UFC Fight Night 224 ‘Aspinall vs. Tybura’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring

Daniel Barez (125) vs. Jafel Filho (126)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Filho (-125), Barez (+105)

Round 1

Returning to its favorite city in England, the UFC once more travels to London with a show crammed to the rafters with local talent. The matchmakers made certain that those from the U.K. battle it out against foreign opponents in hopes of getting the crowd lathered up, and the final 10 bouts will see just that kind of matchup. The first fight on the card, however, is simply South America vs. Spain, when Brazilian finisher Filho (14-3, 0-1 UFC) hunts for his first Octagon win against Burjassot native Barez (16-5, 0-0 UFC). Combined, the two flyweights celebrate just four decision wins across their 30 pro victories, so the UFC knows exactly what it is doing by putting these two spinning tops together. Before they clash, referee Marc Goddard fixes the cage door, and then he clocks them in. They meet in the middle of the Octagon without a touch of gloves, as Filho instead leads the dance with a sharp body kick. Filho dances back to avoid a one-two, and he tosses out another kick to the ribs. Following the blow with a takedown shot, Barez shoves him away. Barez sits down on a trio of leg kicks, with the third making Filho move awkwardly. Barez walks him down and slugs him in the face, and he proceeds to launch a right to the head and a left to the liver. The body shot sends him crashing down to the floor, and Barez backs off and lets him back off. From there, Barez stalks own his injured opponent and blasts him in the body again, forcing Filho once more to crumble to the mat. Barez is smart to not follow him into the guard, and he instead allows Filho to stand so he can line up a kick to the side. Filho is fired up, and instead of taking more punishment, he dishes it out and tags Barez. Barez is surprised, and he gathers his thoughts and smashes Filho in the dome with a right hand. Filho shakes it out and swings back with bad intentions, and in the middle of a furious exchange, he times a perfect takedown to deposit the surging Spaniard to the canvas. Filho meanders into the guard, passing to half guard fairly easily while putting his right arm behind the neck. Filho sets up an arm-triangle choke and moves to full mount, and he transitions straight to the side to complete the submission. With his shoulder pressure tight and Filho going nowhere, it is only a matter of time at this point. Barez thinks about what to do next, and his sole remaining option is to tap out before he drifts off to dreamland. When Goddard steps in, Filho has successfully completed the comeback after a wild three-plus minutes of action. The time of the stoppage is announced at 1:34 of the first round, but this is not the case, as there was instead 1:34 left in the opening frame.

The Official Result

Jafel Filho def. Daniel Barez R1 3:26 via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke)

Shauna Bannon (115) vs. Bruna Brasil (115)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Brasil (-150), Bannon (+130)

Round 1

The lone fighter from Ireland on the lengthy billing will make her company debut low on the undercard, as unbeaten “Mama B” Bannon (5-0, 0-0 UFC) tries to get the British Isles on the board early. She will collide with a Brazilian strawweight whose name is actually Brasil (8-3-1, 0-1 UFC), and not a nickname the likes of “Paulo Shogun” or “Thiago Vampiro” from days past. The ladies do not touch ‘em up before the watchful eyes of referee Dan Movahedi. Bannon starts off with a leg kick, and Brasil gives one right back to her just the same. Brasil sprints forward suddenly to rip the body with a kick, and she slips on the way out. The Brazilian gathers herself and loads up on a right hand, and Bannon shakes it out and pushes out a jab. Brasil stands firm and pops her with a left hook, and she beats Bannon to the punch with another few quick punches. The Dubliner whiffs on an axe kick, and she comes up short on a wide overhand right. Brasil crashes the pocket swinging her fists, and “Mama B” is able to skirt out of the way but cannot avoid the sweeping low kick at the end. Brasil whips a high kick that comes up over the guard and smacks Bannon in the face. Bannon steels herself and charges forward, but Brasil is able to evade her oncoming attack and get out of harm’s way. Brasil fakes a spin and loads up on a pair of leg kicks, and the second draws a reaction out of her opponent. Brasil shrugs off a step-in high kick that slaps into her cheek, and she strafes when Bannon charges with a flurry of punches. Bannon pushes out with a body kick, and Brasil swings with a haymaker and glances off the side of Bannon’s head. Brasil’s left hand down the pipe busts up the nose of the undefeated fighter, and she snipes a charging Bannon with a short left hook. Bannon misses with a head kick and then one down low, and her kicks are largely missing the mark. Brasil winds up with a big right hand, and it bounces off the shoulder as she then leans back from a head kick. Bannon pushes off the chest with the ball of her foot, and Brasil is out of the way when Bannon attempts another axe kick. Brasil backs her off with a head kick try, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Brasil
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Brasil
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Brasil

Round 2

Bannon is a woman on a mission leaving her corner, hopping forward to fire off a side kick right when the round begins. Brasil easily evades it and ignores the traditional martial arts-style movement of her adversary, instead chambering an overhand right and smacking Bannon with it. Bannon tries to keep a safe distance with front kicks and side kicks, and Brasil is the one who continues moving actively to not let most of the blows reach her. Bannon presses forward into the clinch, and after holding on, Brasil is able to turn her around and knee her up the middle. Bannon hunts for trips, but the Brazilian woman is easily able to stifle them and muscle her into the wire. Movahedi asks for them to do more when they are locked up together, leading Bannon to fishing for a trip. Bannon redoubles her effort, and Brasil nearly succeeds in hitting a reversal. At the last second, the Irishwoman is able to keep her balance, and she drives her knee to the body. Movahedi splits them up, and Bannon sprints at Brasil and belts her with a huge right hand. Brasil counters effectively with a left hook, and Bannon is the one reaching her with a jab and a side kick. Brasil replies with a right hand, but Bannon is spamming front kicks and quick high kicks. Bannon backpedals to dodge a looping right hand, and she loads up with one of her own to tag Brasil. Both ladies swing for the bleachers, and they proceed to miss the mark. Brasil jumps and spins with a back kick that collides with the liver, and she keeps her momentum going by spinning with a back fist that whacks Bannon in the face. With Bannon reeling from the two blows, Brasil runs at her and tackles her to the canvas. Brasil moves right into half guard, where she grinds her elbow on the face of Bannon until the round concludes.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Brasil
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Brasil
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Brasil

Round 3

Like the last round, Bannon opens up with side kicks right out of the gate. Brasil is quick to get on her bike, making sure the biggest kicks from Bannon do not find their target. Bannon comes up short with a spinning wheel kick, and Brasil counters her with a few punches. Bannon strings together a one-two, and she chains an axe kick into it. Brasil catches the leg and dumps her foe to the floor, where she slams her shin into Bannon’s lower leg down on the floor. Bannon springs back up and gets back into her kickfighting game, using her foot as a jab. The axe kicks keep coming, but Brasil does not bite on many of them. Brasil is more composed and throwing standard strikes, and Bannon settles down and lets her hands go. Brasil gets tagged with a few punches and shakes her head, and Bannon is psyched up as she bounces in and out of range to land. Brasil whiffs on a step-in left hook, and Bannon is able to dodge her and bust her in the chops with a right hand. Brasil stumbles back, and before Bannon can capitalize, the Brazilian races forward to tie her up and potentially go after a takedown. Bannon stonewalls her and jams her up against the fence, and Brasil turns her about. Brasil sneaks up a few knees and tries to tangle Bannon’s legs up for a trip. Bannon uses her right hand to bop Brasil in the mouth several times, and when she opens her fist to start landing short palm strikes, Brasil trips her up and throws her to the mat. Brasil lands and claims three-quarter mount, and she hammers Bannon with a right hand. Brasil drops down a heavy elbow, and Bannon snatches that arm up in pursuit of an armbar. The final horn sounds before anything can come from it, and the two ladies have gone to the judges.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Bannon (29-28 Brasil)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Bannon (29-28 Brasil)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Bannon (29-28 Brasil)

The Official Result

Bruna Brasil def. Shauna Bannon via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Yanal Ashmoz (155) vs. Chris Duncan (156)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Duncan (-140), Ashmoz (+120)

Round 1

If the loud London fans were thirsting for another finish, they need to look no further than this lightweight affair between Scotland native Duncan (10-1, 1-0 UFC) and undefeated “Red Fox” Ashmoz (7-0, 1-0 UFC). Of their 17 pro wins, the two men have involved the judges just three times, so referee Loic Pora needs to be on his guard here. There is a sporting fist bump to get things going, and Ashmoz introduces himself with a spinning wheel kick. Duncan lifts his guard up to swat it away, and he tempers his expectations to advance when Ashmoz pushes out with a potential front kick. Duncan steps in with an overhand right, and Ashmoz blocks it and settles down to kick the lead leg. Duncan rips a kick to the body, and he follows up with a high kick that bounces off the guard. Ashmoz loads up on a right hand that glances off the shoulder, and Duncan shrugs it off and jumps at him with a switch kick. When that is blocked, the Scottish fighter steps in with a head kick that similarly glances off the guard. Duncan slaps a kick off the thigh, and he walks into a quick, short left hook. Duncan backs off when Ashmoz wings a right hand at him, and he sits down on a crisp uppercut that shakes the undefeated fighter. Duncan aims a high kick and digs a left to the body, and Ashmoz takes it and misses on the counter. Ashmoz paws out with a front kick, and the two fighters come up short on big kicks aimed at the other. Duncan crowds his man with a few punches, and Ashmoz shells up and clashes shins with his opponent via simultaneous leg kicks. Ashmoz misses the mark with a swinging head kick, and Duncan fails as well. Ashmoz shoots in for a double-leg takedown, and Duncan stops it in its tracks and snaps the head back with a right hand. Ashmoz gathers his thoughts and charges forward, cracking Duncan with a combination. Duncan drops his hands and dances back, and he cannot avoid a leg kick on the way out. Duncan jabs, steps in with a knee and throws two punches. Ashmoz looks for a head kick up close, and Duncan tackles him to the floor. The round ends before anything can come from it, and Ashmoz gets back to his feet and clutches his left wrist awkwardly.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Duncan
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Duncan
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Duncan

Round 2

The lightweights touch ‘em up to start off the second round, and Duncan engages with a stern kick to the ribcage. Duncan jumps in with a knee, and Ashmoz bounces off the fence and absorbs a hefty leg kick. Ashmoz spins around, and Duncan offers him a glove touch after landing the solid blow. Duncan again works the body with the instep of his foot, and he surges forward and knees Ashmoz in the chest. Duncan strings punches to the body, and Ashmoz surges into action throwing fists. Ashmoz wings a high kick that grazes off the head, and Duncan breathes a sigh of relief after not getting tagged by it. Duncan marches forward, spinning with back kicks, and Ashmoz counters him with a right hand that busts the Scotsman’s nose open. Duncan lets go with a low kick, and he absorbs a flush overhand right. Ashmoz leans over and boots Duncan in the face, and Duncan dodges the second attempt as he marches in. Ashmoz looses a huge right hand, and Duncan ignores it and knees Ashmoz straight on the jaw. Ashmoz spins with a wheel kick, and Duncan circles right into it and it shakes him up even though his guard is raised. Duncan takes a clean right hand off the temple, and Ashmoz follows after it with a body kick. Duncan replies with a similar blow, and he drills Ashmoz with a head kick. Ashmoz steps in with his own high kick, with his red beard like granite, and he takes everything Duncan dishes out and gives it back. Duncan hops forward and reaches out with a left hook, and he spins with a back kick that glances off the chest. Ashmoz ricochets off the cage wall and jumps into action with his right hook and left head kick. Duncan blocks them and shoots in for a takedown, and Ashmoz shuts it down. Duncan snaps the head back with a jab, and Ashmoz jumps with a knee and slips when it does not land. Duncan lets him up, and they throw hands to the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Duncan
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Duncan
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Duncan

Round 3

The last round opens up with the two hugging, and Ashmoz is amped up and ready to throw kicks one after the other. Duncan rocks his man with an impressively diverse combination of punches, and Ashmoz is rattled and still hanging in there. Duncan kicks the left side on the damaged arm, and he marches forward, brimming with confidence, and he elbows Ashmoz flush on the chin. Duncan nails him with a knee and puts several strikes on him, and Ashmoz grits it out and cannot even block strikes with his left arm. Ashmoz swings back with his right hand and several kicks, but Duncan is able to see them coming and bloody Ashmoz up with his striking barrages. Ashmoz stays with his back to the wall, and Duncan tees off on him without worry of reprisal. Even with Ashmoz throwing back with everything he has, Duncan is able to shuck and move, while pressuring him and using a variety of strikes to keep Ashmoz guessing. Duncan goes to the body instead of up high, and he knees Ashmoz right on the chin when Ashmoz bends over. Duncan races forward throwing hands, and Ashmoz ducks properly. Ashmoz leans down into a knee, and this takes the wind out of his sails. Duncan smashes his foe on the chops with vicious right hands, and Ashmoz takes them cleanly and bounces off the wall. “The Problem” gives Ashmoz one more problem to deal with, shoot in low for a double-leg entry and putting the Israeli fighter down to the floor. Ashmoz scampers back to his feet, and Duncan elevates him but cannot secure the mat return. The two split apart with 30 seconds to spare, and Duncan strides forward fearlessly. Ashmoz times a flying knee that surprises Duncan, who needs a moment before coming at him more. Duncan empties his gas tank with a few kicks and winging punches, and the slugfest comes to a conclusion. The UK is now almost certainly on the board tonight with the likely victory for the Scottish fighter.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Duncan (30-27 Duncan)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Duncan (30-27 Duncan)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Duncan (30-27 Duncan)

The Official Result

Chris Duncan def. Yanal Ashmoz via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Pannie Kianzad (136) vs. Ketlen Vieira (135)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Vieira (-150), Kianzad (+130)

Round 1

The fight with arguably the greatest title implications tonight is buried in the middle of the prelims, as the women’s bantamweight division is still championless and the perceived “uncrowned queen” of Holly Holm was knocked down a peg last week. Both women on the outside of the UFC’s top five looking in, Vieira (13-3, 7-3 UFC) and Kianzad (16-6, 5-3 UFC) will engage in a crucial contest at 135 pounds. With neither woman sporting a stoppage rate over 50%, referee Jason Herzog could be in it for the long haul here. Vieira offers a glove touch, but Kianzad wants nothing to do with it. Instead, Kianzad races forward pushing out straight punches down the middle. Vieira dodges back and reaches out with a heavy right hand, and Kianzad is out of the way in time. Vieira sticks out a jab, and Kianzad catches her with a left hand and a right over the top. Kianzad pokes out a jab, and she follows with a left hook that bounces off the guard. Vieira shoots in for a low single-leg takedown, and she lifts Kianzad’s leg up and throws her down to land right in side control. Kianzad recovers to half guard when Vieira sets up an arm-triangle choke, and the Brazilian still has her left arm hooked around the head of her opponent. Vieira looks to isolate Kianzad’s left arm for a potential armlock, and Kianzad turns to her side to stop it from coming together. Vieira powers her back over with shoulder pressure, smothering “Banzai” and returning her flat to her back. Kianzad gets back to a guard and she sets up butterfly hooks to push off, and this allows Vieira to punch her square in the face. Kianzad responds with a few strikes off her back, but the ones she absorbs from “Fenomeno” are far heavier. Kianzad looks to push off the midsection, but Vieira stays heavy as a ton of bricks and steps into the half guard. Vieira controls her adversary and presses her shoulder into Kianzad’s face and neck, and frustrating the Swede. Vieira grabs hold of the left arm and isolates it to grip for a kimura, and Kianzad protects herself by putting it under her back. As Vieira shifts to north-south position, the bell rings.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vieira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vieira
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Vieira

Round 2

The ladies meet in the middle of the cage, and Kianzad leads off with a looping left hook. Vieira blocks it and replies in kind, and the strike from the Brazilian glances off the raised guard. When Kianzad kicks low, Vieira gives her three punches over the top. Kianzad steps in to punch, and Vieira snatches up the lead leg and easily throws Kianzad to the canvas. Vieira goes right to half guard, and a desperate Kianzad is able to pull her into her guard and closes it up. Kianzad times a moment in transition to push her foot off Vieira’s body, but Vieira is able to casually shift back over the half guard. Vieira starts hunting for a kimura, and Kianzad defends it but starts taking heavy body shots. Vieira gloms onto her, and she hops into full mount and quickly locks down an arm-triangle choke. Vieira squeezes with her full body weight, and Kianzad defends it with her left arm between the grip of her opponent and her own neck. Kianzad turns the proper way to protect her neck, and Vieira abandons the submission. Kianzad explodes to her side, and she attempts to turn over and get to her knees so she can get back up. Vieira bowls her over and puts her on her back again. With 30 seconds remaining, Vieira tries to lock down an arm-triangle choke on the other side, but Kianzad is wise to it and is not in submission danger. The round ends with Vieira on top.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vieira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vieira
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Vieira

Round 3

A fire seemingly lit under her backside, Kianzad springs right into action, rushing at Vieira with punches in bunches. When Kianzad overextends on a left hook, Vieira smartly changes levels, coming up with a clean double-leg takedown to put Kianzad on her back 15 seconds into the final frame. Kianzad does everything she can to scoot her way to the wall, and this gives up her back in the process. Vieira leans with her back against the fencing, holding onto Kianzad from behind and sliding her hooks in. The leverage for any submission is not there, until she turns to lower herself to the floor. Vieira sets up a rear-naked choke, and Kianzad hand-fights to save herself from getting tapped. When Kianzad thwarts the choke, Vieira locks up a body triangle to further make Kianzad’s life miserable. Kianzad is able to defend from the choke setups, and she grits her teeth and spins around to secure top position with about two minutes left in the fight. Kianzad opens up with punches when she winds up on top, and Vieira clings to her to shut down the offense. Kianzad frees herself and stands up, and she jumps down to nail Vieira with a diving right hand. As Kianzad does damage from the guard, the commentary team starts discussing people walking their cats in strollers. All the while, Kianzad is doing anything she can to hunt for a finish, flailing with punches and hammerfists. Vieira pushes off with the ball of her foot, and she smacks Kianzad in the face with one illegally. Herzog checks on Kianzad, who says she is fine and wants to keep going. Kianzad rains down punches to any target, marking up Vieira’s right eye, and swinging frantically. Vieira throws her legs up high for a triangle choke, and she simultaneously grips an armbar, and the horn blares.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vieira (30-27 Vieira)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vieira (30-27 Vieira)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Vieira (30-27 Vieira)

The Official Result

Ketlen Vieira def. Pannie Kianzad via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Bryan Barberena (185) vs. Makhmud Muradov (186)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Muradov (-315), Barberena (+245)

Round 1

Despite what some may think, this next contest does feature a fighter who is relatively local to the area. Although he was born in Tajikistan and is a current citizen of Uzbekistan, Muradov (25-8, 3-2 UFC) primarily trains and resides in the Czech Republic. His swing first, ask questions later opponent of Barberena (18-10, 9-8 UFC) does not live relatively close, as he is from across the pond over in Minnesota. The latter is moving up in weight to face a sturdy middleweight in Muradov, so referee Marc Goddard will be on call for as long as the two strikers are able to trade blows. Before they do so, there is a cage door malfunction that delays the action. When that is concluded, they bump fists. Barberena swings his way into engage, and he walks into a body kick. Barberena kicks low, and he takes a foot the sternum. Muradov crashes forward in pursuit of a double-leg takedown, and when he transitions to a single, he puts Barberena down to the canvas for a moment. Barberena explodes back up, and Muradov successfully hits a mat return. Barberena sits up, and Muradov welcomes this so he can take his back. Muradov attempts to get his hook in, and he lifts Barberena up and slams him down. Barberena leans his back to the cage wall with his seat on the floor, and he tries with all his might to stand up. Muradov ignores short punches from “Bam Bam,” and Barberena pushes off and breaks free to land a right hook. Barberena whiffs with a leg kick, and he watches a head kick sail past him. Barberena works the lead leg with a kick, and he is evasive to not eat the right hands coming from Muradov. Barberena gets countered on the way in with a left hook, and Barberena nods at him and rushes at him with a leg kick. Muradov snatches up a second kick, and he uses the level change to catch Barberena flush with an uppercut. Muradov splits the guard with a right hand and tackles Barberena to the floor. Barberena scoots his way to the fencing and gets to a knee, and Muradov grabs him from behind. Barberena works his way back to his feet, and the two trade hands right on the break. Muradov absorbs a clean leg kick to counter with a right hand, and he rips the body with a kick. Barberena takes a flying knee and a right hand on the chin, and the round ends as Barberena slaps it to signal Muradov to bring it on.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muradov
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muradov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Muradov

Round 2

The middleweights clap hands to get going, and Barberena starts things off with a leg kick. Muradov gives him one back, and Barberena is there in front of him chipping at it. Muradov blasts Barberena in the face with a straight right hand, and this shakes him right to his core as he bounces off the fence and then starts laughing. Muradov lets him do this to put another right on the chin, and Barberena is not smiling. Muradov nails the body with a kick, and Barberena turns around to escape and absorbs two punches to the side and back of the head. This is no fault of Muradov, for Barberena turned his head. Barberena plummets to the floor face-first, and Goddard thinks about stepping in. Goddard does not, and Barberena scrambles as Muradov leaps in the air at him dropping down fierce hammerfists. Barberena gathers his thoughts and powers his way back up, and Muradov does not fall into the trap of burning himself out looking for a finish. Barberena charges, and he starts talking to his foe when absorbing powerful, stunning strikes. Muradov pierces the guard with solid right hands, hurting Barberena but not putting him down. Barberena meanders forward, relying heavily on his chin, and he swarms forward but misses the mark. Muradov eats a right hand, and he does not this, changing levels suddenly and taking Barberena down. Barberena jumps back up, and Muradov brings him back to his knees. Once more, Barberena is able to get up, only for his efforts to be thwarted when Muradov wrenches him to the mat. Muradov keeps his full body weight imposed on the tough Barberena, and Barberena leans forward on the cage and grips a defensive kimura to threaten from his back. Muradov slides his arm out, and when he lowers himself down, he headbutts Barberena in the temple. Goddard sees it and calls it an accidental clash of heads, and after 30 seconds of recovery for Barberena, Goddard restarts them in the same position. Barberena stands by using all of his energy, and Muradov slings him back to the floor with emphasis. The round ends with Muradov on top, as Barberena clings to a kimura off his back.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muradov
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muradov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Muradov

Round 3

The middleweights clap hands to start the final round, and Barberena is the aggressor but is not throwing strikes. Muradov stays moving from side to side, and Barberena swings two punches at him only to get driven back with a straight right hand. Muradov paws out a jab, and he blasts the body with his shin. Barberena kicks lazily, and Muradov grabs the leg in the air, scores a straight right hand and takes Barberena off his feet. Barberena stands up, and he threatens with a standing arm-triangle choke. Muradov breaks off and drills him with a right hand and a head kick, and Barberena blinks hard as he might have taken an eye poke in an exchange. Muradov sees the opening and batters the body with a kick, and he backs off to reset. Barberena comes out throwing, and he lands a leg kick and a left hand that shakes up Muradov. Muradov gathers a full head of steam and drives his right hand through Barberena – figuratively – and sends Barberena crashing to the mat. Muradov allows Barberena to stand so he can measure and fire a nasty body kick. Barberena lumbers forward, walking into punches to the head and body, and he signals to Muradov that he is still very much in it. Barberena sneaks in an uppercut when they close in, and he swings for the fences and misses the mark. Muradov tries for a takedown, and when that fails, he lifts up a knee that bloodies up Barberena’s nose. Barberena swings with a left hook and follows with a leg kick, and he eats a clean right hand that hurts him. Stunned, “Bam Bam” drops down to go after a takedown, and Muradov ducks down at the same time to stop it. This results in a violent clash of heads, with both men clanging the tops of their heads together. Both men drop to their knees and clutch their heads, in serious pain. Goddard calls in two doctors to check on both fighters, and both men are cleared after 75 seconds of painful-looking recovery time. Barberena, after a brief lull, surges into action. Swinging with all his might, Barberena lays into Muradov, and Muradov counters with a perfectly timed takedown. Barberena scoots his way up to his feet, and he eats a body kick on the way up. Barberena flails punches, and the two swing it out with fists, feet, and even one last takedown try from Muradov, as the fight ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muradov (30-27 Muradov)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muradov (30-27 Muradov)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Muradov (30-27 Muradov)

The Official Result

Makhmud Muradov def. Bryan Barberena via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Michael Parkin (264) vs. Jamal Pogues (266)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Pogues (-155), Parkin (+135)

Round 1

Perhaps because the main attraction comes at heavyweight, the unranked slobberknocker on the billing between two big men is relegated to the lengthy preliminary slate. Sporting an unblemished record with all of his pro wins occurring before the third round, Parkin (6-0, 0-0 UFC) would like nothing more than to take Pogues (10-3, 1-0 UFC) behind the woodshed and handle things quickly. The structural integrity of the Octagon will be tested by this 520-pound slugfest, not counting referee Loic Pora. Opening with a glove touch, the offense begins with alternating jab offerings from either man that are off-target. Parkin gets off a quick leg kick, and he pops off another before Pogues can do anything about it. Parkin slips a jab to fire a right hand over the top, and Pogues revs up his engines and starts chipping at the Brit’s calf. The two continue working on the lead leg of the other in alternating fashion, while largely staying out of punching range. Parkin lands one significantly, spurring Pogues into action with a few heavy punches. Parkin swats them aside and keeps pecking at the lead wheel, all while not allowing Pogues to reach him with his fists. Pogues triples up on his jab, and Parkin snaps the head back with his own. The calves are taking a beating in the first two minutes thus far, and jabs are starting to mount. Parkin jabs to the head and body, and he intercepts an advancing Pogues with his strikes. Parkin puts his hips into one leg kick, and he connects with a solid right hook that surprises Pogues. The British fighter kicks to fluster his opponent, who charges him like a bull and pursues a takedown. “Mick” shuts it down and backs Pogues off with an elbow. Pogues ducks into an uppercut, and he tries to take the fight down only for Parkin to shut him down. Parkin knocks him back with a right hand and a left hook, and Pogues tries and fails to reach him in response. Pogues steps in with two jabs and a right, and Parkin’s nose reddens from the absorbed blows. Parkin gives him jabs back, and he shells up when Pogues turns up the heat with stiffer strikes. Parkin stays elusive enough to avoid the brunt of the strikes, and the two heavyweights hand-fight to the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Parkin
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Parkin
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Parkin

Round 2

The burly gentlemen pick up right where they left off, clapping hands and then jabbing and chaining leg kicks together. After a few of these such exchanges, Pogues bullies his way forward with swinging fists and changes levels to go after a single-leg takedown. Pogues lifts his foe’s leg in the air, and Parkin stops this and marks Pogues up with short punches. Pogues replies with an elbow before leaning heavily on his man, and Parkin escapes out the side and hammers the calf with a kick. Parkin’s calf kick is doing some damage, as Pogues does not appreciate getting kicked in the same spot again and again. Parkin’s offense is largely relegated to either jabs or these kicks, and he backs Pogues up to the wall. When Pogues comes at him, Parkin whacks the calf, tripping Pogues up momentarily. Parkin is able to stay at cruising altitude, largely unchallenged by Pogues, as Pogues is out of range from his swiping strikes. Parkin pushes out with multiple right hands to the body, and Pogues grits his teeth and changes stances to press ahead. When Pogues does this, Parkin starts working on the other front leg. The two hand-fight to get in, and Pogues ducks down for a level change only to get lifted back up with Parkin’s fists. Parkin clatters his leg off the calf of his opponent, and he rings Pogues’ bell with a right hand over the top. Pogues’ offense has fallen off a cliff, other than the occasional jab or something that is well short of the intended target. The two shadowbox with one another until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Parkin
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Parkin
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Parkin

Round 3

There is a touch of gloves to begin the final frame, and Parkin begins peppering Pogues with low kicks and jabs. Pogues is fighting out of southpaw, allowing Parkin to really turn his hips into his kicks. Pogues backs up against the fence and eats jabs, body shots and calf kicks. Pogues limps at him, and he offers a high five when taking a particularly heavy one. The commentary booth starts discussing the apparel choices of members in the crowd during this heavyweight sparring match, as the pace continues the same way. Parkin occasionally puts a little more horsepower into a right hand after a jab, bouncing Pogues off the wall. Parkin compromises Pogues’ left leg when Pogues comes back to orthodox stance, and he beats down on Pogues’ right leg when the stance switch comes. Parkin styles on Pogues without any fear of reprisal, as Pogues has almost completely shut down. Parkin pokes and prods with jabs and leg kicks, and Pogues is limping slightly on both lower limbs. The jab clinic continues for the British fighter, who has fought longer in this outing than any of his previous matches. Parkin flicks out jabs and shakes Pogues up with a stern right hand, and his left that follows gets Pogues’ further attention. Parkin is in his groove, sliding away from the rare jab that Pogues offers back, but it is one-way traffic at this point. Pogues clinches his man up, but he does nothing more than holding on before Parkin pushes him away. Parkin unloads with seconds to spare, winging a few overhand rights, and Pogues eats them like fist-sized steaks before the final horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Parkin (30-27 Parkin)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Parkin (30-27 Parkin)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Parkin (30-27 Parkin)

The Official Result

Michael Parkin def. Jamal Pogues via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Joel Alvarez (156) vs. Marc Diakiese (156)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Alvarez (-190), Diakiese (+160)

Round 1

Although this next lightweight pairing might be described as a potential brawl, neither Diakiese (16-6, 7-6 UFC) nor Alvarez (19-3, 4-2 UFC) make their bread off of being knockout artists. Instead, their grappling has been arguably their best attributes, so this could turn into a wild affair that ends up going everywhere. Keeping tabs on this fight will be referee Dan Movahedi, one that opens up with a fist bump from the 155ers. The two are amped up to engage, and the first strike offered is a low kick from Diakiese. When he misses, he resets and reaches his target with a second. Alvarez brings up a high knee when Diakiese comes at him, and he fires off a kick to the knee sleeve of his opponent and catches the Brit with a right hand. Diakiese goes down low with a kick, and he uses his other leg to kick the body. They crash together throwing fierce fists, and both catch the other with one punch and back off to take quick counts of their teeth. Diakiese chains a low kick into a spinning back kick, and Alvarez bounces off the cage wall and gets back to striking range. Alvarez springs into action with a calf kick and a right hand, and they measure one another with jabs to follow. Alvarez steps in with a knee, and Diakiese throws everything he has into a right hand that opens a cut on the cheek of his opponent. Diakiese spins with a back fist, and Alvarez ducks it and catches him with a right hand that staggers the mohawk-sporting fighter momentarily. Diakiese swings for the bleachers with a right hand, and Alvarez dodges it and absorbs a flush leg kick so he can counter with a head kick. Alvarez chambers and looses a hard leg kick, and he beats Diakiese to the punch with a check left hook as Diakiese winds up on a power punch. Alvarez pushes off with a front kick, and he gets wobbled when swinging too hard with a haymaker while Diakiese counters him. Diakiese lets him settle down and gives chase to line up a right hook and a spinning back kick, and Alvarez runs at him with two fists and a leg kick. Alvarez spins with a high kick, ducks a spinning back fist, takes Diakiese’s back and looks for a trip. Diakiese leans himself against the cage to keep himself upright, and Alvarez succeeds in tripping him out. Diakiese reverses him to end up on top, and he scores an elbow and a few body shots before the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Alvarez
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Alvarez
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Alvarez

Round 2

The lightweights briefly tap their gloves together, but Diakiese is more interested in coming out firing. Alvarez pays close attention, and he watches Diakiese sail past him with a spinning wheel kick. When Diakiese gets his balance again, he changes levels and secures a takedown to put the Spaniard on his back. Alvarez scrambles to put himself close to the wall, and Diakiese is comfortable inside of the guard softening Alvarez up with short strikes. Alvarez looks to turn to the side or potentially set up something off his back, and Diakiese stays heavy and tightly pressed to his man to prevent anything from coming together. Diakiese embraces the grind, focusing more on position rather than offense. Alvarez decides to stop looking for some submission off his back, and he wall-walks to stand back up. Diakiese strips out his legs and puts him down to his back again. Alvarez uses upkicks to stop Diakiese from lowering himself down, and Diakiese shoots down low and gets turned around by the Spanish fighter. With “The Bonecrusher” turning to his knees, Alvarez opens up with punches to the side of the head. Alvarez is warned for strikes to the back of the head, and Diakiese turns to his back and suddenly explodes up to his feet. Alvarez races forward to attack, and his head bounces off Diakiese’s. Diakiese clutches the side of his head, signaling to Movahedi that he absorbed a foul. Movahedi tells them to fight on, and Alvarez unloads with several knees to the body and ferocious fists. Diakiese desperately drops down to pursue a takedown, and Alvarez welcomes this as he follows Diakiese down and isolates the neck. “El Fenomeno” slides his arm beneath the chin and his other under the armpit to lock down a brabo choke, and he has it tight. Diakiese rolls to his back, and Alvarez moves to lower his full body weight down to complete the submission. With Diakiese still rocked by the head clash, he does not have the sense to fight the choke, and he taps out. This is an unfortunate situation for Diakiese, as Movahedi missed the clash of heads with Alvarez’ forehead slamming into the side of Diakiese’s head behind the ear. As the official announcement is read, it is unclear if the result will be under review at this time. Diakiese is still wobbled from the foul when Movahedi raises Alvarez’ victorious arm, and he almost falls over and has to be caught by one of his cornermen so he does not crash and burn. The official result is a submission, but it might not remain as such should it get reviewed or appealed.

The Official Result

Joel Alvarez def. Marc Diakiese R2 4:26 via Submission (Brabo Choke)

Jonny Parsons (171) vs. Danny Roberts (171)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Parsons (-110), Roberts (-110)

Round 1

Strikers by trade, the well-experienced Roberts (18-7, 7-6 UFC) is set to meet hard-charging, magnificently mulleted Parsons (8-3, 0-0 UFC) in the center of the cage next. The welterweights celebrate the lion’s share of their wins by knockout, but the most frequent method of victory against them is also to knock them out. Because of this, referee Jason Herzog has charged his batteries and is ready to step in at a moment’s notice. There is an offered but not accepted glove touch, and it’s off to the races. They both miss on big kicks early to draw wows out of the crowd, and Parsons works his way in early with a left hand and a leg kick. Roberts springs away and grins, pawing out jabs and sneaking up a head kick. Parsons pushes the head down when Roberts crashes the pocket, and Roberts backs away and levies a leg kick that gets checked. Roberts blocks a head kick, and he steps in with a solid left hand. Parsons kicks low, and he checks the counter. Roberts puts a left hand down the pipe, and he keeps his guard up to defend from two high kicks in rapid succession. The Brit slams his shin to the waist, and he puts two more on the same target before Parsons gets frustrated and responds with one. Roberts smiles and sticks out his right hand, and he digs his left to the liver. Roberts lets loose a left hook, turning towards a body kick on the way, and he slides away and takes a leg kick. Parsons whiffs on a big right hand, and his mullet waves majestically behind him. Roberts slams his shim on the midsection, and Parsons toughs it out and tries to crowd his man. Roberts catches him with a straight left hand, and Parsons parries the subsequent strikes as they close in. Parsons again misses the mark with a haymaker, and he puts his shin on the midsection and nails Roberts with a right hand. Roberts is excited by this striking contest, and he again smiles and trades kicks with his foe. Parsons delivers a kick to the ribs, and one up high slides off the guard. Roberts gets in a left hook, and he gets off a few punches and eats a body kick on the way out. Parsons stands him up with a straight knee and a right hand, and this draws Roberts into a brawl. Roberts catches Parsons flush, sticking him with punches and rolling. The two throw big hands, and the Brit connects with three heavy blows right before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Roberts
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Roberts
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Roberts

Round 2

The welterweights meet in the middle of the cage and measure one another for the first 10 seconds, and Parsons suddenly releases a body kick, one to the head, and a third back to the ribs. Roberts closes the distance, and Parsons turns him around and pressures him to the fence and lets go with an elbow. Roberts breaks off with his own left hand, and he swats away a front kick while resetting. Roberts pierces the guard with a left hand, and Parsons protects himself from the subsequent strikes. As Parsons lifts his leg to kick, Roberts sprints at him and grabs it to go after a takedown. Parsons shuts it down and elbows Roberts flush, and Roberts grins and comes out throwing up to the head and body. Parsons gathers his thoughts and digs a right to the body, but Roberts is the one able to return fire with a few back. As they swing at the same time, Parsons dings the British fighter with a straight right hand that shocks Roberts. Roberts does not realize the damage until he takes a step back, and he loses his balance and falls over. Parsons races after him, pursuing the finish, and he winds up taking top position and looking to isolate an arm. Parsons moves to mount, and Roberts scrambles wildly and gets back up. Roberts is fired up, and he lets go with his hands, throwing everything he has into a long but largely inaccurate series of punches. Parsons lets him do this so he can counter, and he rocks Roberts with heavy right hands. Parsons strides forward, kneeing Roberts in the face and opening up with a number of fierce fists. Roberts slings back with a vengeance, and Persons loves this kind of trading, obliging him every step of the way. Roberts, wobbled and hurt, still manages to throw heavy leather. Roberts’ hands are down, and he aims body shots and hurts Parsons with a combination. Parsons sits down on a left hand, dropping Roberts to his knees after a wild brawl. Parsons leans on him and considers a submission, but Roberts fights out of it. When Roberts stands up, he is still hurt, but he does not care as he swings for the bleachers. Parsons lets him punch him in the face so he can counter and hurt Roberts worse, and he hits “Hot Chocolate” so hard that Roberts somersaults backwards from the damage. Parsons follows him down, blasting Roberts with one finalizing hammerfist behind the ear before Herzog jumps in. What a slugfest, and what a finish for the debuting Parsons in hostile territory. Embodying his nickname of “The Sluggernaut” to the fullest, Parsons battled it out and outbrawled the Brit.

The Official Result

Jonny Parsons def. Danny Roberts R2 4:57 via TKO (Punches)

Davey Grant (136) vs. Daniel Marcos (136)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Marcos (-140), Grant (+120)

Round 1

In the one corner, “Dangerous Davey” Grant (15-6, 6-5 UFC) stands firm, ready to represent his home country. In the other, lead-fisted and lead-kneed Peruvian Marcos (14-0, 1-0 UFC) puts his unblemished record on the line. Grant has only been defeated in the past via submission, while Marcos has never before forced a foe to tap out. Something’s gotta give in this newly minted bantamweight main card opener that could be a banger, and it begins with a glove touch. Referee Marc Goddard adjusts his gloves, pulls up his pants and sits back to observed the proceedings, and The two fighters come out to the middle of the cage to engage, and Grant goes first with a heavy leg kick. Grant walks down Marcos and kicks on the inside, and he throws one more to the outer calf. Marcos replies with one that sends Grant off-balance, but the Brit adjusts himself and continues coming forward. Grant pushes out a front kick, and he wings a right hand that slides off the top of the guard to bounce off Marcos’ temple. Marcos shrugs at him and kicks so hard on the calf that he takes Grant off his feet. Grant jumps back up and rips a kick to the ribs, and he checks a kick that comes his way. Grant turns an uppercut into a spinning back fist, and Marcos dances out of the way and keeps his guard up high to stop another strike from getting through. Grant comes out swinging, throwing a right hook that puts himself off-balance, and Marcos does not capitalize on it but is able to eat up Grant’s calf with another kick. Grant strides in with a side kick, and he jumps forward with a stomping kick to the knee. The unbeaten fighter ducks down and absorbs a side kick, and Grant then plants the ball of his foot on the chest to follow. Grant snipes out a left hook when Marcos advances, and he jumps forward with a knee that glances off his intended target. Grant counters a leg kick with a clean right hand, and he kicks the body and backs off when Marcos throws hands. Marcos walks “Dangerous Davey” down and kicks him in the chest, and Grant is able to time a right hand when Marcos loads up. Grant sweeps the leg as he comes forward, and he chains a calf kick into a head kick with the same leg. Marcos gives a body kick back, only for Grant to defend against it. Marcos reaches his man with a right hook, and Grant spins with a wheel kick that ricochets off the chest of his foe. Marcos rubs his chest, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Grant
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Grant
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Grant

Round 2

The 135ers bump fists before getting after it, and Grant spurs into action in a hurry with several kicks to multiple targets. Grant sprints and pulls back to draw a reaction, and he does this to clip Marcos with a short left hook. Grant aims a right hand when Marcos rushes at him with a jump knee, and Grant scampers away before it reaches him. Grant kicks the side and goes with a hook kick up high, and they proceed to throw fists at the same time. Marcos catches Grant with a solid right hand, and Grant gathers his thoughts and chips at the lead wheel of his foe. Grant punches his way into a combination that ends with a low kick, and he misses with a wheel kick as Marcos backs off. Grant nails a leg kick and wings a right hook over the top, and Marcos ignores it and tries to counter with a right hand. A few jabs from the Peruvian fighter have bloodied Grant’s nose up, and Grant pays it no mind as his offense is still as active as ever. Grant strings three hooks together and pushes off the chest with the ball of his foot when Marcos attempts to reply. Marcos swings as hard as he can with a right hand, and Grant ducks and nails Marcos with a front kick on the chin. Grant swings a high kick that grazes off the red hair of his opponent, and Marcos responds with two punches and a step-in kick that splits the uprights and slams square into Grant’s cup. Grant grimaces and bends over as Goddard calls time, and Grant tells Goddard he is good to go after about 45 seconds off. When restarting, Marcos offers an apologetic glove touch. Grant gets going again with a huge right hand, and he watches Marcos comes towards him and raise up a hook kick. Grant plants his shin on the lower calf of “Soncora,” and he steps in with an elbow. Grant trips on Marcos’ leg when spinning with a strike, and Marcos’ jabs are starting to bloody Grant up further. “Dangerous Davey” plants a dangerous right hand on the nose, and Marcos shakes his head and defends against the standing hook kick. Grant lets go with several punches and a side kick, and he gives chase as Marcos backpedals. The round ends with the lower part of Grant’s face covered in blood.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Grant
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Grant
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Grant

Round 3

Grant nods and winks at Marcos to lead off the last round, and the two hug it out before getting down to business. Marcos strikes first with a calf kick, and Grant strides forward and lets go with a spinning wheel kick. It only takes a jab or two from Marcos to bust up Grant’s nose again. Grant absorbs a jab and goes forward into a takedown. The unbeaten fighter stands him up, and the two fighters stand in the pocket and trade. Marcos backs off first, and Grant follows him down with a head kick, a front kick and a right hand. Grant puts three fists on Marcos before Marcos is able to land one. Marcos, out of nowhere, jumps at his man with a knee, and Grant takes it flush and keeps coming ever forward. Marcos waves his arms around, and Grant comes at him with a knee. Marcos swats him aside and strafes on the outside, and it is up to Grant to initiate the offense. Grant spins with a back fist, and then keeps spinning to throw other strikes. Marcos nods approvingly from the strikes, and he keeps backing off as Grant is pushing the pace. Grant walks through jabs to swing with far harder strikes, and one such blow comes in the form of a right to the body. Marcos jabs up his man, and Grant unloads with a right hand that bounces off the shoulder. Grant walks Marcos down, getting in a leg kick and a right hand, and Marcos tries to reply with a left hook that only slightly connects. Grant ducks a flailing fist to come in and land a straight right to the body, and a subsequent kick makes Marcos drops his guard and back off. Grant jumps with a knee, and when he misses and lands, Marcos greets him with a stern right hand down the pipe. Grant doggedly pursues his opponent, throwing everything and the kitchen sink at him. Marcos times a takedown out of nowhere, hitting it with ease. Grant frantically works his way up with the fence behind him, and he separates. Grant spins with a wheel kick that bounces off the shoulder, and he raise his arm to draw Marcos into a final brawl. Grant spams any kind of kick he can think of, all while Marcos backs away, until time expires.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Grant (30-27 Grant)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Grant (30-27 Grant)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Grant (30-27 Grant)

The Official Result

Daniel Marcos def. Davey Grant via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Joshua Culibao (146) vs. Lerone Murphy (146)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Murphy (-140), Culibao (+120)

Round 1

Continuing the main card is what should be an evenly matched, action-packed featherweight tilt pitting Britain’s own Murphy (12-0-1, 4-0-1 UFC) against fast-paced Aussie Culibao (11-1-1, 3-1-1 UFC). Both fighters went to draws in the UFC a few years ago, and neither has looked back ever since. One win streak is about to come to a screeching halt, and referee Loic Pora will be there for it every step of the way. The respect is ample as the 145-pounders tap their gloves together first, and Murphy takes to the center of the cage and strides out with a stomping kick down towards Culibao’s knee. Culibao lets fly a head kick to respond, and Murphy just avoids it and slaps the calf kick home. Murphy reaches out with a right hand to find his range, and he spins with a back kick and lands awkwardly. Culibao charges after him, popping him with a few short punches including a solid right hand. Murphy does not appreciate this blitz, and he grapples the Australian fighter and slows him down against the cage wall. Murphy drops down for a double, and he turns it into a single but cannot get that off either. Culibao knees him in the belly and spins out, and he resets in comfortable range. Murphy feints and fakes to draw reactions, and Culibao charges at him and throws hammers. Murphy counters effectively and ends his series of strikes with a leg kick. Culibao lets fly a leg kick, and he measures a head kick that surprises Murphy. The Brit races forward and slings two one-twos to no-sell the kick, and he keeps his guard high to block another. Murphy misses the mark with a whipping high kick, and Culibao walks him down and drills him with a straight right hand. Murphy rails his man with an uppercut, and Culibao takes a quick count of his teeth and backs off. Murphy ducks a one-two and ties him up, where he ends up pressing Culibao to the wire. Culibao escapes, but he eats a flush elbow on the way out. Culibao tries to pay it back and reaches out with a one-two, but Murphy is quicker than him and reaches out with a head kick and two swatting hooks. Murphy punches his way into a takedown try, and Culibao stops a double and fights off a single successfully as well. Murphy knees him from the side, and he lands two more punches as he lets go before the bell sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Murphy
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Murphy
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Murphy

Round 2

The two bump their fists together to say hello, and Murphy strikes first after it with a low calf kick. Culibao responds with a head kick, and Murphy leans and pops him in the chops with a left hook. Culibao changes things up and goes after his own takedown, and Murphy backs himself to the cage wall and turns Culibao around. Culibao drops to his knees to go after a double, and the undefeated fighter fights it off. Culibao sneaks an elbow up between them, and he wrenches Murphy to his knees. Murphy stands, breaks off and backs Culibao to the wall. Culibao gets caught in an exchange and looks surprised, allowing Murphy to crash the pocket and put him against the fence. Murphy breaks with an elbow, and Culibao times a crisp knee on the button. Murphy wobbles back, gets his bearings and chops at the lead calf. Murphy pump-fakes on several strikes to fluster Culibao, and he parries a punch to the body. Murphy walks into a left hand, and he gets shaken up and throws caution to the wind. As he lands on Culibao, he drags Culibao to the floor, and he moves around to takes his back and get a hook in. Culibao remains on one knee and hangs onto both of Murphy’s wrists to prevent him from advancing any further. Murphy turns the corner to get his other hook in, and he leans his back against the fence to secure the back control. Culibao does not appear remotely concerned, as he nods to his corner on the other side of the cage. Murphy is also listening to his cornermen, as he slowly, methodically works his grip and sneaks his arm around the chin. With Culibao controlling the other arm, the submission is not able to get locked in, so Murphy lets it go. Culibao starts talking to Murphy from this position, and they ride out the round in this position.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Murphy
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Murphy
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Murphy

Round 3

The gloves are touched presumably one last time to start off the last frame, and Culibao follows the touch with a few range-finding jabs. Culibao eats a body shot, and he comes forward only to absorb a flush elbow on the chin. Culibao fires back, and Murphy shoots in low for a takedown. Culibao threatens with a choke, lifts himself up and elbows Murphy before turning the tables for his own level change. Murphy staves it off and knees the Aussie in the chest, and he defends another attempt with elbows to the side of the head. Murphy escapes, and Culibao chases after him with a fierce elbow. Murphy stabs the sternum with a kick, and Culibao bends over and falls to his back in major pain. Murphy follows him down into the guard, where he swarms Culibao with ground-and-pound. Elbows ring off the dome, and Culibao tugs his feet off the fence to get better position and survive. Murphy allows his man to turn over so that he can take the back, and he gets a hook in and elbows Culibao hard. Murphy threatens with a rear-naked choke, and Culibao explodes to turn himself about. Murphy fastens his arms around the neck for an unexpected anaconda choke, and Culibao toughs it out, turns to his side and then back, and frees himself from the submission. Murphy readjusts his grip and slithers his left arm beneath the armpit, hunting now for a brabo choke. Culibao is tough as a two-dollar steak, as he not only fights off the submission but manages to burst up back to his feet. Murphy is quick to throw him back down, but Culibao is determined to stand. A defeating mat return from Murphy allows him to land on top, and he bludgeons Culibao with elbows and fists as Culibao turns anywhere he can in hopes of getting away. Culibao works his way to his feet, and it is a moral victory as he makes it all the way to the final bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Murphy (30-26 Murphy)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Murphy (30-27 Murphy)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Murphy (30-27 Murphy)

The Official Result

Lerone Murphy def. Joshua Culibao via Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-27)

Jai Herbert (155) vs. Fares Ziam (155)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Ziam (-155), Herbert (+135)

Round 1

Moving right along on this main card, two lightweights hovering around the .500 threshold in the UFC will come to blows. Looking to lift his record to that even mark, Herbert (12-4-1, 2-3-1 UFC) almost certainly wishes to turn this fight into a brawl. Kill Cliff FC rep Ziam (13-4, 3-2 UFC) should mind his P’s and Q’s in this one, as should referee Jason Herzog. Before the melee commences, the fighters touch gloves. Ziam claims the center of the cage, and he measures jabs only to get jabbed in response. Ziam plants a heavy leg kick down low early, and he sneaks out a body kick while getting countered. Herbert swipes out with a left hook, and he splits the guard with a jab. Ziam reaches his man with a body kick, and he skirts away when Herbert kicks him in the calf. Herbert chambers and fires another leg kick, and Ziam reacts poorly from it. Ziam steels himself and lunges with straight punches, and his straight left finds the target a few times. Herbert comes up short by a matter of inches with two looping hooks, but his leg kicks do hit the mark much to the dismay of the Frenchman. As they both try to swing hard at one another, their chests clap together and this results in a clinch. The corner of Herbert continues to shout “head position” like Tito Ortiz shouting for his fighter on “The Ultimate Fighter” to get up. As they jockey for position against the wall, they break off and end up clinched on the other side of the cage wall. Both men think about a potential level change, and this results in a positional stalemate of failed attempts. Herbert gets cracked with a short elbow as he tries to separate, and he walks Ziam down and puts a jab in his face. The French fighter responds in kind, and they proceed to let go with single strikes one after the other. Herbert lands a body kick, and Ziam clips him with a left hook. A front kick from Ziam punctuates the close round.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Herbert
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Herbert
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Herbert

Round 2

There is a brief fist bump to start off the round, and the two lightweights ply their trade with jabs. Herbert fires off a left hook in a series of punches, driving Ziam back to the fence. Herbert ups his output, laying into Ziam with strikes to the head and body. Herbert mixes things up with a leg kick, and he dodges a counter and plants his fist on Ziam’s forehead. The momentum from Herbert results in a clinch, but they break out of it and trade fists. Ziam lands the heavier of a strike with a right hand, but “The Black Country Banger” relishes this and wings a right hook back. Herbert again pushes into a clinch, and after a lull, Herbert pushes off and elbows Ziam in the face. Ziam pokes out several jabs, and he blocks a head kick as Herbert comes at him. Again, Herbert ties Ziam up, considering a takedown but unable to get it. Herbert knees the body several times, and Ziam decides to do the same. Ziam gains a full head of steam, and he is able to turn the tables on Herbert by taking him down with ease. Herbert hits a sweep, briefly puts Ziam on his back, and the two scramble back to their feet. Herbert returns to pressing his full weight on his opponent, and Ziam manages to eventually get out of the grip. Ziam knocks the advancing Herbert back with two punches, only to get popped by counters from the Brit. They trade punches, and Herbert jabs his way in and follows it with a head kick. When Herbert charges him, Ziam sneaks up an uppercut, and the grueling round ends in the clinch.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Herbert
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Ziam
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Herbert

Round 3

Coming into the last round, scores could be all over the map. They greet in the center of the cage spamming kicks, trading them one after the other fearlessly. Ziam throws the first punch, and Herbert leans back and kicks at him. Ziam sticks out a jab and takes one back on the chin, and he swipes out with a short hook. Ziam comes up shy of the mark with two big punches, and Herbert sits back and smacks him with a kick on either side of his calf. “Smile Killer” jabs and whips a left hook over the top, and the crowd is growing restless by the relative sparring match after a fairly lackluster event thus far. The fighters proceed to take turns striking at one another, and Ziam connects with a big leg kick that makes Herbert hobble back and shake his leg out. Ziam ends another combination with a thudding kick, and Herbert rushes towards him and ties him up before looking for a body lock takedown. The Frenchman keeps his balance and leans himself against the chain-link fencing, and he manages to turn himself around and stop Herbert from taking his back. Ziam counters with an inside trip, and they both topple to the ground for a second before jumping back up, locked together in a mean-spirited embrace. Ziam secures another trip, and once more Herbert falls over and gets back up. The two split up with 90 seconds to go in the fight, and neither man engages with anything of note. After the lull in activity, they trade leg kicks and jabs, and Ziam wipes his eye as if he was reacting from an eye poke. Herbert does not let him have a moment to take care of it, as he turns his hips into a heavy leg kick. Ziam drops to a knee in a takedown shot, and Herbert easily stands him up and bullies him towards the fence. Ziam spins him around, and he hangs on until this disappointing affair comes to a close after 15 slogging minutes pass. It’s anyone’s guess who will get the nod after this one.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (29-28 Herbert)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (29-28 Ziam)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ziam (29-28 Herbert)

The Official Result

Fares Ziam def. Jai Herbert via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Paul Craig (186) vs. Andre Muniz (185)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Muniz (-215), Craig (+185)

Round 1

A contender at light heavyweight, 35-year-old Scotsman Craig (16-6-1, 8-6-1 UFC) had fallen on hard times and decided he would switch gears by dropping 20 pounds to reach middleweight. Welcoming him to this weight class will be Brazilian submission aficionado Muniz (23-5, 5-1 UFC), who will gladly test his grappling against that of his lanky opponent. This fight that could end in the blink of an eye will be officiated by referee Dan Movahedi. The two are incredibly intense, as when Bruce Buffer is announcing them, they are standing nose-to-nose in the center of the Octagon. The two are not going touch gloves, and instead meet in the middle of the cage to engage. Both men fire off early body kicks, and they test one another with kicks to the knee as well. Craig chambers and fires another kick to the ribs, and Muniz chips at his calf and comes out with a head kick on the other side. Muniz misses the mark with a swinging head kick, and he catches a front kick and throws it aside. In alternating stances, the two parry one another with jabs, until Muniz spins with a back kick. The Brazilian follows it with a pair of punches that snap the head back, and Craig has to bounce off the wall to get his momentum back. Craig pushes out with front kicks and even spins with his own back kick, but Muniz tosses it aside and boots Craig upside the head with his shin. Craig reaches in response with a kick under the armpit. The two trade single strike one after the other, and the kick is their primary method of attack. Muniz comes up missing again with a kick, and he blocks one that swings at him in a counter. Craig surprises Muniz with a dip-down head kick, and Muniz shakes it out and is no worse for wear. Muniz lands a calf kick and goes up high, and Craig tanks it and rips the body with his own kick. The Scottish fighter lands a side kick to push Muniz back, and the crowd showers them with boos. Muniz grabs a kick and swings two fists, and he crowds Craig and bowls him over to the floor. “Sergipano” presses Craig’s neck against the corner between the fence and the floor, which shuts down any leverage he can muster from his offensive guard. Muniz largely hangs on from top position until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Muniz
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Muniz
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Muniz

Round 2

The middleweights do decide to touch gloves to start off the second round, and Craig is the initial aggressor with an early high kick that glances off the shoulder. Muniz wanders forward, and they both go after the other with head kicks. Craig races forward, grappling Muniz and getting hold of the body lock to take Muniz down. Craig quickly stands up after landing a few punches, and he gets clocked with an upkick on the way back down. Muniz keeps moving, eating a strike or two, and he hastily sets up a triangle choke. Craig looks to punch Muniz and stacks Muniz up without lowering himself too low to lock it down. The Scottish fighter pushes through the position, stifles the subsequent armbar setup, and gets free. Muniz turns him about, putting Craig on his back, and he smacks Craig in the face with punches. Craig fires back from off his back, all while maintaining butterfly hooks on the hips. Muniz unloads with heavy strikes as he has Craig trapped in an awkward position, and he steps over to a partial half guard to land left hands. As Muniz moves into attack, he headbutts Craig square on the jaw. Movahedi calls it and stands them up, but he does not penalize Muniz for what appears to be a fairly intentional headbutt. They restart on the feet, and Muniz offers an apologetic glove touch. When they resume activity, Craig shoots in for a takedown. Muniz hangs on from his back, and he sets up a reverse can opener by pinning Craig’s neck beneath his armpit. Using the maneuver to perform a sweep, he flips his man over, but Craig follows him every step of the way to get back on top. All the while, he slides his arms around the chin. “Bearjew” fishes for a brabo choke, and Muniz is able to worm through it to get his neck out of danger. Craig elects to slug him in the face, and he shifts over to full mount and rains down punches. Craig batters Muniz with elbows, and Movahedi is taking a very close eye on the action. Craig punishes his man with vicious elbows, and Muniz absorbs them flush on the jaw and has no way of escaping. The bombardment from the former light heavyweight is not ceasing, and Movahedi has no choice but to get between them, with Muniz getting wrecked and no longer intelligently defending himself. Craig has done it again, performing a mighty comeback against a dangerous opponent to get the stoppage. In victory, he almost certainly will claim a position on the UFC’s rankings at his new weight class, and he puts the other middleweights on notice.

The Official Result

Paul Craig def. Andre Muniz R2 4:40 via TKO (Elbows)

Andre Fili (145) vs. Nathaniel Wood (146)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Wood (-195), Fili (+165)

Round 1

Action may be the operative word for this featured featherweight affair, when Great Britain Top Team export Wood (19-5, 6-2 UFC) attempts to thrill his home city fans by taking on “Touchy” Fili (22-9, 1 NC; 10-8, 1 NC UFC). With upwards of 15 minutes to work, the two get after it as referee Marc Goddard stands by. Both men amped up, they race to the center of the cage without bothering to touch ‘em up. Fili instead sticks a left hand down the pipe, and Wood responds with a head kick. Fili drives a left hand down Broadway, sending Wood crashing to his seat. As Wood jumps back up, Fili just misses on a head kick that would have put him down for good. Fili settles down, and he aims a head kick at his man after resetting. Wood nails the lead leg to trip Fili up, but Fili is able to shake it off and touch him with several straighter strikes. The range of Fili is able to fluster Wood, as Fili chips away with low kicks and distance shots. Wood gets tired of taking damage, and he blazes forward, smashing Fili in the face with a flurry of fists. As Fili backs up to the wall, Wood lays into him and knocks him down to the floor. Fili falls to his back, and Wood is quick to pursue him and try to finish the job. Wood slashes down with elbows, opening a cut on the inner eyebrow to draw blood that leaks into his eye. Fili tells Goddard he is fine and to not intervene, and Wood beats on him with several strikes. Wood stands back up, feeling he will be better off upright, and he delivers a harsh leg kick that hurts Fili badly. Fili appears to have otherwise recovered from the strikes to the cranium, and he motions to Wood to get things going. The two trade jabs, and Wood gives chase and reaches Fili with an overhand right. Fili goes up high with a kick, and Wood just misses a massive right hook by a matter of inches. Fili showboats at him and even salsa dances a little, and the wild round wraps up.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Wood
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Wood
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Wood

Round 2

The featherweights are extremely amped up, and almost get going before Goddard can check them in. Goddard has to back them off, and when they start fighting, one jab from Wood shakes Fili up significantly. Wood walks him down but does not come in recklessly, as Fili wings a high kick in hopes of catching Wood coming after him. Fili circles away, and he tosses out another head kick. Wood jabs the body, and Fili whiffs on two punches. The power discrepancy for Wood is noteworthy, as he seems to sting Fili any time he lands flush. Fili’s volume answers Wood, and he strings several punches that surprise Wood. Fili drills his man on the chin with a barrage of knees, and Wood crumples to the floor a bloody mess. Fili jumps on top and is able to take his back, but he cannot pursue a choke from the position. Wood gets his bearings and musters himself out of the position and back to his feet, and as Fili returns upright, Wood manages to move around him to take his back and drag him down from behind. Wood is unable to hold him tightly in the position, as Fili spins around and takes top position. Both men take some time to clear out the cobwebs, with a stalemate largely ensuing as Wood closes the guard. Fili scores a few short punches, and Wood responds off his back with elbows. Fili stays busy from above as he remains tightly pressed to his man, sneaking in the occasional elbow or punch when he is not chattering at Wood. Fili drops down a hefty elbow, and the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Fili
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Fili
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Fili

Round 3

The two furiously begin the last round of action, and Wood clips his foe with a left hook and a jab. Fili tries to kick him reactively, and he is forced to get on his bike and back away to measure himself. Fili dodges a left hook and breathes a sigh of relief, and he peppers Wood with jabs. Wood loads up on his power punches, but one thumping leg kick does connect square on the inner calf. Wood swats out a few jabs, reaching Fili but getting sniped with a straight left hand. Wood forces a stance switch from his foe from a kick, and he times that to land another kick on the other leg. They snap out jabs one after the other, and Wood’s appear to be slightly more impactful. Fili’s jab is intercepted via a leg kick, and Wood slowly stalks him down and keeps his guard up. When Fili kicks high, Wood is able to block it, although his own counter misses. Wood chips away at the inside of Fili’s knee, and they both put speedy combinations on one another. “Touchy” crashes forward for a takedown, and Wood stonewalls him and breaks the grip. Wood lands a leg kick and shakes his own leg out from the check. Wood gets off a front kick to the body, and he defends against a sudden spin kick that is aimed at his dome. Wood allows Fili to come at him so he can knock Fili back with a left hook, and they proceed to trade vicious leg kicks as Fili lands awkwardly. Wood’s jab finds its home on the jaw, and he kicks the body as Fili ducks in for a takedown. Wood backs off and snatches up the leg, and he lets it go. Fili jumps at him with a high kick, and Wood laughs. In one final maneuver, Fili spins with a wheel kick that is feet away from his intended target, and the fight comes to a close. The two clap hands after a hard-fought battle.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Wood (29-28 Wood)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Wood (29-28 Wood)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Wood (29-28 Wood)

The Official Result

Nathaniel Wood def. Andre Fili via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Molly McCann (125) vs. Julija Stoliarenko (125)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: McCann (-215), Stoliarenko (+185)

Round 1

In the co-main event, the UFC decided stardom over rankings would sit in this spot. Having blown the roof off of the O2 Arena on multiple occasions, the promotion is lobbing McCann (13-5, 6-4 UFC) a perceived softball in armbar superfan Stoliarenko (10-7-2, 1-5 UFC). The Lithuanian has lost four of her last five outings since she rejoined the league in 2020, and this will be her first jaunt down to flyweight. Keeping tabs on this second-to-last fight on the billing will be referee Jason Herzog. While the weigh-ins saw them mash their faces together awkwardly, the bad blood keeps with them as they race at one another to get going without a touch of gloves in sight. McCann decides to back off when Stoliarenko charges, and Stoliarenko whiffs on several punches and kicks. McCann catches her foe with a short left hook on the way out, but Stoliarenko ignores it and keeps coming at her. Stoliarenko sticks out a few jabs, and she marks McCann’s nose up with them early. “Meatball Molly” jabs the body and comes over the top with a left, and Stoliarenko returns fire with a high body kick. The two come together throwing hands, and Stoliarenko’s reach is giving McCann some pause. As McCann loads up on a huge left hook, Stoliarenko deftly tackles her to the floor. McCann gets planted on her back but is quick to move, and Stoliarenko speedily takes her back during a scramble. The Liverpudlian turns her over, and Stoliarenko knows that this is her time. Snagging hold of an armbar in an awkward position, Stoliarenko locks it down even as McCann rolls over her to what she believes will be a more advantageous place. It is not the right decision, as she winds up on her back, and she frantically taps out. Stoliarenko does not immediately release the torqueing submission, and McCann keeps tapping as she is in agony as her tendons appear to be on the verge of snapping. The elbow hyperextends, potentially even breaking, and McCann screams out. Herzog reaches them after at least a half dozen taps, and he pulls them apart. McCann is in a bad way when she sits up, clutching her arm which likely has suffered some serious damage. On the other side of the equation, the victorious Stoliarenko spoils the party of the British fans who were loudly in favor of “Meatball.” As a pro, the Lithuanian has now notched 10 armbars across her 11 victories in this unforgiving sport.

The Official Result

Julija Stoliarenko def. Molly McCann R1 1:55 via Submission (Armbar)

Tom Aspinall (258) vs. Marcin Tybura (246)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Aspinall (-450), Tybura (+350)

Round 1

With this final upcoming matchup lifting it above or lowering the record below for U.K.-based fighters .500 tonight, the organization hands things over to the returning Aspinall (12-3, 5-1 UFC) in the featured attraction. Just one day removed from a full year since his blowout knee injury in this same building, the Liverpudlian optimistically seeks to get back on track of his path towards championship contention. Standing in his way will be Polish grappler and tough out Tybura (24-7, 11-6 UFC), who would like nothing more than to spoil the party at night’s end. When the dust settles, one of these heavyweights will be in the top five in the UFC, while the other may tumble down the rankings. Referee Marc Goddard draws the final assignment of the night, and the large gentlemen bump their large fists together to signal they are ready to get after it. Tybura swings hard to engage, and Aspinall dodges and weaves. The Brit fires off a big head kick, and Tybura blocks it and still stumbles back from the sheer force of the blow. Tybura lumbers forward to engage, and Aspinall is the quicker, looser man who is able to land better in the fierce exchange. Tybura comes up missing the mark on a pair of big punches, and Aspinall steps forward, brimming with confidence, to deliver a crushing elbow on the chin. Tybura is stunned, frozen in time from the ferocious blow, and Aspinall revs up and plants a one-two on the chin. Tybura topples to his back, barely still conscious, and Aspinall is not about to let him off the hook as the crowd goes wild. Bulldozing the Polish fighter with a short barrage of ground-and-pound as he lords over the fallen Tybura, Aspinall finishes the job with hammerfists to draw intervention from Goddard. The audience is elated at the victorious home country heavyweight, who will end the night for the UK at 6-5. This is a massive comeback for Aspinall, who knows exactly what his next move is: he plans on attending UFC Paris in September to challenge the victor of the Ciryl Gane-Sergey Spivak headliner, and then he has his sights set on champion Jon Jones. The crowd laps it up, and roars with approval as it imagines the belt wrapping around the waist of the triumphant Aspinall. When that showdown in September comes, we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

The Official Result

Tom Aspinall def. Marcin Tybura R1 1:13 via TKO (Elbow and Punches)