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411’s UFC on ESPN+ 19 Report: Jedrzejczyk Wins

October 12, 2019 | Posted by Robert Winfree
UFC on ESPN+ 19 Jedrzejczyk

MAIN CARD (ESPN+, 8 p.m. ET)
#5 Joanna Jedrzejczyk (115.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Michelle Waterson (115 lbs.)
Kron Gracie (145.5 lbs.) vs. Cub Swanson (146 lbs.)
Niko Price (170 lbs.) vs. James Vick (170.5 lbs.)
Mackenzie Dern (115 lbs.) vs. Amanda Ribas (115 lbs.)
Matt Frevola (154 lbs.) vs. Luis Pena (154.5 lbs.)
Eryk Anders (186 lbs.) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (184.5 lbs.)

PRELIMINARY CARD (ESPN+, 5 p.m. ET)
Devin Clark (205.5 lbs.) vs. Ryan Spann (205 lbs.)
Mike Davis (155.5 lbs.) vs. Thomas Gifford (155 lbs.)
Max Griffin (169. lbs.5) vs. Alex Morono (170 lbs.)
#6 Tim Elliott (125.5 lbs.) vs. #3 Deiveson Figueiredo (125.5)
Andre Ewell (135 lbs.) vs. Marlon Vera (135 lbs.)
Hector Aldana (170 lbs.) vs. Miguel Baeza (170 lbs.)
Andrew Sanchez (184 lbs.) vs. Marvin Vettori (185 lbs.)
J.J. Aldrich (125 lbs.) vs. Lauren Mueller (125.5 lbs.)

Hello everyone and welcome to 411mania’s LIVE coverage of UFC on ESPN+ 19. I’m Robert Winfree and I’ll be your host for the evening, relaying all of the action to you good people just as I see it. Tonight the UFC is back in Tampa and have brought a pretty decent card with them. The main event likely determines the next title challenger to freshly crowned strawweight champion Weili Zhang when former longtime champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk returns to the division, after a failed bid to capture the flyweight title, and takes on the resurgent veteran Michelle Waterson. Also on this card Cub Swanson tries to halt a four fight losing streak against undefeated jiu-jitsu ace Kron Gracie, former lightweight contender James Vick moves up to welterweight and battles Florida Man Niko Price. Buried on the prelims, because of course it is, is an incredibly compelling flyweight battle between Deiveson Figueiredo and Tim Elliott, Marlon Vera is back in action against Andre Ewell, and a lot more. This card may lack in casual appeal but if you watch a fair bit of MMA you can look down this card and find a lot to be excited about.

UFC on ESPN+ 19 comes to the world from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida, USA. On commentary we have Brendan Fitzgerald and “One Eyed Willie” Michael Bisping. We’ll also have Trevor Wittman contributing to the broadcast on occasion, which is always a welcome addition. We’re under the new rules mostly, so the language around scoring is more encouraging of 10-8’s and extending fingers towards your opponent can be ruled a foul regardless of contact being made. The definition of a grounded opponent is slightly different here though, you need both palms (or presumably fists) flat on the mat to be considered downed.

JJ Aldrich has gone 3-2 in the UFC and is coming off of a loss in her return to flyweight, now she’s looking to avoid her first ever losing streak while getting back on the winning side of things. Lauren Mueller has gone 1-2 in the UFC and is currently on a two fight losing streak, she badly needs a win to halt this skid she’s on. The odds are -170 for Aldrich, +140 for Mueller.

Women’s Flyweight Bout: J.J. Aldrich (7-3, 125 lbs.) vs. Lauren Mueller (5-2, 125.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Aldrich has half an inch of reach advantage. Aldrich fighting southpaw, and working the jab early as both women circle and look to get a feel for the fight. A couple of punches land for Aldrich. There are already “woo’s” in the crowd, God help us all. Mueller is trying to establish her kicking game, she lands a body kick. Stiff left lands for Aldrich. Another left lands for Aldrich. Aldrich lands a one two, her hand speed and straighter punches are giving Mueller all kinds of problems so far. Neither woman has tremendous footwork but Aldrich is doing a good job of never getting close to the fence if she’s backing up. They clinch up, and Aldrich pushes Mueller to the cage. A few knees go back and forth, Aldrich gets a body lock takedown and lands in half guard. Mueller is looking to wall walk, she does and we’re back in the clinch. More knees are being traded as they jockey for position. Mueller catches a knee and takes Aldrich down, Aldrich back up and the round ends in the clinch.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Aldrich

ROUND ONE: Bit of a right hook from Aldrich gets the second round going, Mueller lands a bit of a body kick. They trade lefts, then trade rights after a second. Mueller is backing Aldrich towards the fence more, Aldrich lands a left then a right hook and circles away from the fence. Stiff left from Aldrich lands. Mueller misses a combination, Aldrich gets a clinch. They hit the fence, Aldrich has the body lock and is looking for a takedown. Mueller spins Aldrich and they trade body shots before breaking. Mueller lands a couple of rights and then tries a high kick that’s blocked. Aldrich is bleeding from the nose, Mueller lands another right then a body kick. Both of these women could benefit from some body work, Aldrich in particular as boxing centered as her offense is. Aldrich eats a body kick but lands a couple of one twos. Another left lands for Aldrich, Mueller lands a right but Aldrich is firing in combinations. Mueller lands a right while backing Aldrich up. They trade lefts. Mueller pushes close and lands a couple of punches before Aldrich is able to circle away from her. Mueller is really coming on strong, lands a body kick but eats a front kick to the face as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Mueller but a closer round, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Aldrich comes out on fire and landing a flurry of punches. More lefts from Aldrich, Mueller’s left eye is swelling. They clinch up in space then break. Bit of a right from Mueller but Aldrich lands a couple of counters. The volume and hand speed of Aldrich is winning her this round so far. Another three two from Aldrich lands. Bit of a combination from Mueller but Aldrich is slipping and countering more now. Aldrich lands a side kick to the body. One two from Aldrich to counter a single punch from Mueller. Aldrich lands a straight left. Mueller catches a side kick and lands a couple of straight rights before she gets free. They trade power hand punches. Aldrich lands another one two after taking a bit of a left. Both women land power hand punches but Aldrich is the one who follows up with more offense. Mueller tries a kick, Aldrich fires another left and the clock runs down.

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

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

No issues with Aldrich edging out the second, pretty decent fight. No interview for Aldrich.

Marvin Vettori has gone 3-2-1 in the UFC but is coming off of a win and could get his first UFC winning streak up and running with a win here. Andrew Sanchez has gone 2-2 in his last four fights but is on a two fight winning streak, now he’s hoping to earn a step up in competition with his third consecutive win. Vettori is a surprisingly heavy -420 favorite to a +330 comeback for Sanchez that has to tempt some bettors out there.

Middleweight Bout: Andrew Sanchez (11-4, 184 lbs.) vs. Marvin Vettori (13-4-1, 185 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Sanchez is an inch taller while the reach is identical. Southpaw for Vettori, and we’re underway. Both men feinting early, Vettori lands a couple of jabs. Hooks and uppercuts from Vettori, Sanchez covers up and circles away from the fence. Another combination from Vettori mostly lands. Sanchez lands an inside leg kick. Vettori pushes forward, lands a bit of a knee. Left then a knee from Vettori. Sanchez lands another inside leg kick. Vettori tries a body kick that looks like it was blocked. Another combination from Vettori then lands a knee to the body. Jab from Vettori. Sanchez lands a jab of his own but the difference in technique is obvious when it comes to the punching. Vettori checks an inside leg kick. One two from Vettori. Stepping knee from Vettori, then a right hook and a body shot. Sanchez is hanging tough and talking back but he’s not had much offense. Vettori lands a body kick, Sanchez counters with a left. Sanchez lands a body kick but eats a counter and Vettori lands a combination. Vettori should alter his attack, Sanchez is covering up well and Vettori is ignoring his body with his hands. Sanchez tries a single leg, Vettori stuffs it and lands a left. Another left lands for Vettori. Sanchez misses a few jabs as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Vettori, nearly a 10-8 numerically

ROUND TWO: Sanchez tries an inside leg kick early and Vettori fires counters immediately. Vettori lands a right hook. Jabs from Vettori then a left hook and a knee to the head before they clinch. They spin free and Vettori lands a left. Trevor Wittman mentions the lack of body work from Vettori. Sanchez lands an inside leg kick but he’s getting countered every time. Vettori lands a heavy left body kick. Jab from Vettori, Sanchez lands a counter this time. Vettori lands a knee to the body off of a brief clinch. Sanchez lands a right at the end of a combination. Another body kick from Vettori. Vettori lands a bit of a left but Sancehz’s pressure and feinting are stating to draw him out as the round goes on. Sanchez blocks a combination but he’s bleeding from the nose. Vettori lands a left, then a right hook and another straight left. Sanchez fires back with a left hook. Single leg attempt from Sanchez, Vettori defends easily and lands a combination of punches. Body shot from Vettori. Vettori lands a left, Sanchez tries a high kick that’s blocked. Vettori catches Sanchez stepping in with a straight left as the last blow of the round.

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

ROUND THREE: Vettori opens with a leg kick. Sanchez showing the jab and pressuring Vettori backwards so far. Spinning back fist from Sanchez lands, Vettori backs up a bit then fires a few punches. Vettori lands a left. Bit of a counter right from Vettori. Body kick from Vettori. Vettori catches a kick and gets a rear waist lock then pushes Sanchez to the fence. They wind up breaking without incident. Stiff one two from Vettori, Sanchez has a heck of a chin. Vettori lands another left body kick. Another spinning back fist from Sanchez, Vettori smothers that one after land a punch. Vettori lands another punch. Sanchez misses a punch, Vettori lands a hard left to the body that gets Sanchez to back up for a second. High kick from Vettori is blocked. Both men land punches in close. Vettori lands a right hook. Sanchez misses a few punches then has a high kick blocked. Vettori digs a hard body kick, that one hurt me just looking at it but Sanchez is still upright. Sanchez misses a high kick. High kick from Vettori is blocked then he lands a left. They trade a bit just as the round ends.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marvin Vettori via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Vettori looked pretty good there, no interview though.

Miguel Baeza is undefeated and comes into his UFC debut on the back of a win on Dana’s Contender Series. He’s looking to remain unbeaten and score that all important first UFC win. Hector Aldana has yet to win in the UFC, in fact his last professional win was in 2013 and he’s likely fighting for his job in this bout. The odds are with Baeza at -220 to a +180 for Aldana.

Welterweight Bout: Hector Aldana (4-2, 170 lbs.) vs. Miguel Baeza (7-0, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Baeza is three inches taller but he has only two inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get things going. Circling to start, Baeza is the one around the outside. Aldana blocks a right. Leg kick from Aldana. Baeza lands a calf kick. Bit of a body kick from Baeza, but this has been a very sedate fight so far. Some leg kicks go back and forth then Baeza misses a high kick and avoids a counter blitz. Solid calf kick from Baeza. Both men have rights blocked. More leg kicks from Baeza. Aldana tries to counter a leg kick with a punch, Baeza is backing up. Aldana misses a few punches, Baeza lands another leg kick. Baeza has a high kick blocked. Baeza lands a right to the body. Aldana eats another leg kick and tries to crash distance but can’t. Baeza gets a surprise double leg just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Baeza

ROUND TWO: More circling for this round. Aldana lands a bit of a leg kick. Baeza has a high kick blocked. Aldana lands another leg kick. Baeza lands a calf kick. Baeza keeps showing the front kick but hasn’t really landed it yet. They trade calf kicks but Baeza landed better. Left then an uppercut from Baeza. Both men miss punches. Baeza lands a couple of calf kicks and the second drops Aldana. Baeza is on top and unloads on him until the ref waves the fight off.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Miguel Baeza via TKO, leg kick and elbows, at 2:32 of Round 2

Not the highest pace you’ll see a fight contested at, but some surgical work from Baeza. Mic time for Baeza, he’s a bit overwhelmed as he’s from Florida and says the feeling defies description. Talking us through the finish he puts over his coach for getting him ready.

Have a look at the finish. Baeza has been investing in that calf kick all fight, and it quickly added up to Aldana being unable to stand and between Aldana just kind of covering up but making no move to regain his feet and Baeza throwing a lot of elbows the ref waves it off.

Marlon Vera is riding a four fight winning streak all of which have been finishes, he’s hoping to extend that streak here and earn a shot at some ranked opposition next. Andre Ewell has gone 2-1 in the UFC, he’s coming off of a win though and could get his first UFC winning streak going at the expense of a recognized prospect. Vera is a slight -165 favorite to a +135 payout for Ewell.

Bantamweight Bout: Andre Ewell (15-5, 135 lbs.) vs. Marlon Vera (14-5-1, 135 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Ewell has a significant four and a half inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves, both men fighting southpaw. Ewell counters a leg kick with a left. Vera avoids a punch, tries a takedown but he has no drive and that lets Ewell disengage. Some stance switching from Vera now, he lands a bit of a body kick. Ewell with a straight left. Hard inside leg kick from Vera, Ewell responds with a few punches. Vera avoids a punch, grabs a standing arm triangle choke and uses that to force a takedown, he’s committing to that and winds up on the bottom but still holding it with full guard. Ewell is trying to break the grip, he can’t but he’s able to use his legs to release parts of the pressure and Vera bails on the choke to save his arms. Full guard for Vera right now. A few elbows from the bottom by Vera. Ewell hits the body a couple of times but he’s not doing a whole lot from the top position. Vera lands a few more elbows from his back. Armbar attempt from Vera, it doesn’t get close and lets Ewell stand free. Ewell lands a jab. They trade a bit. Ewell lands to the body. Vera misses a knee. Both men miss punches again, Ewell with a bit of a combination as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Vera but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Vera comes out kicking to the leg and body. Ewell lands a left. More pressure from Vera with kicks being the focus of his offense so far. Vera lands an inside leg kick. Ewell is circling along the fence, his legs aren’t quite as much under him as they were in the first. Ewell catches a kick, Vera gets free and lands a knee. Body kick from Vera. Vera slips on a spinning back kick, Ewell lands a jab. Ewell slips a couple of punches and lands a hook. Vera lands a body kick. Vera lands a front kick to the body but eats a counter right hook. Inside leg kick from Vera. Ewell lands a left. Vera’s kicks are good but he’s dropping his hands when he throws them and Ewell is starting to find counters. Front kick from Vera then an inside leg kick. They clinch and Vera lands knees to the body and thigh. More knees from Vera then they break without issue. Another front kick to the body from Vera, Ewell doesn’t like that and Vera looks to tee off along the fence. Ewell is able to fire back and get Vera to back off for a second, Vera looks to close in again just as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Vera starts backing Ewell to the fence, and lands a body kick. They trade punches, Vera lands a front kick to the body and Ewell is really unhappy with that. High kick from Vera and a couple of knees. Vera lands a body kick. Ewell lands a couple of punches. Vera with a leg kick and slips the counter punches. Inside leg kick from Vera, that one hurts Ewell. Another kick then a right hand from Vera and Ewell has to escape a clinch quickly. Vera lands an inside leg kick. Jumping knee to the chest from Vera, they clinch up and Vera looks for more knees. Elbows now from Vera as they break. Stiff punches are traded, Vera digs the body a couple of times. Ewell lands a few punches, Vera might have punched himself out for a second there. Vera with a front kick to the body then grabs a standing guillotine, uses that to force Ewell to his back and Vera unloads with punches and elbows from half guard until the ref saves Ewell.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Marlon Vera via TKO, punches and elbows, at 3:17 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Vera for his work this evening. Mic time for Vera, who puts the Ecuadoran flag on Bisping for the interview. He plays with the crowd a bit, and says it’s been a great year because of his work ethic and puts over all of his coaches. He says he does this for his family and kids, then feels his experience is starting to pay off and his coaches told him to aim and fire rather than swing and it worked out.

Deiveson Figueiredo has gone an impressive 5-1 in the UFC, he’s hoping to get another win here and make a case for himself as a player in title picture. Tim Elliott has traded wins and losses while going 2-2 since returning to the UFC, his last fight was up at bantamweight but he’s back at flyweight here and looking for his first UFC winning streak since 2013. The odds are with Figueiredo at -175 to a tempting value bet of +145 for Elliott.

Flyweight Bout: #6 Tim Elliott (15-8-1, 125.5 lbs.) vs. #3 Deiveson Figueiredo (16-1, 125.5)

ROUND ONE: Elliott is two inches taller while Figueiredo has two inches of reach advantage. Southpaw for Figueiredo, Elliott does a lot of stance switching. Both men moving well to start the round, Figueiredo is switching his stance as well. Right hook from Figueiredo wobbles Elliott for a second. Elliott with a side kick to the body then a spinning back fist. They clinch up, trade punches then Figueiredo lands a right as they break. Figueiredo catches a kick but can’t get a takedown. Elliott lands a leg kick. Figueiredo lands a left straight. Elliott lands a left. Elliott is doing a good job of picking at Figueiredo, Figueiredo is looking more for the kill shots. Figueiredo lands a right in close. Jab from Figueiredo. Elliott using the front kick to the body. Knee tap from Elliott, Figueiredo grabs an arm in guillotine and really cinches that up. Elliot winds up tapping out, that’s a big big win.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Deiveson Figueiredo via Submission, guillotine choke, at 3:08 of Round 1

The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Figueiredo for his work this evening. Elliott is a bit unhappy, Figueiredo held the choke a bit longer than necessary. Figueiredo apologized but he should have known better. Mic time now for Figueiredo and his translator, he asks the UFC brass for his shot at Benavidez given how Cejudo is out for the rest of the year and asks if Benavidez is afraid to fight him.

Here’s a look at the finish. Figueiredo grabs the guillotine quickly, it’s arm in and there must have been something about the grip he had. Elliott has plenty of room along the left side of his neck at first, but Figueiredo rolls a bit, adjusts the angle of his arms and Elliott has to tap. You can also see him hold it too long, not cool Figueiredo.

Max Griffin has gone 3-4 in the UFC, he’s coming off of a win and is looking for his first UFC winning streak. Alex Morono is on a two fight winning streak and is hoping to get a shot higher up the ranks if he can get that to three in a row after tonight. The odds are close but lean towards Griffin at -130 to an even +100 on Morono.

Welterweight Bout: Max Griffin (15-6, 169. lbs.5) vs. Alex Morono (16-5 1 NC, 170 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Griffin has four inches of reach advantage. Both men showing the hands early. Griffin is pushing forward early, both men showing the jab now. Jabs go back and forth. Griffin lands a right to the body. More jabs from Griffin, Morono looking to counter. Morono lands a front kick to the body. Griffin lands a body kick. Griffin lands a right. Morono’s punches are falling just a little short so far this round. Griffin lands a right then a leg kick. They trade blows in close. Morono checks a leg kick. Spinning back kick to the body from Morono lands. Griffin looks to crash distance, Morono dissuades him with a knee. Double jab then a right from Morono, who seems to have found his range now. Griffin lands a right. They split a few jabs, Morono lands a bit of a right. Griffin absorbs a few punches, and misses a wheel kick as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Morono but could go either way

ROUND TWO: Griffin back to jabbing, Morono showing counters. Both men jabbing, Morono lands an inside leg kick. Griffin with a bit of a combination then a right to counter a front kick. Griffin lands a right to the body. A lot of the same from both guys, whoever makes the first adjustment is going to really take over. Griffin lands a right and a left that wobbles Morono, he pushes forward but Morono grabs a front headlock to slow him down then separate. Griffin jabs the body a few times. Morono lands a right between the guard of Griffin. More jabs to the body from Griffin, it’s starting to set up the rest of his offense. They trade clubbing rights. Another left to the body from Griffin lands. Griffin lands a right, Morono counters with a left and a left high kick that drops Griffin. Morono is all over him as Griffin fights back up, punches, knees from Morono then a spinning back fist. Griffin fires back with a spinning back fist and they tie up for the final couple of seconds.

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

ROUND THREE: I’m surprised Griffin recovered after that flush head kick, but here we are and he’s coming forward firing punches. Bit of a right from Griffin. Griffin lands another right, Morono is a little off balanced by it. Morono lands a left. Griffin lands a right. They split jabs, Griffin’s jab is the heavier of the two. Jumping knee misses for Griffin but he lands a right hook. Another overhand right from Griffin, that punch is dialed in this round. Griffin punches into a clinch, gets a double leg into half guard. Morono gets full guard and looks to wall walk, he’s up and Griffin lands a couple of knees as they clinch. Elbow from Griffn then an elevated double leg into half guard. Morono fights back to his feet but can’t get free of the clinch. Griffin is keeping Morono on the fence, he gets another takedown into guard. Short punches land for Griffin. Morono back up, but still on the fence. Griffin tries a takedown, Morono slips down but is back up and still clinched. Outside trip form Griffin into full guard, Morono tries an armbar but Griffin steps over and lands punches as the clock runs down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Griffin, 29-28 Morono overall but this all comes down to scoring the first round

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

No issues at all with Morono getting a 10-8 in the second under the new rules, I thought Griffin’s good work from the rest of the round negated that but that’s just me. No interview for Morono.

Here’s the flurry from the end of the second, heck of a flurry from Morono and Griffin’s chin is pretty darn good.

Thomas Gifford lost his UFC debut, and a six fight unbeaten streak, when he had no answers for Roosevelt Roberts. Gifford is trying to bounce back from that loss and get his first UFC win. Mike Davis took this fight on about a weeks notice, he lost his UFC debut against Gilbert Burns earlier this year and is now looking for his first UFC win. The odds lean towards Griffin at -280 to a +230 comeback on Gifford.

Lightweight Bout: Mike Davis (7-1, 155.5 lbs.) vs. Thomas Gifford (17-8 2 NC, 155 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Gifford is an inch taller and has three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Davis quickly with a left to the body then a left hook. Leg kick from Davis, who has absurd hand speed in his favor here. Davis with a punch that wobbles Gifford. Gifford looks for an Imanari roll but can’t get the entanglement. Body to head punches from Davis. Davis lands a right over the jab of Gifford then lands a series of punches from the clinch. Gifford’s chin is incredible, he’s taken a lot of abuse so far and hasn’t gone down. Davis again with the right overhead then a left uppercut. Davis digs a hard left body kick. Gifford is looking to jab now. Davis kicks the body again. A series of hooks to the body and head from Davis. More rights from Davis, Gifford is starting to fire back but he doesn’t have the same firepower. Hard left hook from Davis, Gifford doesn’t even wobble. More punches from Davis then a body kick all land. Gifford is doing a good zombie impression and Davis is unloading on him like a heavy bad. More blows from Davis, Gifford is backed into the fence and Davis continues unloading. They wind up on the mat, Davis landing punches while standing. Elbows from Davis, hard punches, and the ref nearly stops this but the horn saves Gifford.

SCORECARD: 10-7 Davis

ROUND TWO: Davis lands an uppercut but misses the follow ups. Davis might have punched himself out a bit at the end of the round there. Hard leg kick from Davis. Gifford lands a leg kick in return. Davis misses a left hook then lands a right to the body. Gifford reaches for an ankle pick but Davis steps free and lands an uppercut on the feet. Jabs from Davis. Gifford lands a front kick to the face, Davis lands a jumping knee that rocks the head of Gifford but he remains upright. Straight right lands for Davis. Gifford has a head kick blocked. Left hook then a right from Davis, he then stuffs a takedown and pushes Gifford over. Hard punches from Davis and they wind up in north-south. Davis to knee on belly and lands short elbows. Gifford fights up and Davis takes him down then stands back up and makes Gifford stand. Davis lands a right, this should be stopped. Another one two from Davis. Gifford lands a right and is coming forward but walks into a long combination of punches then a jumping knee from Davis. Davis digs the body and lands a knee just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-8 Davis, near 10-7 again, 20-15 Davis overall

ROUND THREE: Gifford’s corner should stop this fight. They touch gloves for the last round. Davis with jabs and a right. Gifford with a body kick. Even commentary is on the “stop the fight” bandwagon. Davis lands the body a few times. Gifford with a bit of a leg kick. More jabs from Davis then a right to the body. Calf kick from Davis. Gifford is still coming forward, he’s after a takedown but can’t finish it and slips off the back. Davis punches him as they get up then avoids a kick. Stiff jab from Davis then a right to the body. Gifford lands a couple of punches then eats a few jabs. Davis lands a left hook that wobbles Gifford. Giifford tries a takedown, pulls guard and is looking for a kneebar. Davis smothers the motion and lands punches. Davis in leg drag position, stands free and they’re back up. Body punches from Davis. A leg kick drops Gifford and he makes him stand back up. Davis with a left hook. Left hook then a leg kick from Davis drop Gifford again. Again Gifford has to stand back up. The ref should have stopped this by now. Gifford fails on an Imanari roll, Davis then lands a left hook. Left then a right from Davis, Gifford face plants and for the love of God finally this is over. That should have been stopped 7 minutes before that punch.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Mike Davis via KO, punch, at 4:45 of Round 3

The Final Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Davis for his work this evening. Shame Gifford’s coaches and that ref, that’s how people die in combat sports. Mic time for Davis, how notes he took this on four days notice, and then says the fight could have been stopped in the first round if he’d landed better but Gifford defended himself enough.

Here’s the finish. This fight should have been stopped between the second and third round, or several minutes before this point. The failure of coaching and officiating aside, this is a nice set up and punch from Davis.

Ryan Spann is on a six fight winning streak that includes two wins in the UFC, he’s looking to build that momentum and move on to greener pastures with another win. Devin Clark has gone 4-3 in the UFC but is coming off of a win and looking to get his second UFC winning streak up and running. The odds are with Spann at -155 to +125 for Clark.

Light Heavyweight Bout: Devin Clark (10-3, 205.5 lbs.) vs. Ryan Spann (16-5, 205 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Spann is five inches taller and has four inches of reach on Clark. They touch gloves, Clark fighting southpaw. Spann is backing Clark into the fence early, Clark lands a hard inside leg kick. Spann misses a few punches. Clark shoots a takedown, he gets it but there’s a guillotine threat from Spann. The arm is in and Clark is able to pull free and stand, Spann back up with him and in the clinch. They break with a bit of a knee from Clark. Clark misses a few punches. Spann is getting Clark on the fence disturbingly easily. Clark gets a double leg, Spann back up and they resume clinching. Knee from Spann, Clark misses a couple of punches. Clark lands a punch as they’re back at distance. Clark lands a left hook. Spann lands a jab. A Clark high kick is blocked. Spann lands a left hook in close. Clark swings into a clinch as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Clark I guess

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Spann lands a jab that off balances Clark for a second. Clark punches into a takedown attempt, Spann defends and they separate. Spann lands a jab. Clark misses a few hooks. Clark lands a jab. Spann lands a few hooks in close that wobble Clark, he’s looking to finish and they trade hooks. Spann grabs a standing guillotine, Clark sinks to his knees trying to defend but his back is on the fence and without the ability to go to his back and release the pressure he’s got to tap.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Ryan Spann via Submission, guillotine choke, at 2:01 of Round 2

Spann has put together some decent wins, and he’s on the mic now. He gives glory to God first, then mentions he wanted to double up on his jab but he felt lethargic and had to work through it. He thanks the crowd for coming out, and his sponsors as well as a few other people to support him. Spann looks like he had more to say but we’re over time so he can’t keep going.

Here’s the finish. Spann wobbles him with punches and when he grabs the choke Clark tries to lower his level to release the pressure but you need to get all the way to your back to really release that kind of pressure and the fence stops that so he has to tap.

That will wrap up the prelims though we’re still on ESPN+ for the main card.

Eryk Anders just broke a three fight losing streak earlier this year, now he’s trying to rebuild some of the hype that was around him a couple of years ago by getting his first UFC winning streak since 2017. Gerald Meerschaert has gone 3-2 in his last five fights but is coming off of a win and looking to build another UFC winning streak at the expense of Anders. Anders is a slight -145 favorite to +115 on Meerschaert.

Middleweight Bout: Eryk Anders (12-4, 186 lbs.) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (29-11, 184.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: These two are the same height while Meerschaert has two and a half inches of reach advantage. Both men fighting southpaw, and they touch gloves to get us started. Meerschaert probing with some jabs. Anders is stalking forward and lands a left. Bit of a one two from Meerschaert. Both men land lefts then leg kicks. Meerschaert lands a right to the body. Anders still kind of coming forward, Meerschaert lands a leg kick and leans away from a left. Anders lands a couple of punches and Meerschaert tries to pull guard but can’t get a hold of him. Back on the feet, Meerschaert lands a right. Anders lands a counter left. Meerschaert tries a takedown but Anders shucks him off. Anders lands a knee to the body in close. Bit of a right from Anders. Meerschaert avoids a left but doesn’t land a counter. Double jab then a left from Meerschaert. Meerschaert lands a right hook. Anders misses a left. Anders lands a right, Meerschaert moves away and they wind up clinched just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Anders

ROUND TWO: Anders is back to pushing Meerschaert towards the fence. Meerschaert lands a short one two. Anders misses an uppercut but shoves Meerschaert over then makes him get back up. They trade lefts but Anders landed better. Anders blocks a combination. Leg kick from Meerschaert. Anders misses a left but lands a body kick. Meerschaert lands a pull back counter left. Anders lands a jab. Meerschaert again avoids a left and lands a counter punch. Anders lands a leg kick. Another fade and counter left from Meerschaert, he’s got a feel for that sequence right now and is landing regularly. Bit of a left from Anders. Meerschaert avoids a high kick. Meerschaert lands a couple of punches in close to counter a missed left. Anders misses a few punches then gets staggered for a second by a Meerschaert left. Body kick from Meerschaert then they trade in close as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Meerschaert, 19-19 overall

ROUND THREE: Meerschaert is back to body kicks, those last couple of body shots hurt Anders at the end of the second. One twos from Meerschaert then a body shot. Anders lands a left. They trade a few punches, Meerschaert doing the volume thing while Anders is hoping to land a killing blow. Jab from Meerschaert. Anders lands a bit of an uppercut, Meerschaert fires back. Left from Anders. Meerschaert lands that left body kick, Anders visibly responded to it. Anders is backing up, lands a bit of a right after taking a couple of body shots. Meerschaert eats a left and fires backc with a one two. Anders lands a right, and walks into a jab. Meerschaert lands a leg kick. Bit of a left from Anders, Meerschaert is rolling well with the blows that he doesn’t fully avoid. Anders lands a body kick. Meerschaert lands to the body and avoids a left the hurts him with a counter punch. Meerschaert lands a body kick and Anders is wobbled and looking to stay away. Anders swings to the body. Meerschaert jabs Anders then lands a left. Anders misses a left to close the round and the fight.

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

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

I firmly disagree with that one. Mic time for Anders, he puts over Meerschaert for stopping him from doing what he wanted and calls him dangerous for the whole fight. He says things went black for a second for him in the third round but he was able to weather that storm.

Matt Frevola has gone 1-1-1 in the UFC, he’s coming off of a win though and is looking to get his first UFC winning streak up and running. Luis Pena has gone 3-1 in the UFC but is finally looking to make the move away from lower level opposition and prove he’s ready to take on more proven opponents. The odds are with Pena at -170 to a +140 comeback on Frevola.

Lightweight Bout: Matt Frevola (7-1-1, 154 lbs.) vs. Luis Pena (7-1, 154.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Pena is a whopping six inches taller and has four inches of reach over Frevola. Southpaw for Pena. Frevola comes out kicking and looking to engage, he lands a right as well. Pena avoids a few wide hooks but eats a body kick. Frevola lands a body kick. Pena is looking to get his kicking game going, he lands a few front kicks and avoids a few counters. Frevola lands an inside leg kick. Bit of a right from Frevola, he’s doing a good job of crowding Pena but should be going to the body more. Pena lands a body kick. Frevola misses a superman punch. Frevola lands a right, misses the follow ups then gets a double leg takedown. Pena almost immediately scrambles to his feet and we’re at distance again. They trade jabs. A clinch after Pena misses a flying knee, Frevola is after a single leg. Frevola elevates and gets a slam into side control. Pena ties him up in a submission who’s name escapes me but Frevola is defending. Pena gets a sweep into top position, Frevola escapes and they’re on the feet. Both men land in the clinch then Pena starts looking for a trip takedown. Pena gets to the back standing, trips Frevola down and lands a few hammer fists as they get up. Pena lands punches as Frevola is backing up. Frevola lands a right but we’ve got a fire fight for the final couple of seconds.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Pena

ROUND TWO: Pena coming forward early, he’s landing punches but Frevola lands a right that backs him off for a second. Frevola is bleeding around the left corner of his mouth. Pena lands a flying knee and a left, Frevola is still upright though. Frevola after a single leg, Pena uses a kimura to roll through to top position Frevola rolls through as well and they’re back up in the clinch. They break without incident. Bit of a one two from Frevola. Pena lands a shovel punch. Long left lands for Pena. Frevola has a few punches blocked, then lands a right. Body kick from Frevola. Frevola is bleeding below the left eye. Both men miss punches. Pena lands a high kick but slips and Frevola blitzes him including a head kick of his own. Frevola gets a takedown, Pena is looking for the kimura to punish him though. Pena gets the better part of a triangle but Frevola gets free and settles into his guard. Pena back up, Frevola hits a mat return, Pena sweeps him and gets the back just as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Both men with some lead hand work. Pena avoids a right. Bit of a front kick to the body from Frevola. Frevola lands a right to the body. Pena working his lead hand more this round. Another right to the body from Frevola. Frevola pushes forward, lands a right. Another right from Frevola lands. A right from Frevola stumbles Pena and Frevola is all over him then gets a takedown along the fence. Pena wall walks but is still in the clinch. Frevola disengages, lands a couple of punches then is back after a takedown. They break again and separate this time. Frevola lands a right to the body. Body kick from Frevola. Pena working his jab more, lands a few of them. Frevola lands a right. Pena back into the fight and lands a right but eats a left hook. Frevola after a takedown but he wont finish it before the clock winds down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Frevola, 29-28 Pena overall

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

Another somewhat dubious split decision, that said it all comes down to the first round and the first was a close round. Mic time for Frevola, he says he worked hard for this and doing this in his new home town of Tampa feels amazing. He says he knew he won round one, knew he lost round two, but always wins the third round.

Mackenzie Dern is undefeated including three wins in the UFC, she’s hoping to make a move up in class with another win here. Amanda Ribas is on a two fight winning streak that includes a successful UFC debut, she’s hoping to prove herself as the prospect people should be talking about by taking out the still hyped Dern. Dern is the -150 favorite to +120 for Ribas.

Strawweight Bout: Mackenzie Dern (7-0, 115 lbs.) vs. Amanda Ribas (7-1, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Dern is an inch taller while Ribas has three inches of reach advantage. They touch gloves to get us going. Both women feinting early. Both women throw a few rights that miss. Ribas lands a one two that off balances Dern but she remains upright. Dern is trying to establish her jab, both women land a few punches. Ribas lands a counter right. Another counter right from Ribas, she’s got a read on that counter punch when Dern swings and misses. Inside leg kick from Ribas lands. Another counter right from Ribas, Dern has had enough of that and tries a single leg but Ribas scrambles back up instantly. Ribas lands a couple of body shots. Another combination from Ribas, Dern misses throwing back and they clinch, Ribas hits a judo hip throw and lands in the guard of Dern. Dern very nearly has a triangle locked up but can’t get over the arm of Ribas and goes back to full guard. That position is where the round will end.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ribas

ROUND TWO: Ribas circling again, working the jab. Dern dives for a single leg, Ribas defends and separates. More jabs from Ribas, Dern’s striking is awkward and she’s getting hit off balance. Ribas lands an inside leg kick then a right. Dern lands a bit of a left hook. They clash on rights, both women landed. Dern tries a single leg again, Ribas defends again. Ribas lands to the body and head. Another clash of punches, both women land but Ribas seems to have landed better. Ribas jabs a few times. Another counter right from Ribas lands. Stiff jab from Ribas, Dern just doesn’t move her head almost at all and her chin tends to drift up during exchanges. They clinch up, Dern nearly gets the back off of a hip throw but Ribas turns into her and gets into full guard. Ribas stands free and forces things back to teh feet. Ribas gets close along the fence and lands a combination as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: They touch gloves for the final round. Dern misses a few punches. Ribas lands an inside leg kick. Dern lands a leg kick. Ribas lands a few jabs then a right to the body. Ribas absorbs a body kick and lands a three punch combination to counter. Dern tries a single leg, winds up pulling guard but Ribas gets free after landing a few hammer fists. Not a whole lot going on here, any minute of this fight looks like another. Ribas lands a counter right. Ribas avoids a single leg, lands a couple of one twos flush. Dern misses a few punches. More jabs from Ribas then a leg kick. Ribas avoids a clinch attempt and lands a few more punches. Dern just doesn’t have the technique to deal with this as Ribas lands a few more punches before the clock runs out.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Ribas, could be a 10-8 numerically, 30-27 Ribas overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Amanda Ribas via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Well that certainly took a lot of time. Mic time for Ribas, she trained a lot for movement and the jab to keep Dern at distance and keep her from being able to shoot on her. Her father is one of her corner men, she calls her team her family and says when you come to the gym that’s what you should find.

Niko Price has gone 3-2 in his last five fights, he’s coming off of a loss to Geoff Neal and is hoping to avoid his first ever losing streak by getting back on the winning side of things. James Vick was making some noise at lightweight for a couple of years but the three fight losing streak he currently finds himself on prompted this move to welterweight where he’s hoping to revitalize his career. Price is a slight -155 favorite to +125 for Vick.

Welterweight Bout: Niko Price (13-3 1 NC, 170 lbs.) vs. James Vick (13-4, 170.5 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Vick is three inches taller but the reach is identical. Price starts backing Vick up early, and misses a couple of punches. Leg kick from Price. Vick misses a knee and eats a counter right. Vick lands a bit of a right then a leg kick. Price coming forward, off balances Vick and gets on top in side control. Vick gets to half guard, eats an elbow then a left hand. Vick is looking to wall walk, Price keeps him away from the fence. Price lands a few punches, Vick to his feet along the fence though. Vick reverses a throw attempt and lands on top, Price KO’s Vick with an up kick! I need a replay to confirm that the right knee wasn’t down but man that was bad.

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Niko Price via KO, up kick, at 1:44 of Round 1

Replay confirms the kick was legal. Gnarly KO. The First Round Finish Club thanks Mr. Price for his work this evening. Mic time for Price, he says he just wants to hit you from anywhere and feels fighting isn’t a technique it’s a mindset. He says he’ll go as high as he can in the UFC and wants to get to the title if possible.

That’s just the second up kick finish in UFC history, the first was in 2006 when Jon Fitch finished Thiago Alves. Make sure you have the sound turned on, you need to hear this up kick when it lands.

Cub Swanson is a respected veteran of the sport who’s narrowly missed out on title opportunities twice, but is currently on a four fight losing streak. Swanson needs a win here if he wants to remain something approximating a relevant player in the division, and could very likely be fighting for his spot on the roster. Kron Gracie is undefeated and coming off of a in his UFC debut, he’s looking to notch the biggest win of his career to date by taking out a rugged veteran of the sport. Gracie is the favorite at -185 while a Swanson win would payout at +155.

Featherweight Bout: Kron Gracie (5-0, 145.5 lbs.) vs. Cub Swanson (25-11, 146 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Gracie is an inch taller but the reach is identical. Southpaw for Gracie, Swanson does a fair bit of stance switching. Swanson lands a right while moving, they both land follow up rights. Swanson lands a leg kick. Gracie is showing some stance switching but mostly is fighting southpaw and plodding forward. Right to the body from Swanson then a leg kick. Jabs now from Swanson, he’s trying to maintain distance. Swanons lands a right hook. Again Swanson lands a right, he’s catching Gracie when he’s coming in. Swanson lands a hard body kick. The movement of Swanson is giving Gracie problems, and Swanson lands a right to the body. Gracie avoids a right. Swanson lands a right. Left to the body from Swanson and he avoids the motion of Gracie. Another couple of body shots from Swanson. Gracie is able to get close and lands a couple of punches. They both land short punches while moving along the fence but the motion of Swanson is keeping Gracie at distance. Left from Swanson stumbles Gracie for a second. Swanson lands another body shot. Another body kick from Swanson will be the last relevant blow of the round.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Swanson

ROUND TWO: Swanson back to moving and punching, Gracie still coming forward. Glancing right from Swanson then a body shot. Leg kick from Swanson and he avoids Gracie trying to get in close. Swanson lands a few more body shots. Gracie lands a front kick to the body. Swanson lands a straight right. More body shots from Swanson. Gracie is undeterred by the resistance, he punches into a clinch but can’t keep it and Swanson gets free. Swanson lands a few more punches, Gracie tries to jump guard but slips off and Swanson separates. Another couple of body shots from Swanson land. Swanson slips while kicking, Gracie can’t get on top though. Gracie ties up and pulls guard but he can’t complete a sweep attempt and Swanson is back up and free. They trade rights then Swanson lands a left. A couple of rights land for Swanson. Gracie lands a couple of jabs, then Swanson digs the body. Gracie forces a clinch and lands a couple of rights then a left as they break. Swanson lands rights and uppercuts from a half collar tie then lands a body shot. Left lands for Swanson. Gracie lands a one two. They clinch up again, trade blows then separate. Both men are bleeding, Gracie from the bridge of the nose and Swanson around the corner of his right eyebrow. A double jab from Gracie closes the round.

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

ROUND THREE: They trade power hand punches. Swanson digs the body again then lands a right. Gracie tries to clinch up, Swanson lands to the body then lands a leg kick. They tie up, Swanson lands to the body and then spins free. Front kick to the body from Swanson then a couple of punches to the head. Swanson lands a left hook then a right and angles away from Gracie. Gracie’s able to get close, tries to pull guard and lands an up kick as Swanson separates. A three punch combination lands for Swanson, they keep tying up and Gracie tries a judo toss but Swanson smothers it with a tight wizzer and separates. A long combination of punches lands for Swanson, Gracie tries to pull guard again but slips and then misses an up kick. Gracie eats a body shot then lands a right. More body shots from Swanson. Swanson’s movement isn’t there this round, but he’s still winning the slug fest. Another combination from Swanson, Gracie is firing back but his right eye is swelling. The pace of this fight is nuts. Gracie pulls guard, Swanson looks at the clock then goes into his guard for the final 40 seconds. They hang out, Swanson gets back up and they resume slugging at each other. Another body shot from Swanson, they keep punching, tie up and the fight ends in the clinch.

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

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Cub Swanson via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)

Fun little brawl between those two, your probable Fight of the Night as things currently stand. Mic time for Swanson, who jokes that he’s tired and then puts over Gracie for standing and banging with him for most of that fight. He mentions the body work and that Gracie seemed to just eat them and keep coming. He gets emotional when noting this is his first win in some time.

Joanna Jedrzejczyk used to be the strawweight champion and looked like an incredibly difficult challenge for anyone in the division; however, she currently finds herself just 1-3 in her last four fights. Granted those three losses are to Rose Namajunas and a flyweight title fight with Valentina Shevchenko but her lone win during that time was over Tecia Torres who’s currently on a four fight losing streak of her own. Jedrezjczyk is hoping to challenge new champion Weili Zhang if she can get a win here. Michelle Waterson is enjoying a career resurgence as she’s currently on a three fight winning streak. Waterson is looking for the biggest win of her career and would be the most likely next contender as well if she scores a win. Jedrzejczyk is the favorite at -350 while Waterson’s comeback sits at +275.

Strawweight Bout: #5 Joanna Jedrzejczyk (15-3, 115.5 lbs.) vs. #7 Michelle Waterson (17-6, 115 lbs.)

ROUND ONE: Jedrzejczyk is three inches taller and has three and a half inches of reach advantage. Both women feinting a bit to begin. Bit of a leg kick from Jedrzejczyk. Waterson doing some stance switching, lands a side kick to the body but eats a leg kick. Combination from Jedrzejczyk is partially successful. Waterson catches a leg kick and tries a takedown but they hit the fence and wind up in the clinch. Knees to back and forth, Waterson with a bit of an elbow. Elbow from Jedrzejczyk then more knees to the body. Waterson lands an elbow as they break. Jedrzejczyk misses a few kicks, both women still trying to get a feel for the distance. Jedrzejczyk lands a right. Waterson forces a clinch, and lands a bit of an elbow as they hit the fence. Jedrzejczyk with knees to the body and spins Waterson to the fence. Knees and elbows from Jedrzejczyk, she’s got Waterson stuck on the cage. Waterson lands an elbow but she’s getting out worked thus far in the clinch. Both women land some short elbows. Jedrzejczyk lands knees to the body, slips around to the back standing just as the round ends.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Jedrzejczyk

ROUND TWO: They touch gloves for the second round. Jedrzejczyk back to showing the jab, she lands a couple of leg kicks. Body kick then a leg kick from Jedrzejczyk. Jedrzejczyk lands more leg kicks. Waterson lands a right, and eats a leg kick. More leg kicks from Jedrzejczyk, Waterson is bleeding from the nose now. Waterson lands a left high kick, Jedrzejczyk lands a leg kick and avoids a takedown attempt. Another high kick attempt from Waterson is blocked, Jedrzejczyk lands a leg kick. Waterson shoots a double leg, they wind up clinched on the fence. Elbow from Waterson lands, she’s got Jedrzejczyk on the cage. Another elbow from Waterson lands as they break. They both have combinations blocked. Jedrzejczyk lands a right, Waterson tries a single leg that winds up clinched on the fence. Jedrzejczyk lands knees to the body but she can’t get free. Waterson gives up an under hook and Jedrzejczyk spins her to the fence then lands a few elbows. Elbow from Waterson then they trade knees to the body. Jedrzejczyk is keeping a high output, lands a right as they separate. Waterson tries a side kick but Jedrzejczyk lands a front kick to the face to intercept and off balances her for a second. They get close and trade, Jedrzejczyk is getting the better of this consistently. More leg kicks from Jedrzejczyk as the round ends.

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

ROUND THREE: Jedrzejczyk back to leg kicking, lands a body kick as well. Body kick from Jedrzejczyk. Waterson misses a high kick. Waterson lands a body kick of her own, Jedrzejczyk lands a leg kick. A body kick from Waterson but she’s eating three or four counters every time she lands a blow. Jedrzejczyk lands a leg kick. They get close and trade then clinch up, Jedrzejczyk gets the back standing and kicks the legs from Waterson out and gets her back. Jedrzejczyk gets a cravate, nearly a d’arce position and is looking to lock it up. Waterson defends and regains her feet then they break. Jedrzejczyk avoids a kick and lands a leg kick. Waterson tries a few front kicks but can’t find the target. They clinch again, Waterson gets a trip and jumps to the back, she’s got both hook sin and is after the choke. The choke isn’t under the chin but she’s not giving up the position. Jedrzejczyk fights back to her feet and they end the round trading blows in close quarters.

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

ROUND FOUR: Jedrzejczyk comes out and gets back to work with combinations. Right from Jedrzejczyk then a leg kick. Waterson eats a front kick to the body then a left hook. Jedrzejczyk lands a right, Waterson forces a clinch and they hit the fence. Jedrzejczyk lands an elbow and then a leg kick as they break. More leg kicks from Jedrzejczyk then a body kick. Waterson misses a few front kicks then eats a leg kick. Waterson misses a few kicks and eats a right hand. Jedrzejczyk lands a body kick. The output from Jedrzejczyk is still crazy, she has a motor that wont stop. Jedrzejczyk lands another leg kick then a right to the body. Waterson grabs a single leg attempt, they hit the fence though and stall out in the clinch. Waterson lands an elbow, Jedrzejczyk looks to spin to her back and gets it then drives Waterson to the mat. Jedrzejczyk can’t keep her down and Waterson resumes fighting in the clinch. Knees from Jedrzejczyk and a short right elbow. A few more knees from Jedrzejczyk as she’s got a Thai clinch, Waterson breaks it and gets close. Elbows from Waterson and the round ends in the clinch.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Jedrzejczyk, 40-36 Jedrzejczyk overall

ROUND FIVE: Jedrzejczyk’s right foot is visibly swollen along the instep, might be broken. They hug before the final round. They both land punches again. Waterson misses a rush. Jedrzejczyk misses a few jabs. Another combination from Jedrzejczyk that ends with a leg kick. V is mostly kicking with her left leg this round but she will throw the right if necessary. Waterson is on the fence, she takes a leg kick and a long left. They clinch again on the cage. Waterson gets a body lock but isn’t able to do much with it. Jedrzejczyk lands a knee and separates. Waterson lands a side kick to the knee, then eats a leg kick. Another takedown attempt from Waterson and she gets the back but this time Jedrzejczyk gets upright and Waterson has to settle for backpack position. Jedrzejczyk hand fighting, Waterson gives up on the position and settles for a clinch. Knees from Jedrzejczyk then a right as they break. Jedrzejczyk avoids a takedown attempt. Waterson tries a spinning elbow, but Jedrzejczyk ducked the other way so it misses. Right then a left from Jedrzejczyk and a left hook. Jedrzejczyk punches to another clinch, and lands knees, gets the back just as the clock runs down.

SCORECARD: 10-9 Jedrzejczyk, 50-45 Jedrzejczyk overall

OFFICIAL RESULT: †WINNER – Joanna Jedrzejczyk via unanimous decision (49-46, 50-45 x2)

Not sure I agree with Waterson getting a round, the back take was nice but she didn’t get close with that choke attempt and got beat up the entire rest of the round. Mic time for Jedrzejczyk, she says this was going to be her party and notes she broke her foot either late in the second or early in the third then plays with the crowd. She puts over her coaches and her family then says she wants a shot at the belt. She expected the clinch game from Waterson but she’s working on her grappling, puts over her gym again and then puts over Waterson as a warrior. To close she reiterates she says she’s the real queen of the division and wants her title back, then expresses love to her family and laments that her broken foot will hinder her partying ability tonight.

Waterson also gets an interview, she’s visibly emotional and struggles to find words, she says she wanted to win and feels disappointed but you have to keep going forward even through adversity and puts over Jedrzejczyk. She plans on going back to the drawing board and get better, actually talks through a few of her technical mistakes from this fight. Bisping puts her over to close her interview.

Alright everyone, that wraps up UFC on ESPN+ 19. Thank you all for being here and reading, be that live or after the fact. Next week the UFC is back on ESPN and in Boston for a pretty decent card. We’ll break down all of the action from this event and preview that one Sunday on the 411 Ground and Pound MMA Podcast, feel free to leave questions below or tweet me @WinfreeMMA and I’ll be happy to get your questions on the show. I’ll be back next week for that UFC on ESPN card and I hope you’ll all be here as well. Until then thanks again, stay safe out there, and keep checking 411mania for all of you pop culture needs.

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