UFC on ABC 5 ‘Emmett vs. Topuria’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring

Cody Brundage (186) vs. Sedriques Dumas (185)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Brundage (-195), Dumas (+165)

Round 1

The UFC is treating North American fans to an early card placed in its favorite Floridian locale of Jacksonville, Florida. The Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena be the venue for 13 fights including several of ranked significance in a show that is better than your average Fight Night. The event kicks off with a middleweight clash that should end inside the distance between two men looking to even their promotional records to .500. Whether it will be Factory X’s Brundage (8-4, 2-3 UFC) on about a week’s notice, or the rightfully maligned Dumas (7-1, 0-1 UFC) – who sports an extremely checkered past and very likely should not be on the roster – they will have the next 15 minutes or less to decide. Regardless of Dumas current legal entanglements, the fight will take place in the Octagon, with referee Dan Miragliotta drawing the charge. Glad to be fighting tonight, the two clap hands together, and Dumas follows with a quick punch. Brundage charges at him from one side of the cage to secure an easy double-leg takedown, and he sits back and pulls for a guillotine choke. The latter is ill-advised, as Dumas turns him over on his back and slides his neck out without concern. Brundage closes his guard with Dumas on top of him, and Dumas tries to go to work with short ground-and-pound. The active Florida crowd is already hooting and hollering about this grappling barely a minute in, and it is ignored as they continue to stay in this position. Brundage hangs on with the closed guard as Miragliotta tells Dumas to work, and he connects with a short elbow from his back as Dumas cannot get the space to land much on him. Brundage scoots back and tries to buck his hips, but Dumas shuts it down and keeps Brundage flat on the canvas. A second call to action from Miragliotta calls at the midpoint of the round, and Dumas lowers himself down to set up some kind of arm-triangle choke that is not there. Dumas postures up and nails Brundage with a right hand, and he gets pulled back down to stop much more offense from coming. Brundage sets up an armbar from his back and shifts his legs up high, and Dumas stands up to wrench his arm out of the bad position. This allows Brundage the moment he needs to turn to his knees and looks to turn the tables of Dumas, where he throws Dumas on his back. Dumas sits up, and Brundage jumps guard for another guillotine choke that fails almost as soon as his back hits the ground. Dumas welcomes this so that he can load up on several mean elbows, and he pounds on Brundage with a few more punches before Brundage kicks him away with upkicks. The first round comes to a close.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Dumas
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Dumas
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Dumas

Round 2

There is a quick glove touch to start the second round, and this time there is no takedown to shortly follow. Brundage kicks the lead leg with a distance-seeking strike, and Dumas reaches out with his own leg kick. Both men are not willing to engage with anything else for the first minute, and Dumas slowly walks Brundage down as if to corner him or at least back him to the cage. Brundage kicks his way out, and he loops a right hand around that is easily parried. Brundage blitzes with a double, and Dumas defends by bouncing off the wall and sprawls well. Dumas is able to not only shut the takedown down but sneak around to take the back. Dumas gets a hook in, and Brundage appears out of answers as Dumas gets the other hook around his waist. Brundage hangs onto his foe’s left arm to try to turn him around, and this lets Dumas punch him with the free hand until Dumas grabs the fence and is warned for it. Dumas hangs on from this position, and when Brundage leans back, Dumas wraps one arm around the neck and looks for a rear-naked choke. Brundage spins himself around to thwart the choke, and he hunts for a single-leg takedown but does not have the energy to get it. Dumas is much quicker, having shored up some deficiencies in his camp to again slide around and take the back. Brundage is on his knees and return to hold onto Dumas’ right arm, and “The Reaper” suddenly drops down to pursue a rear-naked choke. Dumas lets go to move to mount, and he drives down a few elbows including one that lands to the back of the head when Brundage turns around. Dumas grips one more partial choke before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Dumas
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Dumas
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Dumas

Round 3

The last round kicks off with a glove touch, and Brundage takes the center of the cage and whips around a spinning wheel kick that glances off the guard. Brundage chases after Dumas, winging strikes, and he uses his momentum to crash forward and pursue a single. Brundage chains the attempt to a double as Dumas leans back against the fencing, and Dumas’ defense holds up as he elbows Brundage in the side of the head. Brundage redoubles his effort and dumps Dumas to his seat, and he lowers himself down and exerts his body weight to keep the Floridian down. Brundage flirts with a guillotine in this position, and he grips it when Dumas stands back up. Brundage jumps guard for another guillotine choke, and this is far tighter than previous attempts but not enough to pull off the dramatic comeback. Dumas escapes, and he resides in Brundage’s guard, where his corner implores him to start smashing Brundage with elbows. Dumas does not oblige them, instead holding on to maintain his smothering top pressure to keep Brundage from escaping. Miragliotta tells the fighters to work with 95 seconds left in the fight, and Dumas smacks Brundage’s side with a few punches and puts his hands over Brundage’s face. Brundage isolates an arm and searches for an armbar, and Dumas smartly stacks him up to break up the submission attempt. Brundage lets it go, and Dumas seems content riding out the rest of the round to likely secure the victory. Brundage cannot stand up, and Dumas concludes the disappointing match in top position.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Dumas (30-27 Dumas)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Dumas (30-27 Dumas)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Dumas (30-27 Dumas)

The Official Result

Sedriques Dumas def. Cody Brundage via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 29-28, 30-27)

Jamall Emmers (146) vs. Jack Jenkins (145.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Emmers (-200), Jenkins (+170)

Round 1

By the skin of his teeth and after chopping off all his hair, Emmers (19-6, 2-2 UFC) successfully reached the featherweight limit and saved himself thousands of dollars in the process. As a result, he might be a little extra drained and may be a bit more hydrodynamic, but he is ready to take on the streaking Aussie Jenkins (11-2, 1-0 UFC). The two bump their fists together in front of referee Andrew Glenn, and they back off to find their distance. Emmers scoots around the outside of the cage while Jenkins slowly walks him down, and Emmers potshots with a few jabs and a front kick. Jenkins hops out of the way of a low kick and blasts Emmers with one back. Emmers stumbles from it, and he shoots in for a takedown. The Aussie stands him up and pushes him away, and he starts talking to Jenkins. “Phar” blocks a few punches and prevents a knee from landing on the chin, and he continues to plod forward. Emmers fakes with a spin, and he circles away as a body kick aims at his ribs. Emmers throws a body kick too, and he avoids a blitz of punches that comes his way. Emmers slips and chains punches and kicks together, with one-twos and push kicks mixed in. The two hand-fight until Jenkins fires off another slapping body kick, and Emmers darts in to rip a left to the body. Emmers tries and fails to block a heavy body kick, and he resets and spins with a back kick that slides off the arm of his opponent. Jenkins races after him with a series of punches and a head kick, and when Emmers blocks the latter, Jenkins kicks low with emphasis. Emmers scores a few calf kicks and a body shot, and Jenkins sits down on a left hook that makes Emmers motion towards him. Jenkins escapes the long punches that soar at him and plants his shin on Emmers’ side. Emmers reaches his man with a right and a leg kick, and Jenkins replies with a leg kick of his own. The two crash together and start throwing fury, and Emmers lifts up a knee where his foot moves and bounces into Jenkins’ cup. Jenkins stops in his tracks and bends over, and Glenn gives him about 30 seconds to recover before Jenkins is good to go. When they reset, Emmers leaps at his man with a flying kick, and the two both nail one another with head kicks. All smiles, they hug it out when the bell sounds, having a lot of fun in the cage together.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Emmers
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Emmers
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Jenkins

Round 2

The two high-five to start off the round, and Emmers starts chopping at Jenkins’ lead leg. Jenkins fires one back, and it draws a limp out of his opponent. Emmers lifts his leg up preemptively, and Jenkins kicks it in the air and follows it with a right hand over the top. Emmers keeps his distance with front kicks, using the ball of his foot as a jab. Emmers ducks a looping left hook to come back over the top, and his constant movement disallows Jenkins from tracking him down and landing flush with much. Emmers whiffs on a high kick and is forced to absorb a body kick, and he jabs the midsection the other direction. The two clack their shins together with subsequent kicks, and Jenkins fires off a leg kick that makes Emmers turn. Emmers follows all the way around with an impromptu spinning back fist, and Jenkins smiles and kicks the lead leg when Emmers plants. Emmers crashes the pocket, and Jenkins swats him away but eats a one-two in the process. Emmers paws out kicks, and he takes a hacking low kick that makes him hop awkwardly. Emmers slams his shin on the calf of his opponent to give him pause, and he slings a high kick that is barely blocked in time. Emmers wings punches, and a left up the middle lands but he cannot slide away from the counter left that soars back at him. Jenkins sticks out a jab and absorbs a clean three-punch combo. Jenkins takes a heavy leg kick and spurs his foe into action with a flurry of punches, and when Jenkins blocks them, he kicks low again. Emmers shakes his head at him, but they are adding up fast. Emmers buzzes the hair with a head kick, and Jenkins fails to keep his guard up to block a follow-up left hand. Jenkins tees off to the body with two kicks, and Emmers strides forward without fear to nail Jenkins with a fierce one-two. Jenkins connects with a hard leg kick, and Emmers spins with a back fist but telegraphs it this time. The frantic movement results in both men dropping to the mat, and they scramble wildly as Emmers winds up on top. Emmers bashes his foe with a few elbows before the horn sounds, capping off a furiously paced frame.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Emmers
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Emmers
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Emmers

Round 3

The last round kicks off with a double clap of hands, and Jenkins is in the driver’s seat as he walks down his foe. Emmers stands firm this time, and he slings leather to drive Jenkins back. Emmers suddenly changes levels and drops down for a double, and he sets the Australian fighter on his back successfully. Jenkins clings to his opponent to shut down any ground-and-pound, and he holds his palm under Emmers’ chin to fluster him. Jenkins squirms to the side, and he leans himself against the cage. This lets Emmers step over and nearly take his back, and he quickly transitions to a rear-naked choke. Jenkins seems shocked at this development, and he rapidly twists his body and returns to lay flat on his back to prevent this from getting locked in. Jenkins bucks and moves to his knees with his shoulder up against the wall, and Emmers tries to keep him pinned but does not have the control to do so. Jenkins burst back to his feet and dodges the elbow, and when they separate, he is quick to shut down the next takedown effort. Emmers closes in for a takedown, and Jenkins turns the tables on him when Emmers tries a head lock throw. Jenkins sets Emmers on his back, but Emmers rolls all the way through to claim top position. “Phar” closes guard, and Emmers gloms on top of him to deliver sporadic ground-and-pound. Jenkins attacks with elbows from his back when Glenn calls them to work, and Emmers concludes the fight throwing punches. When the horn sounds, Emmers helps his former opponent up, and the two embrace after 15 minutes of diverse combat.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Emmers (30-27 Emmers)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Emmers (30-27 Emmers)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Emmers (29-28 Emmers)

The Official Result

Jack Jenkins def. Jamall Emmers via Split Decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)

Jose Mariscal (154) vs. Trevor Peek (156)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Peek (-110), Mariscal (-110)

Round 1

Hold onto your hats, because this next lightweight pairing is likely going to be fast and furious for as long as it lasts. The hard-charging Peek (8-0, 1 NC; 1-0 UFC) with most of those coming in Round 1 will be facing off with LFA veteran Mariscal (13-6, 1 NC; 0-0 UFC), who himself does not shy away from a brawl. Referee James Larry Folsom will need to be on high alert here, and the judges might not be part of the equation. There is a no glove touch before the two engage, and instead Mariscal is the immediate aggressor. Peek feints and fakes his way in with a big right hand and a body kick, as Mariscal measures him and fires off a right hook. Peek crashes the pocket and knees Mariscal in the gut, and a frantic tie-up leads to Peek throwing Mariscal down on the floor. Both men leap to their feet, and they engage in a furious clinch exchange where Mariscal lands over the top and Peek pays him back. They take a second to gather their thoughts when splitting, and Peek gets pushed to the wall and kneed in the midsection. Peek spins him around and drills him with a short right hook, and Mariscal turns him about and attempts a level change. Mariscal sets up a knee up the middle, and he connects with a few punches and manages to throw Peek to the floor. Peek stands up, and Mariscal jumps on to take his back and threatens with a rear-naked choke. Peek falls to his back, and he miraculously fights off the rear-naked choke that should have had him dead to rights. Peek twists his neck, and he powers his way up to his feet. Peek loads up on a huge uppercut, and it smashes square into Mariscal’s cup to draw a pause. Peek apologizes instantly, and after a few seconds, Mariscal is ready to go again. They kick things off again with Peek attacking with several kicks high and low, and he spins with one that grazes off the guard. Peek walks into brawl, and “Chepe” drills him with a short right hand and eats a few on the way out. They trade big leg kicks, and Peek swings his way into a flurry that knocks Mariscal against the wall. Mariscal bounces off the fence and slides away, and he gets off a short punch. Peek throws everything and the kitchen sink as he backs Mariscal from one side of the cage to the other, and Mariscal manages to survive it and circle away. Peek puts his hands on his hips, possibly exhausted, and Mariscal throws him down to the floor with emphasis. Mariscal pursues a choke attempt, and transitions into an armbar when Peek scrambles. Peek falls to his back, and his explosions have less on them while Mariscal is more technical. Peek manages to kick him off, and he spins with two kicks as the wild round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal

Round 2

The second round opens up with a clap of hands, and Peek races forward with a big right hand that ricochets off the guard. “Chepe” kicks the lead keg and then chains one to the body, and Peek throws a fastball back at him that misses the mark. The big right hand from Peek is telegraphed, and Mariscal crashes into him. Clinched up, they jockey for position, and Peek pushes him against the wire. Mariscal absorbs a flush knee to the body and throws back several punches, and he trips Peek out with a body lock and deposits the Alabaman on the floor. Mariscal lands right in half guard, and the action slows down significantly as Mariscal exerts ground control and lands a few strikes. Peek sits up, and he turns to a knee and stands up. Landing an elbow on the break, Peek follow with several body shots, and they crash together and appear to bump heads to wobble Mariscal. Peek wings an uppercut and a hammerfist, and Mariscal grins at him and kicks Peek so hard on the calf that Peek falls on his face. Mariscal follows him to the floor and slices into mount with two minutes left in the round. Peek rolls over to his knees and gives up his back, and in Mariscal’s excitement, Mariscal falls off when looking for a choke. Peek manages to move into top position, but “Chepe” is able to move back to his knees and counter with a single. Mariscal powers Peek back down to the floor, and Peek crawls his way to the fence in hopes of wall-walking. When Peek stands, Mariscal drops down for a double, and Peek smacks him upside the head with several emphatic blows. Peek defends the takedown, and Mariscal batters his leg from up close. They smash one another to the body, and Mariscal puts everything he has into a left hand. Peek lets his hands go while Mariscal shoots in, and the round comes a close.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal

Round 3

To the surprise of some, the fighters have reached Round 3, and they greet by tapping their hands together. Peek walks “Chepe” down and kicks him in the lead and spears him with a right hand to the body. The two trade low kicks, and Peek leans back when Mariscal aims a head kick at him. Peek throws caution to the wind with looping punches, and Mariscal eats them cleanly and shoots for a takedown. Peek defends with his side against the chain links, and he pushes off to get some space. Mariscal attacks with a front kick and a standing elbow, and Peek unloads with a body shot that lands with an audible thud. Peek wings uppercuts, and the two proceed to swing for the bleachers. Peek gets his bell rung, and Mariscal seems surprised that he cannot put Peek away despite hitting him so hard. Peek gets shoved against the wall, and he tosses several low sweep kicks at Mariscal with his back against it. Peek turns the corner and splits up, and the two have half a round to get things done. Mariscal ducks away from a head kick, and Peek falls to the floor. Mariscal backs away to let his man up, and when they re-engage, he tags Peek with a big left hand. Peek swings too hard with a right hand, and he leans up against the fence to catch his breath. Mariscal points at the ground to lure him into another slugfest, and Peek gladly obliges. This allows Mariscal to drill him with several punches and an elbow. Peek hangs in there, and he goes for a head kick, but Mariscal is faster and more active. The two briefly clinch, and Peek swings with bad intentions as Mariscal ducks away. Mariscal gives it back to him, and he gets stung and drops down for a single. Peek defends it and backs up against the wall, despite his fatigue, Mariscal backs away and boots him in the face with a front kick. Peek is barely on his feet, and Mariscal lays into him with haymakers. Peek, on the edge of consciousness, swings right back and hurts Mariscal again. Mariscal shoot for a single, and Peek shuts it down and draws his foe into one final, ridiculous brawl. The two have incredibly made it to the final bell, and these two will likely be $50,000 richer with “Fight of the Night” bonus checks heading their way at night’s end.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal (30-27 Mariscal)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal (30-27 Mariscal)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Mariscal (30-27 Mariscal)

The Official Result

Jose Mariscal def. Trevor Peek via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Joshua Van (125.25) vs. Zhalgas Zhumagulov (125.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Zhumagulov (-195), Van (+165)

Round 1

After multiple withdrawals and opponent changes, Zhumagulov (14-8, 1-5 UFC) finally finds himself with a dance partner. In the flyweight division, he will face off against UFC newcomer and Fury FC staple Van (7-1, 0-0 UFC), who lives in Texas but hails from Myanmar. The Kazakhstan-based Zhumagulov has a lifeline after losing three straight fights, but with multiple controversial decision defeats on his ledger, he comes up against a fighter in Van who has never before heard the final bell as a pro. This potentially fast-paced affair will be officiated by referee Andrew Glenn, and it begins with a glove touch. Zhumagulov pushes the pace and flicks out a jab, and Van snaps his head back and gets kicked low with a foot that slides up into his cup. Van adjusts his athletic supporter and does not pause, and Zhumagulov walks after him with a front kick and a few follow-up punches. They trade heavy kicks, and Zhumagulov gives chase with a looping right hand. Zhumagulov digs a left to the body and right to the head, and he hops forward with a left hook. Van counters with a short right, and the two get their jabs going. Zhumagulov slips a right hook, and he kicks the calf in response. Van attacks the body and gets jabbed for his effort, and he snaps one back to shake up Zhumagulov’s new haircut. Van follows a jab with a sharp right hand, and he digs a left straight to the midsection. Van intercepts an advancing Zhumagulov with a leg kick, and Zhumagulov swings his way into a body lock takedown. Van breaks away with a knee to the body, and he slides back as Zhumagulov aims strikes at his torso. Zhumagulov comes up just short on a winging left hook, and he plants a one-two on the side of the head. Van looks to make him pay with a similar combination, and Zhumagulov is right there in front of him throwing hammers. Zhumagulov dips down to sling a left, and he walks through an uppercut to crash through a single and deposit Van to the floor. Van jumps right back up, and Zhumagulov hits a quick mat return. Van once more is able to wall-walk upright again, and they separate and fire off jabs. Both men aim body kicks at the same time, and Zhumagulov misses with a three-punch salvo. The close frame ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Zhumagulov
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Zhumagulov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Zhumagulov

Round 2

The second round begins with the two trading quick strikes, and Zhumagulov starts off with multiple leg kicks. Van marches through them to push out jabs, and he surprises his foe with a one-two in the middle of Zhumagulov’s activity. Zhumagulov chips at him with jabs and leg kicks, and he gets stung with an overhand right but shakes it off. They clack their shins together with simultaneous kicks, and the jab from Van is starting to mark up his opponent. Van follows his jabs with right hands, and Zhumagulov swings back harder with inaccurate blows. The leg kicks from Zhumagulov are connecting, and Van backs him away and brushes his foe’s hair back with a blazing high kick. Van strides into a one-two, and he pushes out a front kick that Zhumagulov catches but not convert into a takedown. Zhumagulov loops a right hand around the guard, and Van whips a high kick at him that slams into the guard. Van duplicates the head kick and rocks Zhumagulov, and he proceeds to unload with a vicious salvo of punches that blasts into Zhumagulov. The Kazakh fighter toughs it out and counters well enough to keep Van honest, and he skirts away, still a little wobbled. Van does not recklessly chase, instead measuring with his jab and one-two, and Zhumagulov is more committed to single power punches. Zhumagulov telegraphs them as Van walks him down, he gets clipped behind the ear with a right hand. Van turns a front kick into a punch combination as Zhumagulov is trying to find his timing. Van eats a low kick, and he backpedals as Zhumagulov gives him the business with several kicks and a sharp uppercut. Zhumagulov wings a right hand that grazes the cheek and opens a cut, and he connects with a heavy leg kick. The two trade furious punches, and Van sends Zhumagulov staggering back. Zhumagulov spins with a back fist that smacks into Van’s chin, and he tries another that misses the mark. Van, seeing this, decides to spin with his own elbow, and the growingly exciting round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Van
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Van
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Van

Round 3

There is a quick glove touch before the two flyweights decide to get right back to action, and they trade punches in a fun exchange. Van leans back from a haymaker to stick out several jabs, and he catches Zhumagulov coming in with straight punches. Zhumagulov still manages to land with his sweeping hook, and Van drives him back with a jab. Van follows a jab with a right hook that shakes Zhumagulov up, but Zhumagulov bites down on his mouthpiece and leaps forward with a left hook. Van’s jab is money, as Zhumagulov spins with a failed back fist in response. Van gets off an oblique kick to change the stance briefly, but Zhumagulov gathers a full head of steam and kicks the lead leg in retaliation. Zhumagulov gets his bell rung with a short stream of punches, and Van is in the driver’s seat as he knocks Zhumagulov’s head around. Zhumagulov throws one or two, while Van strings several together generally. This volume is giving Zhumagulov fits, and Van opens up with a step-in elbow that leads to them closing the distance and bumping their heads together. Zhumagulov protests, and after a moment of confusion, they get back to it. Van keeps coming forward, and he absorbs and shrugs off a left hook to jump at the Kazakh fighter with a jump kick. Zhumagulov lashes out with a few punches, and Van jabs to break it up and throw back a hard right hand. Zhumagulov spins with a back fist, and Van times this to bust Zhumagulov’s nose up with a combination. Van continues to push the pace, flicking out jabs and not missing a beat. Zhumagulov throws back with impunity, missing several looping strikes and others graze off the intended target to little effect. Van times a jab into a huge right hand, and when it misses, he chambers and fires another shorter right that meets the mark. Zhumagulov spins recklessly, and he sinks in a left hand when he recovers. Van stuns his foe with a one-two, and he spins with a wheel kick that misses the hairline. With 15 seconds left in the fight, the two start brawling. Van lands heavy blows, Zhumagulov gives chase and spins several times, only to get popped with sharp punches as he does. The 21-year-old newcomer sticks his tongue out, and after another exchange, the striking battle wraps.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Van (29-28 Van)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Van (29-28 Van)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Van (29-28 Van)

The Official Result

Joshua Van def. Zhalgas Zhumagulov via Split Decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

Tabatha Ricci (114) vs. Gillian Robertson (116)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Ricci (-130), Robertson (+110)

Round 1

The first of two women’s bouts tonight plays out in the strawweight division, between two ladies on the outside of the rankings looking in. “Baby Shark” Ricci (8-1, 3-1 UFC) will ply her grappling trade against submission magician Robertson (12-7, 9-5 UFC), with the latter celebrating the women’s record for the most subs. This grappler’s delight matchup will be joined in the cage by referee Keith Peterson, and the no-nonsense match starts without a sporting touch of gloves. Robertson walks through a leg kick early to push out a right hand, and Ricci shrugs it off and advances face-first into an elbow. Ricci kicks another time to the calf, and Robertson snatches up her leg and pursues a takedown. Ricci is able to recover her balance and bounce off the cage to successfully defend it, and she puts three punches on the chin and blocks the single counter. Robertson looks to throw hands, and Ricci snatches up her leg and dumps the Canadian on the canvas. Robertson employs a butterfly guard, and Ricci sits up high to not enter it. This allows “The Savage” to burst back to her feet, and they return to striking distance. Robertson jabs the body and avoids a pair of punches coming back her way. Ricci reaches with a few punches, and Robertson sits down on a right hand counter. Ricci again lands a one-two, and she follows it with the same two-punch salvo. This continues as Robertson is left lunging at her, and Robertson aims a kick at the lead leg when Ricci escapes out the side. Ricci gives one right back and comes up hitting air with flailing fists. Ricci tosses out a high kick that gets blocked, and she times a takedown as Robertson is bearing down on her. Robertson defends by wrapping up Ricci’s right arm, and Ricci recognizes the danger and stands up to let Robertson back up and try from another angle. Ricci chips at the lead leg and is the faster fighter, as she escapes, resets and dings Robertson with three punches. Robertson trips to the mat when her lead leg is kicked hard, and she recovers to swing an overhand right. Ricci retaliates with a sharp combination, mixing in another leg kick, and she intercepts Robertson tossing out a front kick with her own calf kick. Ricci shoots for a takedown, and this time, Robertson stonewalls her. Ricci does not mind, as she skirts away and evades a head kick that whooshes past her. Robertson scores a low kick, and Ricci sticks and moves. Ricci pecks away with a right hand on the forehead, and Robertson backpedals when Ricci gives chase with a follow-up combo. Ricci kicks low, blocks two kicks, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ricci
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Ricci
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ricci

Round 2

The strawweight meet in the middle, and Robertson leads the dance with a head kick that is blocked. Robertson then kicks low, and Ricci reaches her back with a right hand. Ricci chips with kicks on the inside and outside of the calf, and she raises her guard to defend against a high kick. Robertson drives her back with a solid overhand right, and Ricci digs a right to the body and left to the head. Ricci sneaks a right hand over the guard and is constantly attacking with something. A low kick draws a stumble, and Robertson recovers and reaches out with a right hand. Ricci snipes her foe with a right hook, and she sweeps the leg again while Robertson rushes at her. Robertson gathers her thoughts and crashes the pocket with strikes, only for Ricci to see most of them coming and counter her effectively. Robertson catches a kick and works a right hand over the top, and she steps face-first into a left hand. Ricci paws away a front kick to toss out a one-two, and Robertson aims a left to the body. Ricci sticks out a few jabs, and she pops the Canadian with a right to the ribs and left to the temple. Ricci sticks her opponent and stands in front of her, not moving as much, and this allows Robertson to sink a kick to the body. The two ladies trade heavier blows, and this results in Ricci catching a kick and depositing “The Savage” to her seat. Ricci elects to not follow her into the guard, and she lets Robertson stand up. Ricci shrugs off a knee and an elbow, but her nose starts leaking. Robertson gives chase, and she walks into intercepting blows on the way in. Robertson kicks her on the calf, and she absorbs a flush body kick. They trade leg kicks, and Ricci goes downstairs and up top. The crowd grows restless from the lack of danger in these exchanges, even as they continue striking at a high rate. Robertson picks up the pace, and Ricci’s nose drips more as she takes shots on it. The round ends with both ladies scoring shots.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ricci
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Ricci
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ricci

Round 3

There is a glove touch to start the last round, and it could be close. Robertson is the one to push the pace immediately, and she backs Ricci off with power punches and a kick. Ricci is still the faster woman, harder to hit and constantly moving. Robertson whiffs on a pair of punches, and Ricci lunges towards her with a straight left. The two greet one another with heavy right hands, and Ricci sets up a body kick. When she sets her leg down, Robertson rushes at her and tackles her to the mat. Ricci turns over and considers a submission that results in a wild scramble, and she fights her way back to her feet and attempts her own takedown. The former flyweight shuts down the entry, and Robertson backs her off with a leg kick. Robertson lumbers forward swinging her fists, and Ricci plants a punch on the forehead before sliding away. They both get off short punches, and Robertson is just out of range with a combination. Ricci lands an uppercut as Robertson reaches her with a right hand, and Ricci keeps moving and does not stand still. “Baby Shark” snaps the head back with a jab, and she paws away a low kick and catches Robertson with a right hand coming in. Ricci works the body with a kick and aims a kick to the lead leg, and she rushes past a swinging right hand that aims towards her. Ricci chains six punches together in rapid succession, and Robertson only gives one back before Ricci is out of the way. Ricci grabs a kick and considers a takedown, but she bails on it to keep trading punches. Ricci scores a right hand, strafes to the side, and avoids the brunt of a body kick. Ricci gets knocked back with a right hand, and she comes right back into the pocket to throw hands. Ricci goes for a double with 30 seconds to spare, and Robertson stands her up. The clinch that follows allows Robertson to knee her once, and Robertson pushes forward for one last takedown. Ricci staves it off and ducks a head kick that comes at her face. The Brazilian is able to avoid all of the final looping strikes aimed in her general direction before time expires.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Ricci (30-27 Ricci)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Ricci (30-27 Ricci)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ricci (30-27 Ricci)

The Official Result

Tabatha Ricci def. Gillian Robertson via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Loik Radzhabov (157.25: Missed Weight) vs. Mateusz Rebecki (155.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Rebecki (-155), Radzhabov (+135)

Round 1

A classic battle of Poland vs. Tajikistan is about to play out in a match that was initially scheduled at lightweight. Both looking to make their sophomore appearance a positive one, “Chinczyk” Rebecki (17-1, 1-0 UFC) will battle it out with the heavy PFL export Radzhabov (17-4-1, 1-0 UFC). The third man in the Octagon for this de facto 158-pound catchweight contest will be referee James Larry Folsom, and the fighters still touch gloves despite the weight discrepancy. Rebecki moves into striking range, backing his foe off and not worried about a big punch aimed at his direction. Rebecki loads up on a body kick, and he walks into a looping right hand. Rebecki rushes at his man with a pair of punches, and Radzhabov bounces off the fence and absorbs a pair of big leg kicks. Radzhabov gets a head of steam and aims a right hand and a body kick back. Rebecki continues to hammer the lead wheel, and he punches Radzhabov square in the face as Radzhabov tries to duck. Rebecki scoots back from a right hand and hammers the inside calf with a kick. Radzhabov swings his way into a body lock takedown attempt, and Rebecki breaks out of the clinch and kicks the ribcage. Radzhabov races forward to sling punches, and Rebecki takes them and goes back to crowding Radzhabov against the wall. Rebecki pins Radzhabov back and pops him with a left hook and a few jabs, and he suddenly changes levels to snatch up a double. Radzhabov falls to his back and grabs hold of a guillotine choke, and Rebecki pops his head out as he steps into an advantageous position with Radzhabov’s legs trapped between his own. Rebecki slugs Radzhabov in the chops with a right hand in his partial mount position, as he could shimmy up to sit on Radzhabov’s hips. Instead, Rebecki hops out of it to the side, so he can elbow Radzhabov on the dome. The fighter from Tajikistan scrambles to his knees and forces his way back to his feet, and he launches a big leg kick. Rebecki lunges forward with a fiery right hand, and he blasts Radzhabov with a leg kick that separates Radzhabov from his balance. Rebecki jumps on top of a fallen Radzhabov and locks up a crucifix position in a hurry with 20 seconds to go. Rebecki sets up a straight armlock from his angle, and he lets it go to hold Radzhabov down until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rebecki
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Rebecki
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Rebecki

Round 2

The fighters touch gloves before getting right back to it, and Radzhabov starts by slugging it out. Rebecki nails him with a kick, and Radzhabov is barely able to stand up. Radzhabov wobbles back to the fence to let it help keep him upright, and Rebecki attacks it relentlessly. Rebecki measures his punches as Radzhabov is up against the wall, and he does not get reckless as Radzhabov is throwing big counters back his way. Radzhabov scores a leg hand, an elbow and another few punches. Rebecki measures his man and drives home several more low kicks to both legs, and Radzhabov cannot stand up and drops to his knees. Through sheer force of will, Radzhabov stands back up, and he entices Rebecki into a mad brawl. Rebecki obliges and busts Radzhabov in the chops, and he swings low kicks that make Radzhabov react physically every time. Even when Radzhabov lifts his leg up, the shin slams into it and makes him wince. Radzhabov takes a hard look at the clock, which says 2:45 left in the round, and Rebecki is stalking him with accurate, dangerous blows. Rebecki decks Radzhabov with a massive left hand, and Radzhabov crashes to the ground. Folsom immediately leaps in between them to call a halt to the contest, giving fans their first finish of the night in what some might consider a mercy stoppage. Rebecki limps away, having suffered some serious damage to his foot from the hellacious kicks, and he successfully pushes his impressive win streak to 15 straight.

The Official Result

Mateusz Rebecki def. Loik Radzhabov R2 2:36 via TKO (Punch)

Randy Brown (171) vs. Wellington Turman (171)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Brown (-225), Turman (+190)

Round 1

A mainstay in the welterweight “action fighter” category, “Rude Boy” Brown (16-5, 10-5 UFC) is trying to come back from a deflating submission loss in February. His next test comes in the form of Teixeira MMA & Fitness product Turman (18-6, 3-4 UFC), who is moving down from the middleweight division in hopes of finding a new lease on life while boosting his UFC record to .500. With finish rates of 69% and 67% between them, it is entirely possible that referee Andrew Glenn will have to get involved before it is all said and done. The pairing begins with a half-hearted glove touch, and Brown races into action with several long punches to ding Turman on the dome. Brown sticks out a jab, and his long leg takes a hard kick in response. Brown swipes a left hand over the top, and he evades a few punches coming back his way. Brown checks a kick, and he loops a right around the guard. Brown chips kicks on the inside and outside of the Brazilian’s leg, and he backpedals when Turman throws a haymaker at him. Brown goes upstairs with a kick, and he sims one to the body from the same leg. Turman loads up on a right hand, and he picks and pokes with low kicks. Brown pushes off with his hand, and his thumb jams into Turman’s eyeball. Glenn recognizes it and gives Turman time to recover, and Turman blinks it out after about 40 seconds. Brown apologizes and lets go with a leg kick after, and Turman stings him with a one-two. Turman starts committing to leg kicks, appearing a little angry, and he is swinging harder with bad intentions. Brown drops his hands, and Turman works the leg over a few more times to decent and audible effect. Turman attacks with a one-two, only to get smacked by Brown on the way out. Brown takes a leg kick and jumps with a leaping punch to shake Turman up. The resulting momentum ties them up, and Brown brings up a knee that loudly pumps into the cup. Turman grimaces, and Glenn acknowledges the foul and warns Brown for multiple unintentional fouls. Turman takes 30 seconds before getting back to action, and this time they are tentative to engage immediately thereafter. Brown eventually attempts a front kick, and he stomps down on the lead knee of his opponent a few times. Brown keeps a safe distance, and the crowd grows tired of their lack of engagement quickly. Turman swipes out with a right hand, and his own finger scrapes Brown’s eye. Glenn warns them both but does not intervene, instead letting things play out while Brown aggressively blinks. Brown gathers himself and leaps at his opponent with a knee, and when he lands, he grabs hold of Turman and slams him to the floor for an exclamation point to conclude the round.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Brown
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Brown
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Brown

Round 2

The welterweights take to the center of the cage to start the second round, and Brown keeps a wide berth and doubles up on jab. Brown follows it with a right hand, and Turman leans to the side and rolls with it. Turman bears down on his opponent, throwing fire, and Brown is elusive and dodges most of the punches. The leg kicks from Turman, however, continue to find their home unchecked. Turman steps in with a swinging fist, and he wraps his arms around the waist and looks for a takedown. Brown uses his long legs and leverage to keep his balance and backs himself against the fence, and Brown scores a knee to the body while Turman retaliates with a short elbow. Brown turns him around and knees his man on the side and thigh, and Brown proceeds to grind him out. They continue to jockey for position as Glenn tells them to keep working, and Brown answers with several more short knees. The two spin one another around repeatedly in a rhythmic yet violent dance of sorts, and they keep fighting for underhooks. Turman gains a sudden burst of energy and rips an elbow over the top, and he hooks his leg between Brown’s in an effort to drag him down. Brown halts this from succeeding, and they knee one another in the chest as the crowd lets them have it. Turman brings a knee up high, and Brown catches it and hurls Turman to the floor. Turman jumps back up, and Brown hops on his back and gets both hooks in while Turman is standing. Brown elbows his man on the side of the head until the lackluster round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Brown
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Brown
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Brown

Round 3

The two start up the last round, and they do not change their gameplans. Turman goes after a low kick or two, and Brown uses his long arms to pops Turman a few times. Turman blocks kicks to the body and head, and he closes in on Brown only to get kneed on the chin to back away. Turman walks into another knee when he re-engages in the clinch, and he imposes his weight on Brown for the good part of a minute until Brown shoves him away. Turman crowds his foe and eats a left hook when Brown hops away. Turman gives chase, and the two trade kicks. Turman continues to land leg kicks, and he watches a knee come up short. The Brazilian tosses out a high kick, and he absorbs a jab and a body kick. Turman gets off a low kick and misses with a right hand, and this leads to him trying to clinch. Brown does not want to play this, and he puts his hands on Turman’s face in rapid succession. Turman gets shaken up, and he comes into clinch. Turman plants an elbow on the forehead, and Brown turns him around for a moment. The grueling clinch battle leads to a brief takedown effort from the Brazilian, but Brown stands him up and takes another flush elbow on the face. Brown is bloodied up from the strikes, and his left eye is swelling up fast. Brown pecks with a few jabs and a front kick, and Turman spins with a back fist that lands right at the end of it. Brown blocks a spinning back kick and delivers one back to the midsection, and Turman rushes in with a clinch and elbows Brown hard. Brown grimaces and breaks off with seconds to go, and he kicks the body. Turman spins with a jumping kick, and the occasionally entertaining match hears the final bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Turman (29-28 Brown)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Turman (29-28 Brown)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Turman (29-28 Brown)

The Official Result

Randy Brown def. Wellington Turman via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Neil Magny (171) vs. Philip Rowe (171)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Magny (-165), Rowe (+140)

Round 1

While UFC stalwart Magny (27-10, 20-9 UFC) – who holds the welterweight record for the most wins – has over seven times the Octagon experience than Rowe (10-3, 3-1 UFC), he is only three years the elder. Magny also claims the promotional record overall for the most decision wins with 13, while his opponent Rowe has never before won a fight on the scorecards. Something might have to give here, and referee Dan Miragliotta is here for it. With no interest in touching gloves, instead Rowe wants to throw fire early. Rowe backs Magny up with two huge right hands, and Magny retreats all the way to put his back to the cage. Rowe presses him up against it and leans on him, and he looks to lift Magny off the ground but cannot do so. Magny turns him around and lands a few knees to the body, and he looks to hook his leg between Rowe’s for a potential trip. Miragliotta calls for them to work as they have reached a stalemate, and Magny uses his leverage in an attempt to drag Rowe down. When that does not work, Magny goes over the top with an elbow, and he firmly embraces the grind. As the two fighters slow things down, the commentary booth drifts into a conversation about Lyoto Machida’s unusual taste in beverages. Rowe muscles his way around to push Magny back, and Magny turns him back about. Rowe pushes off to gain some space with 90 seconds left in the round, and he reaches out with a right hand. A combination from Rowe stings “The Haitian Sensation” who ducks away and gains a full head of steam to swarm Rowe with punches. Rowe backpedals and darts away from the brunt of the blows, and Rowe chips at him with a leg kick. Rowe catches his man with a left hand, and Magny surges into action and changes levels. Magny cannot get the takedown, so the two end up back in the tie-up with the wall behind Rowe. Rowe swings an elbow over the top to break them up, and the slow round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rowe
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Rowe
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Rowe

Round 2

The welterweights meet right in the center of the cage, swatting at one another. Rowe drops his hands to goad Magny into punching him, and Magny does not fall into the trap. Rowe pressure Magny with a jump knee, and as he swings his fists, he drops down and makes Magny fall to his seat. When Magny stands, Rowe scales him like a tree and secures a body triangle around the waist. Rowe frees his arms up and hunts for some kind of choke while Magny is standing, carrying Rowe’s weight even as he leans his back against the cage. Leaning Rowe against the wall shuts down Rowe’s ability to seek out a choke, and Magny hammers the thigh with a number of heavy knees to break the body triangle. Rowe falls off, with his arm still draped around Magny’s back like a mean-spirited seatbelt, and Magny fights for wrist control in an effort to turn around. Rowe drops to his knees and puts Magny to the mat for a second, before the longtime vet springs back up and presses Rowe against the wire. Magny drives one knee to the chest, and the crowd showers the fighters with boos due to this exhausting clinch battle. Rowe escapes, and Magny chases after him with a few long punches. Rowe gets pushed back to the wall again, and Magny snatches up a single and presses heavily against his opponent. Rowe tries to explode again, and Magny flusters him with an elbow and another single try. Rowe gathers his thoughts, and he uses his shoulder to squeeze Rowe against the fence like he was trying to squeeze him through it. One explosion for Rowe was successful enough to break them up, and he gets caught in a Thai clinch and eats several knees on the chin to end the unexciting frame.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Magny
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Magny
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Magny

Round 3

The mirror match has reached the final stanza, and they again come together in the middle of the Octagon to throw hands and feet. Magny gets off a leg kick and a one-two, and Rowe fires back with a body kick and a few swiping punches. Magny checks a kick and absorbs one on the outside, and he crashes the pocket and succeeds with several short uppercuts on the inside. Magny breaks off and paws out with a left hook, and Rowe ignores it to stalk Magny down. Magny keeps his guard up and bounces off the fence, and they get up close and personal but miss on their big strikes. Rowe snaps the head back with a double jab, and Magny checks a low kick but ricochets off the wire when Rowe throws at him. The two clinch up in the middle of the cage, and Magny brings up a few short knees until Rowe pushes him back to the wall. Magny palms Rowe several times as Rowe drops down for a takedown. Magny staves off the entry and looks for a Thai clinch, so Rowe backs off before Magny can knee him. Magny pokes out a jab, and Rowe kicks his lead leg a few times. Rowe swings and misses with an overhand left, allowing Magny to grab him and clinch. Magny tries to drag Rowe down with a head lock, and he thumps Rowe to the nose with a knee. Rowe swings back violently with a one-two, and he releases an uppercut that makes Magny think twice and change levels. Magny trips out Rowe but Rowe is able to keep his balance, and Magny redoubles his effort to no avail. “The Fresh Prince” backs away and prepares himself for one final assault. Rowe marches forward, and he swings with bad intentions as Magny rolls with some of the punches. Magny grips him and pushes him back to the fence, where shoulder strikes and short punches end the disappointing pairing. It could be anyone’s fight here, based on the lack of activity throughout most of it.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rowe (29-28 Rowe)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Rowe (29-28 Rowe)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Rowe (29-28 Rowe)

The Official Result

Neil Magny def. Philip Rowe via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Brendan Allen (185.5) vs. Bruno Silva (186)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Allen (-180), Silva (+155)

Round 1

A fight that seems destined for a finish will kick off the main card on ABC, as these two middleweights present dueling finish rates of 81% and 87%. Referee Marc Goddard is on his guard for this encounter between “All In” Allen (21-5, 9-2 UFC) and “Blindado” Silva (23-8, 4-2 UFC). The two do not bump fists before getting to it, and instead it is Allen as the attacker, swinging out a high kick that is parried with ease. Allen rushes out with a straight right hand and attempts another high kick, and the latter is blocked. Allen sneaks up a head kick, and Silva eats it and is forced to defend a takedown effort that follows. Allen rips the body with a kick, and he closes the distance and ignores a knee coming back at him. “All In” jams Silva up against the wire, and he connects with a short elbow as he does. Allen looks to muscle Silva down to the floor, and when his first try come up short, Goddard tells them to work. Allen keeps pressing on his foe to wear on him, and Goddard asks again for more activity. Allen breaks off and gets drilled with a right hand, and he counters Silva with a short right hand to shake the Brazilian up as a result. Allen drives a left hand through and rocks Silva, and he shoots for a double that gets stuffed. Silva backs him away and walks into an uppercut, and when Silva unloads with a few punches, he backs away to reset. Silva stings his man with a combination, and Allen shells up and counters with a pair of rights. Allen smashes his opponent on the side of the head with several vicious right hands, and the last one in a chain of them sends “Blindado” careening to the mat. Allen jumps on top hoping to finish the job, and he busts Silva up with several punches on the way down. Silva turns to his side, and Allen hopes to take his back in the process. Allen hunts for a back take, and he gets a hook in. He does not need to even secure the other before he fastens a rear-naked choke up tightly. Allen is in major trouble, and he does not have the wherewithal to fight the grip or get out of the precarious position. Instead, before he goes out, Silva is forced to tap out. That is another rear-naked choke for Allen, who waded through a firefight and showed off his improved striking before getting the club-and-sub finish.

The Official Result

Brendan Allen def. Bruno Silva R1 4:39 via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)

David Onama (146) vs. Gabriel Santos (145)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Santos (-230), Onama (+195)

Round 1

The UFC chose violence for this featherweight encounter placed on the main card. Having moved on from Glory MMA & Fitness over to Factory X, Onama (10-2, 2-2 UFC) is well-schooled and just as aggressive as ever. Standing in his way will be the tough Santos (10-1, 0-1 UFC), who presents problems on the feet and mat as well. The Octagon ranger for this clash free from nonsense will be referee Keith Peterson, and he stands back to let the two come together without bothering to touch ‘em up. Santos lands a calf kick early, and Onama walks him down with a left hand. Santos counters with a right hand, and he catches his man with two more punches. Onama gathers his thoughts and swings back with bad intentions, and the two trade leather in front of one another. Santos pushes forward and pursues a takedown, but his angle is poor and Onama is able to bowl him over and end up on top. Onama flattens his foe out when Santos looks to set up an armbar, and Onama tries to get his right hand going before getting kicked off. When Santos stands, Onama busts him in the chops with three punches. Santos fires back and ends his combo with a kick. They trade punches, taking turns to throw them, and both chins hold up well. Santos jabs the body and counters with a right hook, and Onama reaches him back with a short right of his own. Onama backs away, circling with the fence right behind him, and he absorbs a few hard leg kicks before taking a left hand right on the nose. Santos kicks low and punches high, and he rocks the Ugandan fighter with a left hand and spins with a back kick. Onama recovers by circling away, and Santos digs a left to the body to hurt him badly. Santos times an exchange perfectly to dive for an armbar, and Onama spins around wildly to fight off the submission setup and gain top position. Santos is quick to pursue another armbar, and Onama is wise to it and stacks the Brazilian up. Santos snatches up the arm on a third try, and Santos wraps his legs around the head until Onama drags him on his face and stands him up. When they both get to their feet, Onama times a knee right up the middle, and Santos staggers back. Santos works the body, and Onama replies with two knees to the midsection. Onama measures his left hand and clubs his man on the side of the head, and Santos spins and gets popped with a left. In a transition, Santos trips Onama up and plants him on his back. Onama closes up his guard when the Brazilian moves into top position, and Onama is quick to change it up and kick off. This lets him stand, and he gets away with five seconds to spare. One final leaping combination from “Silent Assassin” punctuates the back-and-forth frame.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Santos
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Santos
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Santos

Round 2

The featherweights meet right back to the center of the cage, and Onama has his hands up properly as Santos attacks with a head kick. Santos walks him down and pops him with a spinning back fist and a series of follow-up punches. Onama grits his teeth and slings back with heavy leather, and Santos gets the better of the exchange as Onama turns just slightly. This gives Santos the opportunity to slide around to the back and trip Onama out, where he lands and wraps up back control with a mean body triangle. Onama flails, and he powers his way around to break the grip around his waist and move into top position in a way most could not achieve. Santos threatens with an armbar setup and then a triangle choke, and Onama pushes past them to start unloading with ground-and-pound. Onama lowers himself down heavily when Santos tries to snag hold of a sub, and he works Santos with short punches in the process. Santos bucks, and Onama stands up and dives back on top of him to keep the Brazilian from standing back up. “Mosquintinho” sits up against the fence and wall-walks with him behind him, and he manages to break free. From there, he thanks Onama for the grappling by kicking him square in the gut. Santos goes back to working the body with his fists, and Onama comes back over the top with a pair of punches. Onama opens up with a few jabs, and Santos steps in with a knee and a straight left hand. Onama strafes to his side and sticks Santos with a few punches, and he ducks away when Santos wings a heavy right hand. Santos gets off a leg kick, and Onama cracks his chin with a knee and a short uppercut. When a relentless Santos goes to engage, his bell still rung, Onama scoops an uppercut that crashes square into Santos’ jaw. Santos is out before he even hits the ground, as Onama reaches him with one last right hand on the way down. The Brazilian’s head clatters off the mat as he is out cold, and Onama stands over him mimicking Israel Adesanya by motioning himself firing several arrows at the fallen Santos as Peterson waves the fight off. This is quite a performance for the new Factory X recruit, who becomes the first fighter to knock out the durable Santos.

The Official Result

David Onama def. Gabriel Santos R2 4:13 via KO (Punch)

Austen Lane (245.5) vs. Justin Tafa (266)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Tafa (-175), Lane (+150)

Round 1

The UFC returns to its former approach of placing a very unranked heavyweight slugfest high on the main card, and this one sits in the “featured fight of the night” slot. Making his UFC debut five years after an ill-fated attempt on the Contender Series, Lane (12-3, 0-0 UFC) would like to improve his win streak to seven in a row. Ready and willing to throw hands and feet right back will be Tafa (6-3, 3-3 UFC), and this one has the makings of a rumble that will not last long. Keeping the heavyweights on track will be referee Dan Miragliotta, and they bump their large fists before trying to knock the other’s head into the third row. Tafa, the shorter man, walks down the newcomer and walks into a few pawing left hooks, and he wings a big right hand that buzzes past the hair. Lane keeps his foe on the outside with long punches and a body kick, and as he leans over, he pushes his hand up and his finger goes deep into the eye socket. Tafa screams and bends over, and it is an especially terrible poke. Tafa’s eye starts bleeding, and he cannot open it. Tafa mentioned to the doctor he cannot see, and the physician wipes it out. The doctor tells Miragliotta that Tafa cannot see at all, and Tafa seems to want to continue even blind on one eye. Tafa sits on the stool and tries to clear his vision as half the recovery time has expired. Miragliotta goes to Lane to tell him that it was an accidental foul, and he explains that it would be a no contest because of the accidental foul. The eye begins to swell, and it is unsightly and should not at all resume. With no potential in this fight going on, Miragliotta and the doctor converse and realize this conclusion. This will go down as a no contest, and it remains to be seen the extent of the damage to Tafa – as it looks very, very bad.

The Official Result

Austen Lane vs. Justin Tafa is Ruled a No Contest (Accidental Eye Poke) R1 0:29

Maycee Barber (126) vs. Amanda Ribas (125)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Ribas (-195), Barber (+165)

Round 1

An important flyweight affair sits in the co-main event slot, as both Ribas (11-3, 6-2 UFC) and Barber (12-2, 7-2 UFC) are not far from the title picture at this point. A win could elevate one into loftier heights, and they will have 15 minutes to impose their will and get things done. The two will be joined by referee Keith Peterson, and the ladies decide against a fist bump and will not be allowed to get away with any nonsense. Barber strikes first with a high kick, and Ribas dances out of the way and responds with a kick that drops an off-balance Barber to a knee. Ribas gives chase and spins with a kick to the body to make Barber bounce off the wall, and she reaches out with a right hand when Barber tries to respond with her own kick. Barber aims a few low kicks while Ribas pressures her, and Ribas sticks her with a straight left hand. When Barber bears down on her, Ribas is there to give it right back. Ribas pops her foe on the way out of an exchange, and she goes straight down the pipe with a right hand. Ribas slips and rips with a right hand, and they clash legs at the same time. Ribas pins her foe back with a right hand, and she tags her with another. Barber loads up on a right hook, and Ribas takes flush and keeps pressing her. Barber sneaks an elbow on the inside, and Ribas gets busted up by these elbows from up close. Ribas hunts for a takedown, and Barber stands her up and hacks at her with another elbow. Ribas hits a head and arm toss, and she spins around the right time to keep top position. Barber scrambles, her shoulder covered in Ribas’ blood, and she fights back to her feet. Ribas holds on from behind, and Barber manages to squirm around and tag her with two punches. Ribas leaps forward with a superman punch, and Barber responds with a high kick. Both ladies crack one another with heavy punches, and Ribas pushes off with a kick. Ribas hunts for another head lock throw, and she transitions straight down to a kneebar. Barber turns through it to take top position, and she gets off a few punches even while Ribas is hanging onto her leg. Barber hooks her leg under her knee, and she drives down a few more heavy punches to smear the floor with Ribas’ blood. Barber smashes Ribas in the face while Ribas is content to hold the submission, and Barber sees she has an opening and steps into three-quarter mount in hopes of punching out her opponent. Barber ends the round on top, and Ribas face is drenched in plasma.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Barber
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Barber
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Barber

Round 2

The ladies bump their fists together before getting back to business, and Ribas is the initial aggressor once again as she knocks Barber back with two punches. Ribas gives chase with a front kick, and Barber ducks down in pursuit of a single. Barber shuts it down and scores an elbow up top, and Ribas blasts her in the face and breaks her nose right back. Both ladies are pouring blood from their noses, and they seem otherwise unconcerned. Ribas reaches her foe with a right hand, and she dances out of the way when Barber retaliates. Barber gets in with a pair of punches, and Ribas parries a subsequent high kick. Ribas pops Barber with a combination, and Barber closes in to tie her opponent up. Barber cannot defend against a head lock throw again, and Ribas puts “The Future” on the mat once more. Ribas grabs hold of a can opener, gripping her hands behind the head of her foe and wrenching it up, and Barber works her neck out and strikes from off her back. Barber scoots herself to the wall, and Ribas lands short strikes to the body and head while trying to step over. Barber turns to a knee and stands back up, and she clunks Ribas with two short elbows. Ribas backs off instead of taking more elbows, and they both reset. Barber swings and misses with a left hook, and Ribas walks through a head kick to knock Barber over with a right hand. Barber gathers her thoughts and blasts Ribas with a head kick and some fierce punches, and both women engage in a furious firefight and they hurt one another badly. With Ribas getting the worst of it, she drops down and snatches an ankle, desperate and in trouble. Barber bowls her over and secures the top position, where she begins to punish the Brazilian with punches and elbows. Ribas sits up and holds on for dear life, but Barber is battering her with her right hand and elbow. As Barber keeps wailing on her foe, and Ribas is looking to get up, Peterson halts the fight. It might have been a little premature for some, but Barber has done it, putting Ribas away with strikes in a bloody back-and-forth battle. This is a huge win for “The Future,” who likely vaults herself into the top 10 with that victory.

The Official Result

Maycee Barber def. Amanda Ribas R2 3:42 via TKO (Punches and Elbows)

Josh Emmett (145.5) vs. Ilia Topuria (146)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Topuria (-320), Emmett (+265)

Round 1

We have reached the main event after a fairly lengthy midday event. It should be a treat that presents a great deal of excitement, giving the Jacksonville fans one last brawl. Coming off an unsuccessful shot at the interim strap, Emmett (18-3, 9-3 UFC) wants to show at 38 he is not done yet. On the other side of the equation, 12 years Emmett’s junior, Topuria (13-0, 5-0 UFC) is undefeated and fast on the rise with violence in spades. Chins will almost certainly be tested before it is all said and done, and referee Marc Goddard receives the honor of officiating this hopefully thrilling headliner. There is nothing but respect between the two, as they tap their gloves together before the hostilities commence. Emmett blitzes forward right out of the gate, making the Georgian retreat early as Emmett bears down on him. Topuria is no worse for wear, and Emmett targets the body and head with surges of punches. Emmett circles around his relatively stationary adversary, and he stumbles as he drops low. Emmett gets up and goes back to potshotting Topuria with power range punches. Topuria sits down on a right hand counter, giving Emmett a little pause to advance recklessly. The two start trading furiously from up close, and Topuria backs off and targets the body. Emmett takes a solid right hand on the jaw, and he keeps moving and swaying. Topuria reaches him with an uppercut to the midsection, and he leans back from a swatting combo coming back at him. They trade left hooks, and Topuria flicks out several jabs to mark up Emmett’s face. Emmett throws so hard he nearly falls over, putting everything he has into his punches. Topuria’s guard is able to protect him from the worst of the blows, and he sees the wide looping right hands from afar. Topuria lands a low kick and keeps active with a jab, and he absorbs a flush right hand on the cheek. Topuria drills a kick that makes Emmett turn around, and he intercepts an advancing Emmett with another calf kick and a jab. A cut on the corner of Emmett’s eye opens up, and Emmett ignores it and throws caution to the wins with a chopping kick and an overhand right. Topuria jabs his way into an exchange, and Emmett is right there to stand and bang. Emmett reaches out with a right hand, and he clips Topuria with a check left hook while Topuria is backing away. Topuria closes in and wings two punches, and the tense round comes to a close.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Topuria

Round 2

The second round opens with a glove touch, and the swelling around Emmett’s left eye has grown. Emmett strikes first with a leg kick, and he comes up just short with two looping hooks. Topuria jabs effectively to stifle Emmett’s best offense, and Emmett responds with multiple body shots. Topuria chops at the lead wheel and pokes out with a jab, which reminds Emmett that he can also jab as well. Emmett lunges with a few punches, and the low kick at the end of his strikes connects. Topuria pulls back on a few big strikes, and Emmett closes in and pops him with a left hook. Topuria does not let him off the hook, landing with his own blow. Emmett lumps up the calf with a kick, and he charges in with four punches. Topuria counters him cleanly with a single right hand to make Emmett think twice, and he settles down with a hard low kick. Topuria beats Emmett to the punch with a right hook, and his speed is giving Emmett fits thus far. Emmett checks a low kick and wings a right hand that glances off the side. Topuria is frequently moving when Emmett loads up on his big right hook, and this lets very few of them land flush. The jabs from Topuria have bloodied up Emmett’s nose as well, and it snaps out and is met with a left hook on the way in. Topuria chains a few punches together and backs off when Emmett bullrushes him. Emmett slips on the way in, and Topuria takes advantage of this by smashing him in the face with a right hand. Emmett gets his back against the ropes, and he swings with bad intentions and drops Topuria. The Spanish/Georgian fighter scampers back to his feet and is not overly concerned, and he returns to his tactic of jabs and low kicks. Emmett brushes his right hand over the hair, and he checks a kick on the way back. Topuria slides out of the way of a big shot from Emmett, and he cracks the Californian with a right hand. Emmett drops to his hands, and Topuria rushes down and starts smacking him upside the head. Topuria lets go when Emmett rears back with a right hand, and the second frame wraps.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Topuria

Round 3

The two reach the third round and begin trading, and Topuria slides back and kicks the lead calf of Emmett. Emmett staggers from the damage, and he gathers his thoughts and wings an overhand right. Topuria comes at him throwing two big shots, and Emmett goes high with a kick. Emmett slams his shin on the calf twice, and he jabs Topuria when Topuria closes the distance. Emmett chips with another kick and misses with an overhand right, and Topuria just comes up short with his own counter. As Emmett ducks down to throw him off, Topuria follows him. Emmett catches Topuria with a left hook, and Topuria snipes him with a left hook back and connects with a leg kick. The featherweights crash together with fierce fists, and Emmett tags Topuria with a few huge punches. Topuria gives it right back, and he slashes open a cut on the cheek while also advancing Emmett’s swelling. Emmett stings Topuria with a right hand on the temple, and they clack their shins together with simultaneous kicks. Emmett digs a left to the body, and he is intercepted with a short right hand. Topuria knocks his man back with a jab, and he eats a clean right hand without batting an eye. Topuria measures Emmett with accurate jabs and follow-up punches, while Emmett meets him in the middle and bangs. Emmett walks through a leg kick, and they proceed to swing for the fences. Topuria snaps his jab out brilliantly, and Emmett’s left eye is almost closed. Emmett uses his own jab to decent effect, but its volume is nowhere near the unbeaten fighter’s. Topuria strings a few punches together to bust Emmett’s face up badly, and the side of it is covered in red. Emmett ducks a few punches to counter, and he pops Topuria in the chops with a left hook. Emmett beats Topuria to the punch with a right hand, and he waves Topuria on to brawl with him. Emmett overswings with his punches, and he targets the body and lead calf as the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Emmett
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Emmett

Round 4

We have ourselves a fight as the two reach the championship rounds, and they clap hands to get started. Emmett wades into the fray, landing at the end of a few punches as Topuria’s movement has slowed to a small degree. Emmett blitzes, and Topuria hops out of the way to evade most of the strikes. Topuria sticks out a jab, and he pins a one-two on the chin when Emmett chops at his calf. Topuria flicks out a few more jabs, and Emmett goes over the top with a big right. Topuria continues to work his jab, and Emmett aims a punch to the chest and one to the ribs. Topuria nails his foe with a leg kick, and Emmett has to hop back for a second to get his bearings. Emmett reaches out with a right hook, but Topuria is able to lean back and zip out a few jabs and a one-two. Emmett looks for a left to the body, and he gets his calf kicked and he squats down after it lands hard. Emmett rushes with looping shots that Topuria is able to avoid without problems, and when that one fails, he blitzes a second time. The body shot from Emmett does score, and Topuria’s jab snaps Emmet’s head back. Topuria times a big right hand to counter with one of his own, and he spins away before Emmett can reach him. Two punches from Topuria knock Emmett off-balance, and he learns that he is in trouble before his body does. Emmett falls to the ground, and Topuria beats on him in an effort to stop the fight. Emmett’s toughness is off the charts, as he survives the barrage of unanswered punches and gets back to his feet. Emmett climbs up with the fence behind him and wings power punches, but Topuria is faster and more accurate. A vicious leg kick and second flurry from “El Matador” knocks Emmett of his feet again, and he jumps straight into mount and tries to finish the job with his fists. Topuria drops down punches and hammerfists, and Emmett turns to his stomach and manages to survive to the bell.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Topuria
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Topuria
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Topuria

Round 5

Between rounds, Goddard calls in the doctor to check on the swelling and damage of Emmett’s face. Emmett is able to pass the vision tests, and he informs Goddard he is more than willing to keep fighting despite his disfigurement. The two featherweights touch ‘em up one final time to begin the last round, and Emmett is a man possessed. Emmett charges with everything he has, and he rocks Topuria with a huge right hand. Topuria bounces off the fencing several times, in a surprisingly bad way, and Emmett gives chase swinging bombs. Emmett checks a kick, and Topuria gets back to his rhythm of jabs and calf kicks. Emmett hops around to get some feeling back in his leg, and he kicks with his other one. Emmett walks through a jab to lob a left hook, and he is throwing haymakers that Topuria is barely dodging. Emmett whiffs on a huge left hand, and he kicks the calf while Topuria is jabbing him. Emmett strikes the body and fires off massive hooks, and Topuria sees them coming and blocks them. Emmett reaches Topuria with a shovel left hook, and Topuria keeps moving so that he does not present as a stationary target. Emmett goes to the body with a left and bring a right over the top, and he swings with a subsequent left that opens him up to a takedown attempt. Topuria lands in half guard from his successful double, and Emmett turns to his side and works to a knee. Emmett wipes at his badly swollen eye as Topuria holds on from behind, although he cannot explode back up to his feet. Topuria clings to Emmett as precious seconds tick off the clock, and he manages to hit a mat return. Emmett scrambles, and the two roll around until Topuria follows to get the back again. Emmett works his way up, thanks in part to a fence grab, and Topuria wrenches him right back down. Topuria takes the back and flattens Emmett out for a moment, but Emmett turns to his side once more as he uses all of his last remaining energy to get up. Topuria punches Emmett on the side of the head a few more times for good measure, and Emmett muscles his way to his feet right at the sound of the final bell. These two featherweights have gone the distance after five violent rounds, and the stock of the younger Topuria is going to climb significantly after this excellent showing. Topuria will advance himself to a clean 14-0 as a pro, with two decision wins on his ledger now. In victory, “El Matador” declares himself as “the next guy” for the featherweight belt, and he wants to take on Alexander Volkanovski to become the first one to beat him at this weight class. There is little time to savor this, as the UFC train will keep on rolling. The next show will be in the UFC Apex in a week, and we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

Sherdog Scores

Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Topuria (49-45 Topuria)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Topuria (50-45 Topuria)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Topuria (49-46 Topuria)

The Official Result

Ilia Topuria def. Josh Emmett via Unanimous Decision (50-44, 50-42, 49-45)