In an intense match-up against Li Jingliang, Carlos Prates reminded everyone that he’s a formidable force in the welterweight division, showcasing his prowess with an unforgettable knockout. Prates, keen to join this line-up not just for a chance to showcase his skills but also to visit his Sydney-based daughter on his birthday, gifted himself with a victory to remember as he shattered Jingliang’s status of never being knocked out in an MMA duel.
Boasting a record of finishing his opponent in 18 of his 20 victories, it’s evident that Prates’ formidable striking ability and power are qualities that any contender in the octagon will have to reckon with. The welterweight division at 170 pounds is witnessing an influx of promising fighters, and following this victory, Prates has positioned himself as a frontrunner among them.
Meanwhile, in the heavyweight division, Jairzinho Rozenstruik demonstrated his superiority over Tai Tuivasa in a battle that lasted three rounds. Through the match, Rozenstruik’s proficiency became evident as he outmatched Tuivasa with a score of 91-37 in significant strikes over the three rounds, leaving no doubt in anyone’s mind that the victory was his.
The scoring was so decisive that it was hard to comprehend the kind of misjudgment it would have taken to have ruled otherwise. It was glaringly apparent that his judge, Booth, needs a refresher in judging training if he thought the fight had played out differently. Thankfully, Rozenstruik’s victory was recognized, credited to his rightful superiority in the bout, which was otherwise marred by Booth’s flawed judgment.
Switching gears to the lightweight division, Dan Hooker boldly undertook a challenging face-off against Mateusz Gamrot, triumphantly raising his hand at the end. Two out of three judges deemed the fight to be in Hooker’s favor, granting him the surprising split decision win. This victory marked a significant milestone in Hooker’s career as he showcased remarkable improvements in warding off an opponent who typically posed immense struggles.
Israel Adesanya, an influential figure in UFC, suffered a disappointing submission defeat at the hands of Dricus Du Plessis, which could signal the end of his reign competing for UFC titles. This loss positions Adesanya in the first two-match losing streak of his career and leaves him in a challenging situation, with increasingly probing inquiries about his prospects.
Even after a conclusive defeat in his main event duel with Du Plessis, Adesanya faithfully tolled the bell of resilience, making it clear that he had no intention of retiring and will continue to compete. Despite the uncertain and uphill journey ahead, he appeared hopeful of securing a few victories that could potentially lead him back to a championship fight. However, the stiff competition at the top doesn’t seem to taper and is only becoming increasingly challenging for him.
There’s an ongoing debate on whether Adesanya’s form has declined or if the standard established by other competitors has surged past his. While the truth remains a mystery for now, with Adesanya’s decision to continue his combative journey, time will reveal his remaining potential in his next performance.
One cannot overlook the singular trajectory of Dricus Du Plessis in MMA history. At first glance, his consistent strike of success in the octagon seems improbable, yet he tirelessly proves his skeptics wrong, managing to emerge victorious time and time again.
Anchoring his pertinence as a champion after usurping the middleweight title from Sean Strickland in a split decision earlier this year, Du Plessis proved his worth in the recent match by strategically besting Adesanya. Despite an unconventional style that gives off a facade of fatigue, Du Plessis keeps delivering commendable results.
With this victory, Du Plessis has successfully defended his title, cementing his position as the current favorite in his division. The South African has triumphed over three of the previous four champions in his division, including Adesanya, Strickland, and Robert Whittaker.
Observers are eagerly awaiting the continuation of his streak, beleaguered by the question of how long he’ll be able to maintain it. Du Plessis has more than earned the respect and admiration of fans across the globe. This championship victory is a testament that the belt truly rests in deserving hands.