura, Moises gets his arm free and flattens him out. Elbows from Moises land. Moises keeps sneaking through elbows while threatening to pass the half guard. Holobaugh gets to double butterfly guard, then regular full guard. Moises postures up and lands a few punches. Pretty consistent offense from Moises here as Holobaugh tries to get his guard in play. The round will come to an end in that position.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Moises

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round, then trade leg kicks. Moises lands a right then a front kick to the face, but Holobaugh is still upright. Holobaugh pushes into a clinch and gets Moises to the cage. They jockey for position, then decide nothing’s coming of it and break. Moises hits a double leg into the guard of Holobaugh. Holobaugh is trying to get his guard to work, Moises looks to pass. Holobaugh moves to the fence and tries to sit up, Moises keeps him down and spins him away from the cage. Moises looks for a front headlock, Holobaugh is up but Moises lands knees while holding that front headlock. They break and Moises avoids some punches. Holobaugh avoids a wheel kick and tries a double leg that hits the fence. Moises defends and spins him into the fence, now Holobaugh spins him with a front headlock and lands to the body in combination as they break. Moises lands an elbow in close, Holobaugh works the body again and clinches up. Knees from Holobaugh land and they break, Moises can’t finish a double leg and they trade elbows. Leg kick from Moises, Holobaugh just bulls forward and lands to the body while clinching again. Moises lands a right, we get some exchanges in close as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Moises looking to get his kicking game back in gear, he lands a right in close. Spinning back kick to the body from Moises then they trade rights. Another leg kick from Moises drops Holobaugh, Moises gets on top of him in half guard. Moises is landing to the body while keeping Holobaugh flat on his back and looking to pass. Holobaugh is back up, nearly gives up his back but keeps Moises off and they reset. Moises is after a single leg, switches to a double leg and he’s on top again in the guard of Holobaugh. Elbow from Moises lands. Holobaugh is back up, Moises grabs a standing rear naked choke but can’t get the hooks in and that lets Holobaugh drop to his seat and break the grip then is after a single leg. Moises lands elbows to the ear from his seat, Holobaugh is able to mount the ankles as Moises sits against the fence. Moises wall walks, they then break and Moises gets a single leg into a high crotch takedown. Half guard for Moises, he’s working the elbows again. Holobaugh just defends for the final few seconds as Moises swarms him.

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

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

I suppose there’s a 10-8 argument in there in the third for Moises. No interview for Moises as we’re running short on time.

Antonio Rogerio Nogueira is a legend of the sport but his career is clearly winding down, he’s 2-3 in his last five fights and while he’s coming off of a win that fight ended a near two year long layoff. Nogueira is trying for another win in his home country as his career moves towards its end. Ryan Spann has a five fight winning streak that includes a successful UFC debut, now he’s trying to take out an MMA legend and score the biggest win of his career. Spann is a slight -135 favorite while a Nogueira win would pay out at +115.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Antonio Rogerio Nogueira (23-8, 203.5 lbs.) vs. Ryan Spann (15-5, 204 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Spann is three inches taller and has four inches of reach on Nogueira. Spann is also a full fifteen years younger. Southpaw for Nogueira, and they touch gloves to get us going. Spann lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a right from Nogueira lands to counter a right. They get close and Nogueira mostly pulls guard, Spann moves to side control then full mount. Spann is after an arm triangle choke but Nogueira gets half guard on the dangerous side. Nogueira eats an elbow, tries to spin under but Spann gets free and they’re back upright. Bit of a left from Nogueira then he avoids a takedown. Another left from Nogueira lands, Spann fires back though and he drops Nogueira with a left uppercut then puts him out cold on the ground with follow up punches.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ryan Spann via KO, punches, at 2:07 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Spann for his work this evening. They would also like to apologize for being so late, apparently they had issues claiming their luggage. Mic time for Spann, he gives glory to God then puts over Nogueira as a legend. He talks us through the finish, then says he doesn’t care who he fights next and thanks Rio, then notes he wants to be in the UFC video game.

Here’s the finish, Spann lands a right that forces Nogueira’s head off the center line then he takes a slight angle to his own left and lands the uppercut under the arm of Nogueira that spells the end of the fight.

That will do it for prelims, on to ESPN+ PPV for the main card.

Irene Aldana has gone 2-2 in the UFC but is on a two fight winning streak, she’s trying to prove she’s found her footing in the UFC and is ready to make a move up the ranks at bantamweight. Bethe Correira missed weight badly for this fight, she’s also just 1-3-1 in her last five fights and hasn’t been seen since Holly Holm knocked her out in June of 2017. Correira is trying to win here as a long layoff, plus disastrous weigh in attempt could easily end her run in the UFC if she adds another loss on top of them. Correira is a hefty +235 underdog while Aldana is a -425 favorite.

Women’s Bantamweight Bout: #11 Irene Aldana (9-4, 135.5 lbs.) vs. #13 Bethe Correia (10-3-1, 141 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Aldana is four inches taller and has four and a half inches of reach on Correia. They touch gloves to get us going. Aldana is circling early, Correia standing flat in the middle of the cage. Aldana is trying to get her jab going, Correia still very flat on her feet. More jabs from Aldana and she avoids a right. Correia falls short with some hooks then eats a right. Aldana lands a one two while backing up, and Correia’s left eye is starting to swell a bit. Really straight forward jabs and one two combinations from Aldana are landing and she’s keeping Correia at distance and uncomfortable. Correia misses some left hooks, Aldana lands a few more jabs and right crosses. Bit of a leg kick from Correia. Aldana lands a few rights while circling away from Correia. Leg kicks from Aldana and she blocks a left hook. Right uppercut from Aldana lands. More one twos from Aldana. Short couple of rights from Aldana in close and Correia is backing up as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Aldana, nearly 10-8 numerically

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Correia lands a leg kick. Aldana lands a couple of lefts, Correia lands a leg kick. They trade rights in close. Correia is coming forward trying to engage, Aldana circles and kicks her in the leg. Left hook from Aldana lands. Correia lands another leg kick then they trade rights. Bit of a right from Aldana then Correia misses a right. They get close and trade rights again. Again they trade rights, and Correia pretty clearly has more power on her strikes. They trade and Correia tries to clinch but Aldana slips free and they trade rights. Correia wobbles Aldana with a right and they clinch up on the fence. They spin a few times and Aldana lands a knee as they break. Another right lands for Correia then a leg kick. Correia fails on a double leg, they trade knees then separate. Aldana lands a pretty wicked four punch combination just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Correia, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Correia lands a leg kick and eats a counter right. Aldana lands a body kick but Correia lands a couple of counters. Stiff right from Aldana wobbles Correia and she’s backing up. Another right from Aldana lands. Correia gets a couple of punches through, neither woman is moving her head much. Correia is coming forward now, lands a left hook and is trying to get a brawl. Aldana lands a left then eats a left. Right from Aldana lands. Aldana lands a left hook after taking a leg kick. Correia misses a left, tries a takdown but Aldana stuffs it and moves to her back, looks for an armbar and gets Correia to tap with it.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Irene Aldana via Submission, armbar, at 3:24 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Ms. Aldana for her work this evening, and knows nothing about any report that might have been filed at the airport regarding the First Round Finish Club. Aldana gets an interview, she says she was nervous about being in Brazil but thanks them for being awesome, wishes Happy Mothers Day to everyone then switches to Spanish for a bit. Credit to her for her English, it’s pretty good. She mentions her previous fight in Brazil was really hard and is glad she could come back and overcome that. She talks us through the finish and wants to look better in her next fight.

Here’s the flurry from Aldana at the end of the second to tide you over while I look for something on the finish.

It’s not exactly textbook, but Aldana adjusts her grip and her leg position as Correia tries to dump her over the top and is able to drive her hips through the elbow of Correia and force the tap.

They confirm Ferguson vs. Cerrone for UFC 238, which is headlined by a double title fight of Cejudo vs. Moraes for the vacant bantamweight title and Valentina Shevchenko’s first title defense against Jessica Eye. That fight is basically guaranteed violence.

Thiago Alves just broke a two fight losing streak with a split decision win, now he’s looking for his first UFC winning streak since 2015. Laureano Staropoli has a six fight winning streak that includes a successful UFC debut, he’s trying to take out a veteran and score the biggest win of his career. Alves is a slight -115 favorite to -105 for Staropoli.

Welterweight Bout: Thiago Alves (23-13, 170.5 lbs.) vs. Laureano Staropoli (8-1, 170.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Staropoli is four inches taller but has just an inch and a half of reach on Alves. They touch gloves to get us going. Both men feinting a bit, Staropoli is doing that via stance switching more than anything else. Bit of a body kick from Staropoli, then another one. Alves is blocking most of the kicks but his arms are taking some hard kicks. Leg kick from Staropoli lands. Alves avoids a few kicks, then walks into a right. Elbow and uppercut from Staropoli, Alves is a little paralyzed defensively. Alves is bleeding from the hair line but it’s unlikely to be an issue. Alves lands a bit of a body kick, Staropoli lands a leg kick. Staropoli misses a few kicks then tries a one two that’s partially successful. Bit of a right from Staropoli, Alves lands a calf kick. Staropoli lands a body kick then has a jumping knee blocked. Body kicks are traded. Alves lands a counter right just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Staropoli

ROUND TWO: Alves looks more lively this round, and they trade some kicks. Staropoli misses some elbows after taking a body kick. Alves misses a right but he seems more comfortable this round. Staropoli off balances Alves with a right and gets the back standing with a rear waist lock. Some rights from Staropoli as Alves is fighting to wall walk, he’s back up and blocks a spinning elbow as they break. Alves is coming forward pressing the action, he lands a body kick. Left hooks are traded then Alves lands a leg kick. Staropoli lands a jab. Right uppercut then a left hook from Staropoli lands. Alves lands a leg kick and they get close then trade before resetting. Staropoli lands a combination to the body. Staropoli goes to the body again. Alves lands a right, and that will be the last blow of the round.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Alves pressuring forward early and we’ve got some pocket exchanges. Alves has had enough of the punches and hits a double leg against the fence. Staropoli back up and separates without taking damage. Alves lands a leg kick. Staropoli digs a left to the body. Another leg kick from Alves but those kicks aren’t having tremendous impact. Staropoli digs the body again and tries a jumping knee. Another leg kick from Alves but Staropoli lands a couple of counters. Staropoli lands a right, Alves pushes into a clinch on the fence. Alves slips around to the back, then Staropoli spins chest to chest and gets Alves on the fence. They break without incident. Staropoli to the body again with his left hand. Staropoli lands a body kick. Alves blocks a spinning back fist. Alves is trying the inside leg kick now but it might be too late to really get much off of that technique. Staropoli lands a long right. Bit of an uppercut from Alves, Staropoli lands a right. Alves with a leg kick, Staropoli lands a counter left hook. Body kick from Alves lands. Alves lands a knee in close off of a duck from Staropoli, he’s trying to walk him down now but Staropoli is moving well. They trade lefts, Alves lands a leg kick and they trade some more in close. Alves lands one final right hook as the clock runs down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Alves, 29-28 Staropoli overall

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

Not sure on 30-27 as Alves had the bigger moments in the 3rd but not the worst idea. Mic time for Staropoli, he says he knew the fight would be tough and puts over Alves, then sucks up to the crowd a bit by noting he trains in Brazil now. He laments the lack of a finish but wants to fight on the upcoming Uruguay card to continue representing Latin America.

Jose Aldo is considered the greatest featherweight ever but he’s acknowledged his career is coming to a close. Aldo has won his last two fights via stoppage and now he’s trying to take out another rising contender. Alexander Volkanovski has an absurd sixteen fight winning streak that includes six wins in the UFC and he’s coming off of a stoppage win over Chad Mendes, if Volkanovski can best the great Aldo here he’s without a doubt the number one contender for the featherweight championship. Aldo is the -155 favorite against +135 for Volkanovski.

Featherweight Bout: #1 Jose Aldo (28-4, 146 lbs.) vs. #4 Alexander Volkanovski (19-1, 145.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Aldo is an inch taller while Volkanovski has an inch and a half of reach on him. They touch gloves to get things going. Volkanovski feinting while circling. Aldo lands a jab. Volkanovski working his lead leg kicks, nothing really landing yet but he’s getting a read on Aldo. Aldo misses a leg kick. Volkanovski tries a leg kick that’s partly checked. Aldo avoids a high kick, he’s not biting on the feints of Volkanovski yet. Volkanovski lands a jab. Aldo is the one pressing forward, Volkanovski lands a leg kick then eats a jab. Volkanovski lands an inside leg kick, Aldo lands a left to the body. Aldo avoids a few kicks then dodges a right. Bit of a left from Aldo. Volkanovski lands a bit of a left. Spinning back fist from Volkanovski is partially successful. Volkanovski lands a right. Aldo is backing up, Volkanovski lands a jab and pushes into a clinch. Some knees to the body and leg from Volkanovski, then Aldo pushes him off. Aldo misses a right. Bit of a body kick from Volkanovski, then they trade rights. Volkanovski lands a left as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Volkanovski

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Volkanovski is moving well, circling and looking for angles. Inside leg kicks and left body kicks from Volkanovski, he’s just keeping busy while Aldo looks for his opportunity to counter. Bit of a one two from Volkanovski. Aldo lands a glancing left, Volkanovski lands a left body kick. Aldo misses a few punches. Volkanovski lands another left body kick, Aldo lands a jab. Aldo avoids a few kicks and lands a knee off of a brief clinch. Volkanovski lands a right after having a kick checked. Volkanovski lands a bit of a right but Aldo is rolling with these. Bit of a left from Volkanovski lands as Aldo was leaning back. Aldo is starting to bite on the feints, they clash and we get time for a second as there was some kind of eye poke. The doctor is in to check on Aldo’s eye, he’s good to continue and the ref warns Volkanovski that if he pokes him again it’ll be a point. Volkanovski apologizes on the restart and we’re back to fighting. Aldo lands a leg kick. Volkanovski lands a right then a left hook, Aldo lands a right and Volkanovski clinches up and drives Aldo into the fence. Knees from Volkanovski to the thigh and body, he’s aiming those straight into the thigh of Aldo. Aldo slips around to the back standing, Volkanovski turns into him quickly and drives him back into the cage. More knees from Volkanovski. They break without incident and then Volkanovski lands a bit of a left. Jabs from Volkanovski and they both miss hooks. Inside leg kick from Volkanovski will be the last real blow of the round.

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

ROUND THREE: They clinch up quickly then break without incident. Volkanovski lands a bit of a right then jabs the body. Aldo lands a jab. They trade in close, Volkanovski lands a couple of rights. They clinch again, Volkanovski drives Aldo into the fence and is looking for an outside reap. Knees from Volkanovski to the body and thigh. Aldo is able to spin free and separate. Bit of a left from Volkanovski then a left body kick. Aldo avoids a few punches and then lands a knee to the body in close. Another clinch, Aldo lands a knee as they break. They split jabs then Volkanovski lands a right and a left. Volkanovski has a serious output going, he’s just out working Aldo. Volkanovski pushes into another clinch and gets Aldo to the fence. Knees from Volkanovski to the thigh of Aldo and a few lefts to the head. Volkanovski lands a couple of punches on a brief break then clinches back up. More knees from Volkanovski, Aldo seems either fatigued or a little surprised about what he’s supposed to be doing here in the clinch. The clock will run down in that place.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Alexander Volkanovski via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Almost impossible to over state that win for Volkanovski, that’s Aldo’s first loss in a three round fight in his entire WEC/UFC career. Mic time for Volkanovski, he says he had to fight that fight given it was Aldo, he apologizes to the fans for the fight not being what they wanted and thanks Aldo for being a legend. He says he should be fighting for the belt next and would love to fight on the upcoming Australia card. He thanks his best friend who changed his wedding date so he could be here and he’s happy to have delivered a win even if he couldn’t get a finish.

Jared Cannonier just broke a two fight losing streak when he dropped to middleweight and stopped David Branch in less than six minutes, now he’s got a chance to take out one of the best to ever fight in the sport. Anderson Silva may be the greatest of all time but he’s got just one official win in his last seven fights and even that was a dubious decision, Silva is trying to prove he’s still got what it takes to compete with the up and coming generation of fighters. The odds are with Cannonier at -125 to +105 for Silva.

Middleweight Bout: #10 Jared Cannonier (11-4, 184.5 lbs.) vs. #14 Anderson Silva (34-9 1 NC, 185 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Silva is three inches taller but Cannonier has half an inch of reach advantage. Southpaw for Silva, Cannonier is coming forward and lands a leg kick. Inside leg kick from Cannonier. Silva lands a body kick. Cannonier is backing Silva towards the fence, Silva tries a jumping switch kick but that’s mostly blocked. Bit of a right from Cannonier, then a few more to follow up and they clinch up. Silva lands an elbow and Cannonier lands a couple of punches on the break. Cannonier avoids a right hook. Some more body shots from Cannonier, Silva is starting to get his jab going and is backing Cannonier up. Cannonier lands an inside leg kick and Silva collapses then waves off the fight and the ref is in to stop it. Sucks but Silva’s knee seems to have given out.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Jared Cannonier via TKO, knee injury, at 4:47 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Cannonier for his work this evening. Sucks to see that in any fight, but injuries do happen and hopefully it’s not too serious. Cannonier and Silva share a moment before Cannonier gets his interview, as the crowd showers him with boos. He just soaks in the boos for a few moments, then thanks Silva for the fight as the chance to fight a legend is rare and he notes Silva chose this fight and he expresses respect for that. He then notes that since the crowd has no respect for him he has no respect for them. Asked if he has final thoughts, he says no, goes over and shakes hands with Silva again and they share the traditional moment on their knees together.

It looks like they want to interview Silva, he’s in visible pain but guts through it. He apologizes, notes his knee was a little injured coming into the fight and that kick just did him in then apologizes again.

There’s nothing dirty or even all that exceptional about the kick, but Cannonier just lands a hard inside leg kick to the knee and Silva’s knee gives out. Cannonier had been landing that kick pretty regularly and if Silva had an injury coming into the fight this seems almost inevitable. Shame, but the young eat the old in this sport.

Jessica Andrade is on a three fight winning streak and is an impressive 6-1 at strawweight with that lone loss coming in a title fight against Joanna Jedrzejczyk, this marks her second chance at the title and she’s trying to walk out of the cage with the belt around her waist. Rose Namajunas is on a three fight winning streak that includes back to back wins over Jedrzejczyk, now she’s after her second title defense and looking to carve out her own legacy as champion. Andrade is a slight -120 favorite to +100 for the champion Namajunas.

Strawweight Title Bout: (c) Rose Namajunas (8-3, 114.5 lbs.) vs. #1 Jessica Andrade (19-6, 114.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Namajunas is three and a half inches taller and has three inches of reach on Andrade. They touch gloves to get us going. Namajunas working the jab early, Andrade looking to close distance. Namajunas lands a right. Andrade doesn’t have much of an answer to the jab, they get close and Andrade lands a right. There’s some blood around the left eye of Andrade, and she lands a leg kick. Namajunas lands a few more jabs then a one two. Namajunas looks really sharp, and her hand speed is excellent. Andrade punches close and gets a takedown, Namajunas uses the threat of a kimura to initiate a scramble, then Andrade hits a slam but Namajunas uses the threat of an armbar to force another scramble and she’s back up. Namajunas lands a couple of punches then tries a double leg but Andrade is back up and lands a right to the body. Andrade lands a leg kick but her lack of body work thus far is troubling. Another leg kick from Andrade lands, Namajunas lands a couple of jabs. They trade lefts, then Andrade eats a knee and gets dropped, Namajunas is on top in the guard. Andrade is back up, Namajunas lands a bit of a high kick. Andrade back to the lead leg, and eats another jab. Another leg kick then a right from Andrade get through, they get close and brawl a bit but Andrade is starting to go to the body. They clinch up, and that’s where the round will end.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Namajunas, near 10-8

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Andrade lands a couple of leg kicks, Namajunas is starting to jab again. Namajunas lands a one two and eats a left hook then she avoids a further rush from Andrade. Bit of a hook sequence from Andrade then she walks into a counter hook. Namajunas lands a few more long punches. Andrade lands a right to the body. Again Andrade goes to the body then lands a left hook. Namajunas lands a couple of punches then fails on a takedown attempt. Another leg kick from Andrade lands. More leg kicks from Andrade but on the outside she’s getting lit up by Namajunas. Andrade flurries into a clinch and lands a knee to the body and clinches up. Elevated slam from Andrade KO’s Namajunas! Damn, what a slam.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER and NEW UFC Strawweight Champion– Jessica Andrade via KO, slam, at 2:58 of Round 2

That’s the first slam finish to a UFC title fight since Hughes vs. Newton 1. There’s a reason Andrade’s nickname is Portuguese for pile drive. Mic time for Andrade, who also has the most wins by any woman in UFC history with this win, she gives the belt to her coach and they’re both emotional about the moment. She says she was certain of what she had to do, and noticed that Namajunas was slowing down and she was able to get closer and use her strength then wishes Happy Mothers Day to everyone. To close she thanks everyone who was supporting her, her family and coaches specifically, to close out her mic time.

Namajunas gets an interview as well, she puts over Brazil as an awesome place with great people and was touched by them then notes not being champion is a huge pressure off of her shoulders. I get a serious laugh out of DC on commentary when they talk about some fighters feeling relieved after losing the belt, he just goes “Dude, I cried”.

Here’s a look at the finish. Cormier on commentary talked through this expertly so I’ll paraphrase, most of the time when you hit this kind of high crotch lift to slam the other guy winds up falling onto their back. Cormier did that to both Gustafsson and Barnett, but Namajunas holds on to a double wrist lock and that means as she’s coming down instead of rotating all the way through to land flat she lands on her neck/head and that’s all she wrote.

Alright everyone, on that note UFC 237 comes to a close. Thanks to everyone for reading along, be that live or after the fact. We’ll be unpacking all of the action from this event on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast, plus previewing UFC Fight Night 152. That card has a good main event as Rafael dos Anjos welcomes Kevin Lee to the ranks of welterweight. I’ll be back for that event next week, I hope you will be as well. Until then, thank you all again, stay safe out there and keep checking 411mania for all your pop culture needs.

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