UFC 278 ‘Usman vs. Edwards 2’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring

Victor Altamirano (125) vs. Daniel Lacerda (126)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Altamirano (-200), Lacerda (+170)

Round 1

The curtain jerker on the UFC 278 card features a pair of flyweights in search of their first promotional triumph. Dave Seljestad gets the first ref assignment of the evening. Altamirano rushes forward and lands a kick to the body before dodging a high kick. He catches a kick from Lacerda. We’re at a high pace early, and Lacerda drops his opponent with a straight right and then tags him with another right on the ground. Altamirano returns to his feet, and Lacerda connects with a spinning back fist as his foe retreats. Altamirano seems to have recovered and he steps in with a knee. Lacerda answers with a knee and a punching combination. Altamirano kicks to the body. Moments later, Altamirano hurts Lacerda with a knee to the body and powers him to the canvas, where he unloads with punches and elbows from above. Lacerda frames an armbar, but Altamirano escapes and has cuts his adversary open with those elbows. More vicious elbows arrive from Altamirano, and most are getting through Lacerda’s guard. Altamirano continues his assault and the Brazilian gets a warning to work from the official, who is giving Lacerda a pretty long leash. Lacerda is just covering up now as Altamirano switches to standing-to-ground punches. A bloodied Lacerda isn’t offering much in the way of intelligent defense now, and finally Seljestad steps in to wave off the contest. Altamirano has his first Octagon triumph.

The Official Result

Victor Altamirano def. Daniel Lacerda via TKO (Punches) R1 3:39

Qileng Aori (136) vs. Jay Perrin (136)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Aori (-175), Perrin (+130)

Round 1

Former W.A.R.S champion Aori locks horns with ex-Cage Titans ruler Perrin in a bantamweight clash that will be overseen by Tyler Tomlinson. Gloves are touched and we’re underway. Perrin misses the mark on a combination early and a “USA” chant breaks out. Perrin with a quick leg kick. A left hook to the body lands for Perrin and Aori catches the ensuing kick. He releases the grip and sticks a straight right hand. Perrin pressures with a combination, but Aori moves out of danger. It’s a very measured beginning for Aori, who tags Perrin with another straight right. Perrin rushes forward and gets staggered with a short, counter left hook. Aori looks for an opening, backs his man up and launches a flying knee. That allows Perrin to force the clinch and turn Aori into the cage. Aori breaks free and swings heavy punches, including an uppercut he sneaks under Perrin’s left. Aori stalks his foe and lands a couple heavy punches. Perrin looks to clinch, but Aori quickly breaks free. A nice two-punch combination finds the mark for “The Mongolian Murderer.” A leg kick connects for Perrin. Aori lands a hard leg kick and avoids Perrin’s rush. Perrin lands a leaping knee but eats a left hook on the exit. Perrin changes levels, connects the hands and plants Aori on the mat with 20 seconds left. Perrin passes to half guard and then stands to land a few punches before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Aori
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Aori
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Aori

Round 2

Perrin just misses a snap kick up the middle. Aori steps in with a body-head combo. Perrin shakes off a jumping knee from Aori and waggles his finger. Perrin catches a low kick fro Aori and capitalizes with a takedown. He dives into top position about a minute in, working from half guard. Aori recovers full guard and slides to the cage, where he wall walks to his knees. Perrin still has his hands locked, but he moves Aori to his feet. Aori reverses position and separates, which prompts a glove touch from Perrin halfway through the round. A short counter right clips Perrin, who seems to recover quickly. Another counter right lands following a Perrin combination. A glancing right lands for Aori and Perrin shakes his head before blitzing forward. Aori is economical with his offense, but is doing the most damage. A hard calf kick lands for Aori, but Perrin keeps the pressure on and gets in on a single leg. Aori defends nicely with his back to the cage. Aori breaks and dodges an elbow. A straight to the body lands for Aori and then a counter right moments later. Perrin keeps wading forward and throwing punches unitl the horn, and a few find the mark.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Aori
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Aori
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Aori

Round 3

The combatants touch gloves again before the final stanza. Perrin pressures with a kick to the body, but then gets tagged with a short counter right. They’re trading early, and then it’s Aori who shoots. Perrin stuffs it and shoves his foe into the fence. Perrin with a short elbow in close as he grinds away. Aori separates and returns to the center of the Octagon. Perrin lands a glancing jab. Perrin switches stances and steps in with a left hook. Perrin keeps the pressure on and lands a knee in close. He doesn’t give Aori any space and he gets a takedown. Aori hustles to his feet in a hurry and Perrin presses him into the fence, landing a knee to the body. Perrin drops for a double leg and briefly gets Aori to a knee. He keeps the pressure on and lands a couple short punches and a knee in close quarters. Perrin drops low for another takedown, but Aori stuffs it. Perrin creates an opening to land a short elbow. Aori is staying stuck on the fence this round, allowing Perrin to impose his will a little more than in previous frames. Perrin again thinks about a takedown, but Aori isn’t having it. Finally Aori breaks free with about a minute to go. Perrin pressures with punches and eats a counter right. Perrin lands a leg kick and then tries his luck with a spinning back fist. A straight right lands for Aori, but Perrin answers with a front kick down the middle. Aori stuffs an ensuing takedown shot, but he’s pressed into the fence, and Perrin separates and is teeing off with punches in the waning moments of the round. It’s spirited action in the final seconds, and Perrin appears to have Aori reeling as several solid punches land. The Chinese fighter survives the assault, but it’s a strong finish for Perrin.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Perrin (29-28 Aori)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Perrin (29-28 Aori)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Perrin (29-28 Aori)

The Official Result

Qileng Aori def. Jay Perrin via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) R3 5:00

Amir Albazi (126) vs. Francisco Figueiredo (125.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Albazi (-390), Figueiredo (+320)

Round 1

Iraq native Albazi has lost just once in 15 professional appearances, a run that includes a pair of victories in UFC competition. Figueiredo is best known as the younger brother of UFC flyweight champ Deiveson, but he’s trying to blaze his own trail with two wins in three Octagon appearances. Referee Dave Seljestead gets his second cage assignment of the evening. Figueiredo misses on a body kick and he’s employing a kick-heavy attack early with strikes to the legs and body. A leg kick lands for the Brazilian as Albazi looks to close the distance. Another low kick for Figueiredo. Figueiredo with a left kick to the body, and a follow-up offering is caught. Albazi catches another low kick and shoves Figueiredo to the mat, assuming top position in his opponent’s full guard. Albazi postures up and drops a slashing elbow. Albazi stands momentarily and dives back into guard. Albazi keeps the pressure on from above as Figueiredo attempts to create space with his legs. Albazi looks quite powerful, however. Albazi stands and drops three heavy punches, which forces Figueiredo to scramble back up. They’re in the clinch, battling for position int he center of the cage before separating. Figueiredo lands a clean left before Albazi forces a tie-up. Figueiredo gets a warning for a cage grab, but Albazi takes him down moments later. Figueiredo looks to frame a leg lock and Albazi drops a big right. Albazi frees his leg and takes his foe’s back. In a matter of moments, Albazi secures a body triangle and slides his arm under Figueiredo’s chin. The Brazilian asks out of the fight seconds later. That’s nine career submission victories for “The Prince.”

The Official Result

Amir Albazi def. Francisco Figueiredo via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) R1 4:34

A.J. Fletcher (170.5) vs. Ange Loosa (170.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Fletcher (-150), Loosa (+130)

Round 1

Fletcher will attempt to rebound after suffering his first career defeat in his Octagon debut, while Loosa looks to improve upon a stretch in which he has lost three of his last five in a matchup of Contender Series veterans. Fletcher lands a right hand followed by a leg kick. Fletcher is pressuring early with punches. Loosa with a low kick of his own. Fletcher steps in and connects with a nice lead elbow. Fletcher misses the mark on a hook kick that draws a gasp from the crowd. Loosa with a nice body kick. Loosa catches a front kick but releases it quickly. Fletcher follows a crisp combination with a front kick. Fletcher is countering Loosa effectively at every turn thus far. Fletcher with a two-piece combination to the body. Fletcher with a left hook-right uppercut to the body combination. Another right to the body lands for Fletcher. Fletcher steps in and lands an elbow. Loosa jabs to the body and kicks at the legs, but he is forced to block an ensuing high kick by Fletcher. A big right finds for mark for Loosa and Fletcher is momentarily stunned. He recovers in short order, but Loosa sticks another long right hand and another right after that. Loosa is gaining confidence now, and he follows a Fletcher kick with a flurry of punches. Loosa forces the clinch, and he lands short rights in close. Loosa is finding the mark on his right hand repeatedly. With five seconds left Loosa leaves his stamp on the round with a takedown.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Loosa
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Loosa
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Loosa

Round 2

Fletcher opens up with a combination. Loosa has a head kick blocked. Loosa counters a leg kick with a few right hands. Loosa continues to look relaxed and confident. Loosa sticks a jab and then another nice combination. Fletcher is still moving forward, but he’s absorbing a lot of shots. Fletcher with a calf kick and he slips Loosa’s counter. Both men land right hands in an exchange. Loosa with a couple kicks to the body and Fletcher answers, which prompts Loosa to change levels. He can’t keep Fletcher down for long. They’re back to trading punches, and Loosa lands an uppercut in close quarters. Fletcher is wearing the damage, and Loosa lands another combination. Fletcher is still moving forward and now Fletcher hurts Loosa and he tees off with power punches against the fence. Loosa shoots out of desperation. Fletcher stuffs it and continues to unload as he sprawls. Loosa turns his back and Fletcher keeps the heat on. Suddenly, Fletcher shifts gears and changes levels for a takedown. Loosa defends, as Fletcher has to be worn out from the barrage of punches he released. Fletcher just clings to a single leg. Normally this would give Loosa an opportunity to land serious ground-and-pound, but he’s just laying on top of his foe in an attempt to recover. The round ends this way, with both men attempting to recover their respective gas tanks and bearings.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Fletcher
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Fletcher
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Fletcher

Round 3

We’ll see how much each man has left after a frenetic second round. Loosa lands a combination and Fletcher answers with an elbow. Fletcher slips on a front kick, but he’s able to return to his feet. Loosa lands a knee to the body followed by a right hand. Loosa is just touching Fletcher with combinations. Fletcher shoots for a sloppy takedown. Loosa sprawls, spins around to the back and lands a series of punches. Fletcher recovers guard, but Loosa punishes him with a series of elbows. Fletcher is cut up, and referee Mike Beltran is taking a close look. Loosa maintains top control, but his offense has slowed. It doesn’t seem to matter, because Fletcher is exhausted and can do nothing from his back. Loosa is staying just busy enough, though his ground-and-pound doesn’t have much steam behind it. The Salt Lake City crowd is growing restless due to the lack of action on the mat, but these welterweights are spent. Loosa mixes up some punches to the head and body. Another shot elbow lands for Loosa. Fletcher attempts to sit up, but Loosa shoves him back down and lands another elbow. It’s one way traffic, but it doesn’t appear that Loosa has enough in the tank to secure a finish. The fight ends with more punches and elbows from Loosa on a helpless Fletcher.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Loosa (29-27 Loosa)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-8 Loosa (29-27 Loosa)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Loosa (29-28 Loosa)

The Official Result

Ange Loosa def. A.J. Fletcher via Unanimous Decision (29-27, 29-28, 29-28) R3 5:00

Luis Saldana (145.5) vs. Sean Woodson (146)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Woodson (-305), Saldana (+255)

Round 1

Fight Ready product Saldana has won two of three Octagon appearances since appearing on the Contender Series, while fellow Contender Series alum Woodson carries a 3-1 UFC mark into this featherweight matchup. The 6-foot-2 Woodson will enjoy a five-inch reach advantage over his opponent. Mike Beltran will be the third man in the cage. Saldana probes with a front kick early. Woodson is warned to watch his fingers. Saldana avoids a big right from his foe and continues to employ a kick heavy attack against his rangy foe. Woodson throws some long punches and a cople leg kicks as he tries to find the range. Woodson counters a body kick with a right hand and Saldana nods in acknowledgement. A leg kick lands for Saldana. A glancing body kick lands for Woodson. Saldana kicks at the body. Woodson stumbles forward and falls to the canvas after Saldana lands a check hook. Saldana doesn’t go in for the kill, instead allowing Woodson returns to his feet. A left jab sends Woodson to his seat. Saldana, with arms outstretched, makes a serious error by stepping in and landing a knee to his downed opponent. He thinks the fight is over for a moment, but Beltran lets him know it’s a foul. A point is taken and the action resumes after a minute and a half. An oblique kick lands for Saldana. Woodson moves forward behind a job and body kick, and he secures a body lock. Saldana reverses position and separates. Saldana takes Woodson’s legs out from under him briefly with a low kick. Woodson kicks at the body. Saldana moves in with an overhand right and a right hook. Saldana launches himself off the fence with a superman punch and they trade punches until the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 9-9
Tyler Treese scores the round: 9-9
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 9-9

Round 2

Saldana kicks the body and Woodson misses a counter. Saldana with an oblique kick to the knee followed by a leg kick. Another leg kick for Saldana. A body kick lands for Saldana as Woodson moves forward. A stiff left jab by Woodson snaps his opponent’s head back. Woodson switches to southpaw and lands a left. Saldana whiffs on a wild spinning back fist. He kicks at Woodson’s legs again. Woodson works behind his jab, but Saldana’s head movement is solid. Saldana lands a nice left jab. Saldana ducks under a Woodson punch for a nicely-timed takedown at about the 2:15 mark. He’s inside Woodson’s guard. Woodson is framing an omaplata, but Salanda escapes. Saldana now finds himself trapped in a buggy choke, though, and it looks like he might be in trouble here. Saldana is doing all he can to alleviate the pressure on his neck, but he’s got another minute to survive. Woodson holds on to the choke, but it looks like Saldana will hang on. He give Beltran the thumbs up as the round draws to a close.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Woodson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Woodson
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Woodson

Round 3

Woodson opens up with a left hook. Woodson forces the clinch, but they quickly separate. Saldana lands a hard low kick. Woodson counters a front kick with a straight left. Woodson counters Saldana with a right and then lands a nice jab. Saldana shoots for a takedown and shoves his man into the fence. Woodson maintains his balance as Saldana thinks about taking the back. Woodson breaks the grip and Saldana misses a spinning back fist on the exit. A straight right lands for Woodson. Saldana changes levels again and shoves Woodson into the fence. Woodson separates and circles away. The pace has slowed significantly, and Saladana misses another spinning back fist. A leg kick connects for Saldana. Saldana with a body kick. The exchanges are pretty slow and sloppy now, as both men appear to be fatigued. Saldana feints a shot and then lands an uppercut. Another spinning back fist for Saldana, but it’s blocked. Saldana is stuffed on a shot and pulls Woodson on top of him. Woodson threatens with a choke briefly, but Saldana scrambles to his feet. That’ll bring a merciful conclusion to the bout.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Saldana (28-28)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Saldana (28-28)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Saldana (28-28)

The Official Result

Luis Saldana vs. Sean Woodson is declared a Split Draw (29-27, 27-29, 28-28) R3 5:00

Jared Gordon (155.5) vs. Leonardo Santos (156)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Gordon (-305), Santos (+255)

Round 1

The 42-year-old Santos will look to turn things around after an 0-2 2021, while Gordon had a three-fight winning streak snapped by Grant Dawson in his first outing of 2022. Herb Dean will oversee the lightweight clash. Santos will enjoy a seven-inch reach edge here. Gordon beings with a two-punch combination. Santos responds with a body kick. Santos with an inside leg kick. It’s a measured beginning, with very little action in the first two minutes. Santos can’t find the range on a front kick, and Gordon pressures forward but eats a knee up the middle. Gordon is struggling to find the range more than halfway through the round, but he does land a leg kick. Gordon rushes forward and lands a right hand. Santos counters Gordon with a knee up the middle. Another low kick for Gordon. Santos kicks at the body. Santos blocks a high kick. Gordon is getting a little more aggressive. He tags Santos with an uppercut and flurries with body work against the fence. Gordon gets a body lock and presses Santos into the cage. More short shots to the body by Gordon in the linch. Gordon moves forward, digs to the body and ties up with Santos. He lands a few punches to the head in the clinch before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Gordon
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gordon
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Gordon

Round 2

Santos probes with a push kick, but it misses the mark. Gordon lands a leg kick and misses a combination to the head. Gordon closes the distance and shoves Santos into the fence. they separate quickly, but Gordon resets. Santos circles off and lands a knee down the middle. Gordon with a couple punches to the head as he wades forward. Gordon moves in with a combination, then backs away, a pattern that is repeating multiple times this round. Santos responds with a high kick on one of those entries, but mostly it’s Gordon moving forward and pressing the action. Santos shoots for a takedown and it drives Gordon into the fence. Santos is working his way to the back, but Gordon uses a couple fence grabs to his advantage and he turns the Brazilian into the fence. No it’s Gordon grinding away in the clinch. Gordon creates space to briefly dig to the body with punches before clinching with Santos again. Gordon with a couple punches to the head, then a few to the body. Finally, Santos turns and escapes. Gordon closes distance behind some right hands and shoves Santos into the fence yet again. Gordon rips the body as Santos seems content to hold his opponent’s head. Santos breaks free and Gordon moves forward. Santos lands a decent counter right hand in an exchange. The lightweights are content to stand at range in the last 15 seconds before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Gordon
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gordon
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Gordon

Round 3

Santos lands a front kick and Gordon counters with a punching combination. Gordon goes upstairs with a right hand. He remains on the attack with a trio of kicks to the inside leg of Santos. Gordon remains on the offensive as he moves forward with a combination to the head. Santos backs up and eats another combination. Gordon jabs through Santos guard, then works the body. More combinations land for Gordon, who is in a rhythm, though not necessarily threatening to finish the fight. Gordon rips the body and clinches with Santos. Snatos is on the fence, eating body shots. Santos frees himself and eats a few jabs. Gordon with a body-head combination. Gordon remains in Santos face, pressuring with combinations. “Flash” forces the clinch and lands punches on the break. Moments later, it’s another body shot and brief clinch from Gordon. Santos times a level change under a Gordon punch, but his opponent sprawls nicely. Santos is just hanging on while on the mat. Gordon mixes up punches to the head and ribs while the Brazilian clings to his legs. Gordon with more hammerfists and Dean urges Santos to work. Santos gets to his feet and shoves Gordon into the cage as time winds down. Santos leans on Gordon and the crowd voices its displeasure. Santos attempts a spinning back elbow on the break, but Gordon responds with a punching combination just before the end of the round.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Gordon (30-27 Gordon)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Gordon (30-27 Gordon)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Gordon (30-27 Gordon)

The Official Result

Jared Gordon def. Leonardo Santos via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) R3 5:00

Alexander Romanov (239.5) vs. Marcin Tybura (252.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Romanov (-325), Tybura (+275)

Round 1

The undefeated Romanov will face his toughest test to date against Tybura, a former M-1 Global champion and battle-tested UFC veteran. Jason Herzog gets his first assignment of the night with the big men. Both men open in their southpaw stance. Romanov ties up with Tyburga and shoves him into the fence. Romanov works his way to the back, lifts Tybura and slams him to the canvas. Tybura is on all fours as Romanov makes him carry his weight. Romanov knees the thighs a couple times, then finds an opening for a right hand. Romanov powers Tybura to the mat and he lands a series of six or seven right hands as Tybura attempts to work his way back up. Tybura stands, but Romanov maintains his grip. Romanov lands several knees to the back of his foe’s thigh. Romanov pulls his man off the cage and suplexes him to the mat. Tybura is on a knee, still carrying Romanov’s weight. Romanov with right hands to the head as he controls Tybura’s right arm. It’s pure domination, and Romanov continues to hammer away with short right hands. Herzog is letting Tybura continue, but this has been completely lopsided. Romanov continues to wear on Tybura, who is on all fours. Romanov switches to knees to the thighs and ends with a few more punches to the head.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-8 Romanov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-8 Romanov
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-8 Romanov

Round 2

Romanov immediately closes the distance, but Tybura separates from the clinch. Romanov partially lands a spinning back elbow. The Moldovan forces the clinch behind a right hand and Tybura’s back is on the fence. Romanov lands a knee to the gut. Tybura throws an elbow and they break. Tybura looks for an opening at range, but he misses the mark on his punches. A left from Tybura clips Romanov, and the pace has slowed significantly for Romanov. Tuybura denies a level change and lands some punches. Romanov’s entries into the clinch are being denied more frequently. Tybura lands a front kick that causes a pause in the action, but Herzog points out that the blow landed mostly to the midsection and the fight resumes. Romanov slips on a high kick and Tybura follows his foe to the canvas. Tybura passes to side control as Romanov holds him close. Tybura with a few short punches to the head. Romanov appears content to hang on, while Tybura lands a knee to the body. Tybura moves to north-south position, and he punches the ribs. Tybura mixes his punches between the ribs and the stomach. Tybura moves back to side control and then transitions to the back. Romanov slips out the back, and he ends the round with some heavy shots to the side of Tybura’s head.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Tybura
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Tybura
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Tybura

Round 3

Romanov wants a hug, and Tybura obliges at the beginning of the round. Romanov with a half hearted leg kick. Romanov with a little Ali shuffle, and then the heavyweights trade body kicks. They clinch and Romanov exits with a knee. Tybura lands a front kick down the middle and Romanov answers with a leg kick. Tybura keeps it going with a two-punch combination, one of his better offerings of the night. Tybura lands a leg kick and Romanov misses a wild spinning kick and then follows up with a spinning back fist that also misses the mark. Tybura moves in and out, landing a right on the exit. Tybura lands another right hand, and Romanov sticks his jab. A looping right hand lands for Romanov, and Tybura digs to the body. Romanov moves in and lands a knee to the body. Tybura lands a slow front kick down the middle. Romanov lands a nice leg kick and eats a counter from Tybura. Tybura continues to plod forward, keeping Romanov on the defensive with punching combinations and the occasional kick. Romanov throws some looping shots that miss the mark. Tybura resses forward and lands a right. Romanov presses the action in response but can’t connect on a superman punch before the end of the period.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Tybura (28-28)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Tybura (28-28)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Tybura (28-28)

The Official Result

Marcin Tybura def. Alexander Romanov via Majority Decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28) R3 5:00

Harry Hunsucker (204.5) vs. Tyson Pedro (205.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Pedro (-740), Hunsucker (+540)

Round 1

Hunsucker moves to 205 pounds after a pair of knockout losses at heavyweight. He’ll be the biggest underdog on the card against Pedro, who returned from a three-plus year absence to KO Isaac Villanueva in April. Mike Beltran will officiate the pay-per-view opener. Hunsucker pressures with a couple punches but Pedro avoids the attack easily. An inside leg kick lands for Hunsucker, who looks trim at light heavyweight. A jab from Pedro puts Hunsucker on unsteady legs, and the Aussie backs his adversary up with an ensuing two-punch combination. The City Kickboxing product then doubles his opponent over with a push kick to the midsection, and Hunsucker crumbles to the floor. Pedro swarms with about four or five more follow-up punches before Beltran steps in to save Hunsucker.

The Official Result

Tyson Pedro def. Harry Hunsucker via TKO (Body Kick and Punches) R1 1:05

Lucie Pudilova (135.5) vs. Yanan Wu (136)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Pudilova (-155), Wu (+135)

Round 1

In a curious pay-per-view pairing, Wu will attempt to halt a three-bout skid against Pudilova, who exited the UFC on a four-fight losing streak but has since won five of her last six under the Oktagon MMA banner. Herb Dean will keep the fighters in line. Pudilova absorbs a kick and shoots for a double leg. Wu defends and turns off the cage. They trade knees in the clinch and then separate. A leg kick lands for Wu. Another leg kick for Wu, who circles away. Pudilova changes levels and gets the takedown this time. She stands and dives in with a hammerfist. Wu tries to set up an armbar, but Pudliova passes to half guard. Pudilova transitions to side control. Pudilova is heavy on top, although there is no ground-and-pound to be seen. Dean wants Pudilova to do some work. Pudilova drops an elbow. Despite the warning, Pudilova hasn’t attempted many strikes, instead opting to control position. Pudilova wants to pass to mount, but instead ends on Wu’s back as the Chinese fighter stands. Pudilova presses Wu into the fence. Pudilova lands a knee to the midsection before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Pudilova
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Pudilova
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Pudilova

Round 2

Pudilova begins with a couple inside leg kicks. Pudilova lands a left in an exchange. Wu steps in and connects with a combination. The bantamweights trade leg kicks. Wu kicks the body of her opponent and then comes in with a combination. Wu attacks the lead leg of Pudilova again. Pudilova closes the distance and shoves Wu into the fence, but they separate quickly. The leg kick duel resumes. They clinch again and Pudilova is able to execute a head and arm throw. Pudilova spins to Wu’s back and quickly gets both hooks in while hunting for a rear-naked choke. Wu is able to fight off the hands of her opponent and scramble out of the predicament. Pudilova maintains top position, floating to side control. A couple elbows land for Pudilova from above. Pudilova passes to mount and Wu gives up her back. Pudilova picks up the intensity of her attack, dropping a series of ferocious elbows. Wu can do nothing more than cover up. After about eight to 10 unanswered blows land, Dean waves off the fight.

The Official Result

Lucie Pudilova def. Yanan Wu via TKO (Elbows) R2 4:04

Jose Aldo (136) vs. Merab Dvalishvili (136)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Dvalishvili (-125), Aldo (+105)

Round 1

Dvalishvili has been an absolute mauler in winning seven consecutive UFC appearances. He could punch his ticket to a championship opportunity by besting ex-featherweight king Aldo, whose three straight bantamweight triumphs have him knocking on the door of his second title shot at 135 pounds. Jason Herzog will oversee this pivotal bout. Aldo takes the center of the Octagon. Dvalishvili opens up with a spinning high kick that Aldo blocks. The crowd is chanting for Aldo early on and it’s deafening. Dvalishvili is closing the distance, and he shoots against the fence. Aldo hopes on one leg and escapes. Aldo jabs at the body of his foe. Dvalishvili with a leg kick and Aldo answers with one that spins his opponent around. Aldo catches Dvalishvili coming in with a knee. Dvalishvili kicks the leg of Aldo again. Aldo is patient, looking for his opening. Aldo throws a push kick and Dvalishvili closes the distance behind a combination. He looks for a single leg against the fence. Aldo defends as Dvalishvili lands some knees to the thighs. Dvalishvili breaks free and lands a nice left. They’re back at range, and Aldo lands a nice left to the body. Nice timing on a knee from Aldo and Dvalishvili kicks at the legs of his foe again. Dvalishvili misses a spinning kick. Dvalishvili pressures with a couple leg kicks. Aldo flicks out a jab that misses the mark. Aldo just misses a combinationand he leaps in with a knee to the body. Dvalishvili is unfazed and he puffs up and walks toward Aldo before the horn. Close round.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Aldo
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Aldo
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili

Round 2

Aldo moves in with a left hook. Dvalishvili counters a low kick with a right hand. Aldo lands a jab. Dvalishvili times a single leg and shoves Aldo into the cage. Aldo remains upright as Dvalishvili knees the left leg of his opponent. Dvalishvili continues to knee the thighs and Aldo throws the occasional punch to the side of the head from this position. Aldo looks frustrated, but there’s no sign of a separation. They return to the center of the cage. Aldo rips at the body and just misses a high kick. Dvalishvili shoots again. Aldo’s takedown defense is stellar, as Dvalishvili has yet to land an official attempt. Still, he’s controlling positioning and he lands a shoulder strike. They separate, and Aldo throws a heavy hook. Moments later Dvalishvili shoots again and presses Aldo into the fence. It’s more of the same, with Dvalishvili grinding away against the fence. Dvalishvili backs away and quickly changes levels, but it’s a nice sprawl by Aldo. Aldo jabs the body. A leg kick lands for Aldo. Aldo misses a right and Dvalishvili shoves him into the fence. Aldo shoves him off and steps inwith a knee. Dvalishvili resets and shoots again, and the round ends in the clinch again.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili

Round 3

This one could be up for grabs. Dvalishvili shoots right away, but Aldo shoves him away. Dvalishvili lands a clean right hand at range, perhaps his best punch of the fight. Aldo circles with Dvalishvili stalking him near the fence. Dvalishvili lands a leg kick, and Aldo answers with a knee to the body. Dvalishvili keeps the pressure on. Aldo sticks a jab and Dvalishvili kicks the legs again. A solid left lands for Aldo. They clinch, but only for a moment. Dvalishvili shoots and lands a right on the break. Dvalishvili pressures forward with a combination. Aldo circles away. Aldo needs to up his output, but Dvalishvili is the one applying pressure. Dvalishvili throws a combination and Aldo shrugs it off. Dvalishvili is staying busy, throwing strikes, even if not everything is landing. Aldo lands a lead left hook. Dvalishvili shoots for another takedown and gives up on the single leg. Dvalishvili closes the distance again and presses Aldo into the cage. More knees to the thighs follow for Dvalishvili. He tries to toss Aldo to the mat, but the Brazilian retains his footing. Dvalishvili gets Aldo to a knee but only for a second. Dvalishvili keeps his grip and he stays busy with knees to the thighs. The crowd doesn’t like it, but Dvalishvili is doing what he needs to do. Aldo keeps a hand down to avoid a knee to the head. Dvalishvili is content to knee away at the thighs. They separate late in the round, but neither man gets off any offense before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili (29-28 Dvalishvili)
Tyler Treese scores the round:10-9 Dvalishvili (29-28 Dvalishvili)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Dvalishvili (30-27 Dvalishvili)

The Official Result

Merab Dvalishvili def. Jose Aldo via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27) R3 5:00

Paulo Costa (185.5) vs. Luke Rockhold (185.5)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Costa (-295), Rockhold (+245)

Round 1

Ex-UFC and Strikeforce champ Rockhold will return to action for the first time in more than three years. He doesn’t get a soft matchmaking touch in his comeback fight, as he’ll square off against former middleweight title challenger Paulo Costa, who avoided issues with the scales this time around. Mike Beltran is the third man in the cage for the co-main event. Rockhold noticeably has a sleeve on his left leg. Rockhold is throwing kicks early, including a leg kick and a front kic. Costa appears to hurt Rockhold as he moves forward, and he tees off with shots on Rockhold in the clinch. Rockhold breaks free and circles on the outside. Costa with a clubbing right and a left, and he takes Rockhold down. Costa is neutralized in Rockhold’s guard. The Brazilian looks to posture so he can land some ground-and-pound. Costa passes to mount and Rockhold briefly grabs a guillotine in a scramble. Costa frees his head and is on top in half guard. Costa lands a series of punches to the body as Rockhold holds him close. Costa moves to mount with ease. Rockhold explodes and sneaks out the back. He lands a knee and a right hook and they’re at range. Rockhold misses a high kick but connects on about four hard body kicks to the body. Costa urges him on. Rockhold’s nose is pouring blood as he breathes from his mouth. Costa forces the clinch against the fence, but Rockhold gets free. He throws another power kick to the liver and Costa eats it. Costa stalks but Rockhold lands a nice right late in the period.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Costa
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Costa
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Costa

Round 2

Rockhold already looks gassed as the round begins. Rockhold with a nice straight left and he taggs Costa with another. Costa counters with a left and Rockhold gets a takedown near the fence. Costa scrambles up and is working on taking Rockhold’s back. Rockhold is grimacing as he shoves Costa away. Costa lands a left hook and Rockhold answers with a right hook. Costa kicks the body and Rockhold looks exhausted. His mouth is wide open, but he lands a spinning back kick to the body. A 360 roundhouse kick lands to the body for Rockhold. Then Rockhold lands a left hand in close. The middleweights trade high kicks and punches. Rockhold puts his hands on his knees then lands a body kick and a leg kick. Costa moves forward and lands a body kick. Beltran calls time and warns Rockhold to watch his fingers. The fight resumes and Rockhold lands a body kick. Costa jabs to the body. Costa blocks a high kick. Costa just misses a spinning high kick. Costa moves in to attack against the fence, but a punch lands on the cup and Rockhold falls to the mat in agony. Beltran sees it and calls time. The respite could be a blessing for Rockhold. The middleweights get a warning and we’re back underway. Rockhold just misses a high kick. Rockhold feints a spinning attack. Rockhold lands a leg kick and a spinning back kick to the body. Costa answers with a hard low kick. Costa with a body kick and Rockhold responds with a backfist. Rockhold ducks a combination before the horn and puts his hands on his knees.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Costa
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Costa
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Costa

Round 3

Costa is back to stalking Rockhold, and he follows a body kick with a left hook to the head. Costa misses a spinning attack and Rockhold makes him stumble to the floor with a punch. Rockhold tries to follow him to the canvas, but Costa scrambles up. They trade heavy punches and then Costa lands a body kick. A jab from Costa snaps Rockhold’s head back. Rockhold whiffs awkwardly and turns his back to Costa. A huge left from Rockhold momentarily makes Costa stumble back. Rockhold follows a body kick with another left hand. Costa keeps moving forward. Costa sprawls on a Rockhold shot, and now the Brazilian scrambles into side control. That was a bad decision for Rockhold. Costa grinds his elbow into Rockhold’s chin and maintains heavy top pressure. Costa looks to work his way to mount. The Brazilian drops an elbow and Rockhold gives up his back. Costa has his hooks in as blood drips from Rockhold’s mouth. Rockhold is attempting to create an opening to spin into top position, and after a struggle he takes the top position. Rather than land offense, Rockhold is rubbing all his blood into Costa’s face as time winds down. It’s a bizarre ending to a bizarre fight.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Costa (30-27 Costa)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Costa (30-27 Costa)
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Costa (30-27 Costa)

The Official Result

Paulo Costa def. Luke Rockhold via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) R3 5:00

Kamaru Usman (170) vs. Leon Edwards (170)

BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Usman (-340), Edwards (+280)

Round 1

It’s main event time and in case you weren’t aware, Usman and Edwards have done this before, with “The Nigerian Nightmare” winning a three-round unanimous verdict at UFC on Fox 17 on Dec. 19, 2015. Herb Dean will get the final officiating assignment of the night. Usman crawls outof his corner and we’re underway. Edwards begins with a front kick to the midsection. The Brit then attacks the knee of Usman with a side kick. Edwards throws a couple more kicks at Usman’s legs. Usman shoots for a takedown behind his jab. Edwards defends and Usman throws a couple punches to the head. Usman is able to take top position after it appears Edwards slips. Edwards scrambles to his feet in relatively short order, though. Usman maintains a body lock and Edwards attempts to break the grip. Usman stays busy with knees to the thighs against the fence. Edwards gets an underhook and trips Usman to the canvas, landing in full mount. It’s the first time Usman has been taken down in his UFC career. Edwards postures up and lands a right hand and elbow. Edwards transitions to the back and locks in a body triangle. Edwards has a minute to hunt for the choke. Edwards can’t quite slide the arm under the chin of Usman, who is working hard to control the choke hand of his opponent. Edwards lands a few shots before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Edwards
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Edwards
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Edwards

Round 2

Edwards again opens with a front kick and follows with a jab. Usman answers. Usman closes the distance behind his punches and forces the clinch. Edwards pushes Usman off the fence and lands a knee. Usman applies pressure with a high kick and a series of heavy punches. Edwards circles out of danger. Usman lands a jab and Edwards extends his arm, which results in an eye poke on the champion. Usman takes some time to recover while Edwards gets a warning. They’re back at it. Usman lands a solid low kick. Edwards kicks at the lead knee of Usman. Edwards catches Usman with a knee to the body coming forward. Edwards sticks a hard straight left. Both men land to the body. Usman lands a hard right. Edwards sends Usman back for a moment with a left hook. Usman forces Edwards back into the fence, where he stomps at the feet. Edwards breaks free and shoots for a takedown of his own. Usman sprawls and secures a front headlock. Edwards frees himself and they separate. Edwards backs into the fence and Usman pressures with punches to the head and body. After that barrage, Usman changes levels and plants Edwards on the mat with about 25 seconds to go. Usman with a series of left hands to the ribs before the horn.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Usman

Round 3

Edwards has a high kick blocked. Edwards with an inside leg kick and they then trade jabs. Usman looks to advance and then he shoots for a takedown against the fence. This time, Usman dumps Edwards on the canvas with ease. Edwards scrambles back up, with Usman attached to his waist. Usman stays busy with knees to the thighs before dropping down. Edwards defends and separates. Edwards finishes a combination with a knee. Usman returns fire, pressuring with punches against the fence before landing another takedown. Usman is now working his way to Edwards’ back. Usman is working to flatten the Brit out, and the action has stalled near the fence. Dean warns Edwards for grabbing the glove. Usman moves around to the front, with Edwards seated agianst the fence. Usman looks for the neck of his opponent, making him carry his weight. Usman stands over Edwards, landing punches to the side of the head. He goes back to the headlock as time winds down. He relents on the grip, and tees off with a few heavy hooks as Edwards stands.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Usman

Round 4

Edwards opens with an inside leg kick. Usman with a nice jab. Edwards goes back to the leg kick and Usman lands another jab. Edwards land a front kick to the body. They collide and Edwards gets a rear body lock against the fence. Usman fights Edwards’ hands but “Rocky” is still attached to the champ. It’s a stalemate for a moment and then Edwards lets him go. Usman wastes little time closing the distance, and he gets a relatively easy takedown. Usman is in Edwards’ full guard now. The champ lands some short rights to the body. Edwards’ corner is screaming at him to return to his feet. Edwards scoots to a seated position, but Usman works toward a back take. Edwards is on a knee, and Usman is making him carry his weight. Edwards stands, but Usman still has a body lock secured. Edwards is trying to break Usman’s grip, but it’s to no avail. When he does free himself, Usman shoots instantly and dumps Edwards to the mat. Dean sees Edwards use a fence grab to stand, so he orders them to return to the previous position. Edwards stands again, and Usman lands more knees to the thighs. He relents on his grip and unloads with punches to the head and body while Edwards remains backed into the fence. That’s how the round ends.

Sherdog Scores

Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Usman
Noah Gagnon scores the round: 10-9 Usman

Round 5

Usman jogs out of his corner looking confident. The champ jabs at the body. Edwards with a knee and a left hook. Usman flicks out his jab. Usman is slowly backing Edwards into the fence, and he follows a punching combination with a takedown. Edwards posts and is up instantly. Usman grinds him into the fence, which draws boos from the crowd. Usman is draining clock in this position, and Dean tells Edwards to stop grabbing the gloves of his foe. Finally, Dean wants a break due to lack of action about halfway through the round. Edwards throws a front kick to the body. Then he follows up with a solid right hand. A kick from Edwards lands low, however, and time is called. Usman attacks the body with a kick. Edwards isn’t showing the urgency necessary at this point, as he’s standing in front of Usman despite being well behind on the scorecards. Just when it seems like Edwards has nothing left to offer, he throws a left high kick — hiding it behind his left hand — and the shin connects perfectly with Usman’s head. Usman is instantly unconscious as he falls to the canvas, and there’s no need for any follow-up. Edwards celebrates by jumping out of the cage and slapping hands with Dana White. This might be “Knockout of the Year” and “Upset of the Year” all at once. Edwards is your new welterweight champion in shocking fashion. Usman is dejected in his corner, as he was just minutes away from retaining his title.

The Official Result

Leon Edwards def. Kamaru Usman via KO (Head Kick) R5 4:04