UFC 289: Nunes Vs. Aldana Results: Highlights, Commentary, Live Update, Winners
UFC 289: Nunes vs. Aldana is set to be an electrifying mixed martial arts extravaganza, showcasing the best of the sport in one thrilling night. Taking place on June 10, 2023, at the iconic Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, this event promises to leave fans on the edge of their seats.##
As the UFC's 32nd visit to Canada and the sixth to Vancouver, it marks a triumphant return to the country after a hiatus since UFC Fight Night: Cowboy vs. Gaethje in September 2019. The anticipation is palpable as the Octagon once again graces Canadian soil. ##
Headlining the event is a monumental trilogy bout for the UFC Women's Bantamweight Championship. The current two-time champion and reigning UFC Women's Featherweight Champion, Amanda Nunes, squares off against the former champion and The Ultimate Fighter: Team Rousey vs. Team Tate bantamweight winner, Julianna Peña. Their history is filled with intense competition, as Peña shocked the world with a stunning submission victory in their first encounter at UFC 269, only for Nunes to reclaim the title in a hard-fought rematch at UFC 277. ##
Adding to the drama, Nunes and Peña served as head coaches for the 30th season of The Ultimate Fighter, intensifying their rivalry. However, a twist of fate occurred when Peña suffered broken ribs, leading to her replacement by the formidable Irene Aldana, who was originally slated to headline UFC Fight Night 223. Adding to the suspense, former title challenger Raquel Pennington will be standing by as a backup for the title bout, ready to seize any opportunity that arises. In the co-main event, a lightweight clash of titans awaits as former UFC Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira steps into the Octagon against the formidable Beneil Dariush. Originally scheduled for UFC 288, this matchup was temporarily put on hold due to Oliveira's injury. ##
UFC 289: Nunes Vs. Aldana Results ##
UFC 289 Main card Results ##
Middleweight: Marc-André Barriault Vs Eryk Anders ##
ROUND 1st: In the intriguing matchup between Anders, adopting a southpaw stance, and Barriault, fighting in an orthodox style, it was Anders who initially took control of the center of the octagon. Barriault, displaying early agility, deftly moved around, but suddenly unleashed a devastating stepping right hand that sent Anders crashing to the canvas. ##
Anders found himself in dire straits, desperately trying to weather the storm as Barriault pursued him to the ground. Employing his agility, Anders managed to roll into a defensive turtle position. However, Barriault wasted no time, mounting Anders and seeking opportunities to land punishing strikes. Nonetheless, displaying resilience, Anders managed to regain his footing, rising to a standing position. Barriault, determined to maintain control, secured a clinch against the cage and delivered another impactful blow that buckled Anders' knees. Responding swiftly, Anders spun and retaliated with a powerful elbow strike from above. The pace was relentless, showcasing an all-out battle. ##
Both competitors engaged in a gritty clinch, exchanging knees and elbows with ferocity. Anders skillfully maneuvered Barriault, spinning him against the fence and retaliating with a series of brutal elbows. Barriault managed to break free, countering with a well-timed right hand as Anders stepped back. The fight raged on, with an intense tempo established within the first two minutes. ##
Barriault continued to find success with his right hand, but Anders, finding his groove, pressed forward, connecting with a powerful left hand followed by a combination. Barriault, now backed against the cage, found himself in a clinch with Anders. Displaying his versatility, Anders delivered a significant knee to Barriault's body before disengaging. ##
Both fighters momentarily reset, preparing for the next exchange. Anders surged forward, missing with a right hand but successfully landing a formidable knee as they clinched. However, Anders endured an elbow strike from Barriault, prompting him to change his approach. Quickly adjusting, Anders reset his position, delivering a resounding knee to Barriault's midsection. Barriault broke free and responded with a left hand of his own. The intensity of the battle continued to escalate. ##
With determination, Anders lunged forward, swiftly grabbing Barriault's hips and driving him towards the cage. Barriault valiantly defended the takedown attempt, while the crowd erupted in passionate chants. Amidst the grappling, Anders managed to land a knee before they separated, with Barriault countering with a well-placed right hand. Anders, now showcasing relentless pressure, recalibrated his strategy after eating the counter. However, the horn sounded, signifying the end of the round, before any further significant developments occurred. ##
ROUND 2nd: Despite Anders' commendable efforts in the first round, it was evident that he had suffered significant damage early on and continued to absorb numerous strikes throughout the round. One must concede this round to Barriault, who showcased impressive resilience and offensive prowess. ##
As the second round commenced, both fighters appeared to be in good physical condition. Barriault initiated the action with a well-executed right body kick, a strike he had successfully landed multiple times before. Responding to the pressure, Anders sought to assert dominance by securing a clinch against the fence. However, Barriault demonstrated resilience this time, promptly breaking free while connecting with a combination. ##
Undeterred, Anders lunged forward once again but failed to find his target. Barriault attempted a knee strike as Anders evaded, yet inadvertently made contact with the cup. The action paused momentarily as a replay confirmed the proximity of the strike, drawing criticism from the commentary team. Upon the restart, the fighters resumed their engagement. Anders resumed his relentless pressure, determined to keep Barriault on the defensive. However, Barriault displayed improved fluidity in his movement during this round. He effectively snapped a kick, followed by a well-timed step-in right hand. While Anders continued to press forward, his offensive output remained somewhat limited, only managing to land a left hand. ##
Anders struggled to succeed in pushing Barriault backward, as the latter exhibited agile footwork, adeptly circling the octagon. Frustrated by this development, Anders opted to charge in and clinch with his opponent. Although Anders displayed some facial damage, he secured a takedown using a single-leg technique. ##
Swiftly, Barriault transitioned to his knees and attempted to regain a standing position. Anders, however, initiated a front headlock series. Despite Anders' best efforts, Barriault successfully defended the submission attempts and stood back up, delivering a solid right hand as they separated. Barriault capitalized on the opportunity, landing another left hand. Not long after, Anders stepped in, only to fall victim to yet another low blow from Barriault. This time, there was no ambiguity as Barriault's knee struck directly into Anders' cup. ##
The referee, heard over the microphone, contemplated deducting a point from Barriault—a decision that would have been justifiable. However, after issuing a warning, the referee chose not to deduct a point, and the action resumed. ##
Anders emerged from the restart with renewed intensity, firing off a barrage of strikes that caused Barriault to retreat momentarily. However, Barriault swiftly regained his composure and proceeded to back Anders up with a series of well-placed shots. Barriault then capitalized on the opportunity, landing a knee strike during a clinch. Anders found himself on the defensive, succumbing to the pressure and absorbing a left hand. Barriault, exhibiting signs of greater stamina, unleashed a body kick followed by a right hand. Employing a stiff jab to dissuade Anders from advancing further, Barriault effectively created a dilemma for his opponent. The situation posed a significant challenge for Anders. ##
ROUND 3: Strictly adhering to the rules, Round 2 likely favored Barriault, although I personally lean towards Anders due to Jerin Velel's failure to deduct a point as he should have. As we head into the third round, everything is up for grabs. ##
Barriault initiates the round by applying pressure, utilizing a well-executed jab to push Anders onto his backfoot. Sensing an opportunity, Anders attempts a takedown but quickly abandons it, opting instead to land a knee followed by a left hand. Undeterred, Barriault continues his relentless onslaught, connecting with a powerful body kick. ##
Anders, fueled by determination, begins to advance, absorbing a fierce combination from Barriault. Yet, undeterred, Anders persists and secures a clinch against the fence. Barriault, unable to break free this time, finds himself on the receiving end of solid body knees from Anders, who displays a bullying approach. ##
Eventually, Barriault manages to escape the clinch, retaliating with a well-timed right hand. He advances, successfully landing a body kick followed by a right hand. While Anders keeps pressing forward, he becomes vulnerable to counters. Barriault capitalizes on this, connecting with a powerful right hand that grabs Anders' attention. A body kick, an inside low kick, and a right hand follow suit. Barriault demonstrates his skill by launching a series of jabs, exhibiting an impressive offensive display. Anders, despite continuously plodding forward, finds himself at the receiving end of Barriault's clean strikes. ##
With 90 seconds remaining, Anders finds himself in need of a substantial breakthrough. Despite attempting a charge, he falls victim to another two shots from Barriault. Barriault, spurred on by Jimmy's encouragement, lands a clean jab and successfully defends against a takedown attempt. A head kick barely blocked by Anders further showcases Barriault's offensive arsenal. A powerful right hand wobbles Anders, prompting Barriault to press forward. In a surprising turn of events, Anders retaliates, forcing Barriault to retreat. However, Barriault swiftly recovers and lands a clean shot, while Anders exhibits an unwavering determination, refusing to back down. With just 10 seconds remaining, they engage in a flurry of strikes, battling until the final bell. Truly, an extraordinary fight—a strong contender for Fight of the Night honors, possibly even securing the title already. ##
WINNER: Marc-André Barriault via Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) ##
Featherweight: Dan Ige vs. Nate Landwehr
ROUND 1: In an orthodox stance, both combatants commence the bout with a display of tactical caution. Engaging in a process of assessing each other's movements, they seek openings for strikes. Ige executes a well-timed right-left combination, deftly maneuvering around Landwehr's guard. Closing the distance, Ige penetrates the guard with a penetrating jab, followed by a fierce left to the body, prompting a resolute counter from Landwehr who appears fixated on that vulnerability. Responding with force, Ige delivers a powerful left hook, triggering an escalation in the offensive output from both warriors. ##
With a swift right hook, Landwehr finds success over the top, leading to a clinch where he capitalizes with impactful knee strikes. Establishing himself at the center of the cage, Landwehr employs patience while Ige remains nimble on the periphery. An errant monster left hook from Ige fails to find its mark, followed by inside calf kicks exchanged between the two contenders. A sense of anticipation fills the air as Ige thwarts Landwehr's attempt to change levels. Landwehr steadily advances, landing jabs with precision, while Ige responds with body shots. Seizing an opportunity, Ige charges in with a successful left hook to the body before swiftly retreating. Landwehr retaliates with a powerful combination upon Ige's forward movement. ##
The contest remains tightly contested, with neither competitor gaining a significant advantage. Landwehr's blocked head kick and Ige's ability to control the center of the cage exemplify the back-and-forth nature of the fight. Landwehr launches a combination when Ige steps in, though most of it is deflected by the vigilant defense of Ige. As the round nears its conclusion, Ige asserts his dominance with a powerful left hand that causes Landwehr to stumble momentarily. Despite the setback, Landwehr responds with a formidable counter, successfully backing Ige up just before the bell. Nevertheless, Ige's impactful blow in the closing moments solidifies his claim on the round. ##
ROUND 2: In a demonstration of assertiveness, Ige secures the round with a resounding statement. Employing a deft stance-switch and a powerful left hook over the top, he catches Landwehr off guard. Although Landwehr appears composed in his corner, the impact of Ige's blow lingers as the second round commences. ##
Landwehr, resolute, assumes control of the center, while Ige exudes an inspired energy, displaying remarkable agility. The clash ensues, with both men landing effective shots. Landwehr endeavors to apply pressure, while Ige tactfully circles, delivering a well-placed low kick. Landwehr seeks a snatch single, but Ige adeptly thwarts the attempt. Stepping in, Ige evades Landwehr's combinations, narrowly avoiding a potentially devastating knee strike. Both combatants exhibit measured approaches, showcasing their strategic acumen. ##
Landwehr finds success with his jab as Ige steps forward, prompting a retaliatory response from Ige. Seizing the offensive momentum, Ige presses Landwehr against the fence, connecting with a formidable right hook that breaches the guard. Landwehr maneuvers away, yet Ige continues his assault, delivering a straight right to the body, effectively targeting Landwehr's midsection. ##
With increased determination, Landwehr advances, landing a precise right hand that captures Ige's attention, resulting in a laceration on the bridge of his nose. Bolstered by his success, Landwehr intensifies his forward movement, instigating an exchange of fierce blows. Ige, exhibiting superior output and unleashing more powerful strikes, assumes control. Landwehr finds himself pressed against the fence, yearning for impactful counters that prove elusive. ##
Once again, the competitors engage in a clinch, during which Landwehr manages to land a knee strike, only for Ige to break free and retaliate with a well-timed jab. Ige further asserts his dominance with a resounding left to the body. Landwehr, desperately in need of a fresh approach, finds himself outmatched in the realm of kickboxing. ##
In a stunning turn, Ige launches a decisive assault, transforming the contest into an all-out brawl. Landwehr, on shaky ground, faces perilous circumstances with a mere ten seconds remaining. Ige relentlessly presses the advantage, while Landwehr resorts to upkicks and evasive maneuvers, managing to survive the onslaught. When Landwehr rises, his stability falters, a testament to the formidable power of Ige's striking prowess. The forceful left hand that felled Landwehr resonates as a testament to Ige's dominance. ##
ROUND 3: Ige emphatically punctuates each round with definitive displays of skill. Landwehr, facing an undeniable need for a finish, is undoubtedly driven to achieve that outcome. Familiar with Landwehr's tenacity, it is expected that he will relentlessly pursue such an opportunity. Undoubtedly, Round 3 promises excitement. ##
Landwehr, now firmly grounded, charges forward with determination. Ige meets him at the center of the cage, unleashing a powerful right hand. Landwehr retaliates with combinations, while Ige maintains his composure, strategically employing a jab. Suddenly, a colossal left hand lands with thunderous impact, momentarily staggering Landwehr. ##
In the wake of that devastating blow, Landwehr finds himself on the defensive, seeking refuge from Ige's relentless barrage. Ige, wielding his strikes with brute force, maneuvers around Landwehr's guard. Despite Landwehr's counterattacks and attempts at a clinch knee, Ige's exceptional performance remains unyielding. ##
Ige, taking a moment to regroup, observes Landwehr's state of disorientation. Initially appearing subdued, Landwehr suddenly finds renewed vigor, launching his own offensive. However, Ige astutely counters Landwehr's advances, demonstrating an awe-inspiring performance. Landwehr takes a risk with a jumping knee, but Ige adeptly evades the attack and engages in a clinch. The skirmish ensues, with Landwehr delivering brutal elbows against the fence. Despite the valiant effort, Ige ultimately breaks free. ##
Ige maintains his dominance by effectively utilizing the jab, while Landwehr, aware of the limited time remaining, must muster something substantial within the final 90 seconds. Ige lands another powerful strike, reinforcing his control over the bout. Advancing behind the jab, Ige narrowly misses a significant left hook. Undeterred, Landwehr charges forward, yet Ige's exceptional defense prevails. With only 60 seconds remaining, time is of the essence. ##
Landwehr attempts a takedown but fails to secure it. He presses onward, determined in his approach. Ige counters, while Landwehr tenaciously persists. A clinch knee connects, and although Ige may exhibit signs of fatigue, the fleeting moments prevent significant shifts. In a masterful display, Ige executes an arm-drag, reversing the position along the fence. Landwehr manages to regain control, yet time is running short. Employing elbows and knees, he demonstrates a final surge, but alas, it proves insufficient. ##
WINNER: Dan Ige via Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) ##
Welterweight: Mike Malott vs. Adam Fugitt ##
ROUND 1st: Malott adopts an orthodox stance, while Fugitt adopts a southpaw position, strategically taking the center of the ring. Both fighters engage cautiously at the start, assessing each other's movements. Suddenly, Malott unleashes a devastating body kick that inflicts considerable damage upon Fugitt! Fugitt, though visibly hurt, retaliates and forces Malott to retreat momentarily. They reset, but Fugitt remains vulnerable to further attacks. ##
Another precise body kick lands from Malott, intensifying Fugitt's discomfort. Though he conceals it skillfully, Fugitt's compromised condition is evident. Determined to overpower his opponent, Fugitt begins to advance and close the distance. However, Malott capitalizes on the opportunity and connects with a powerful right hand over Fugitt's guard. ##
During the fight, Jon Anik, the commentator, assures viewers that everyone is safe after a rail collapse incident, providing a reassuring update. Fugitt appears to have regained composure and resumes his relentless forward movement. Nevertheless, Malott manages to find openings and lands effective strikes. As Malott attempts another body kick, his aim goes astray, landing low. The referee steps in, but Fugitt dismisses the intervention, displaying his determination to continue the brawl. ##
Fugitt successfully pins Malott against the cage and initiates a takedown attempt, but Malott skillfully thwarts the effort, securing the clinch and executing a well-executed lateral drop. Malott gains top position and settles into a dominant half-guard position, putting Fugitt in a disadvantageous situation. ##
Showing his resilience, Fugitt regains his full guard, prompting Malott to stand up, granting Fugitt an opportunity to kick him away and return to their feet. Undeterred, Fugitt persistently presses forward, desperately searching for openings to launch his offense. However, Fugitt struggles to find his rhythm. In a momentary lapse, he throws a lackluster kick that Malott seizes, driving forward and concluding with a swift foot sweep. Fugitt manages to secure a butterfly guard, attempting to unleash elbows until the sound of the horn terminates the round. ##
ROUND 2nd: Fugitt launches a swift counterattack as the round commences, yet Malott relies on his proven arsenal of kicks to maintain distance and deter Fugitt's advances. ##
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Malott steps forward with sheer force, unleashing a thunderous right-left combination! The impact sends Fugitt crashing to the canvas, and Malott wastes no time capitalizing on the opportunity. Fugitt struggles to rise, but Malott seizes his neck, swiftly transitioning into a tight guillotine choke! Fugitt finds himself engulfed in a perilous predicament, forced to retreat to his back in a desperate attempt to escape the danger. ##
Alas, it proves futile, as the relentless pressure applied by Malott is insurmountable. Fugitt succumbs to the excruciating submission hold, resulting in a tap out. With this extraordinary triumph, Malott remains undefeated, marking another remarkable achievement for Canada in the world of mixed martial arts. ##
WINNER: Mike Malott via Submission (guillotine choke) RD 2, 1:06 ##
Lightweight: Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush ##
ROUND 1st: Oliveira opens the bout in orthodox stance, while Benny assumes the southpaw position, initiating the action with a swift low kick. Oliveira wastes no time, marching forward with determination and launching a thunderous head kick! Dariush skillfully blocks the attack and retaliates in kind. Undeterred, Oliveira relentlessly presses forward, engaging in a close-quarter clinch. ##
Dariush swiftly spins Oliveira against the fence, initiating a fierce struggle. However, Oliveira, in a momentary lapse of balance, attempts a trip and ends up pulling guard. Now with Dariush in the top position, he immediately capitalizes, unleashing a barrage of punches upon Oliveira's guard. ##
Displaying a display of strength and technique, Dariush postures up and delivers a flurry of strikes before attempting to maneuver and pass Oliveira's guard. Oliveira, displaying his grappling prowess, swiftly regains his guard, seeking an opportunity to launch his own offensive. Dariush, however, remains steadfast and continues his relentless assault, landing impactful blows. As Dariush attempts to pass once again, Oliveira seizes an opportunity, grabbing hold of a leg and launching an attack with a heel hook. Admirably, Dariush demonstrates his knowledge and skill by successfully defending against Oliveira's submission attempt, ultimately finding himself back in Oliveira's guard. ##
Dariush resumes his relentless assault, employing a combination of left hands and rights, while Oliveira gamely plays the guard game against a NoGi world champion, displaying a bold and strategic approach. ##
Once again, Dariush assumes top position, reigning down punches upon Oliveira. Sensing an opportunity to turn the tide, Oliveira tries to secure an arm for an attack, yet Dariush remains vigilant, refusing to fall into Oliveira's trap. Swiftly, Dariush stands, seeking to pass Oliveira's guard. In a remarkable display of agility, Oliveira kicks off and promptly stands, immediately initiating another clinch, expertly maneuvering Dariush against the fence. ##
With a mere 80 seconds remaining, the fighters separate. Seizing the moment, Oliveira delivers a monumental head kick that stuns Dariush, leaving him disoriented and vulnerable. In a desperate bid to regain control, Dariush instinctively shoots for a takedown, but Oliveira expertly spins and begins raining down heavy blows upon his exposed opponent. Dariush finds himself trapped, helpless against Oliveira's onslaught. Recognizing the precarious situation, referee Herzog steps in, signaling the end of the fight. It is a decisive victory for Oliveira, leaving Dariush in a state of peril and defeat. ##
WINNER: Charles Oliveira via TKO (punches) RD 1, 4:10 ##
Women's Bantamweight: Amanda Nunes (c) vs. Irene Aldana ##
ROUND 1st: Both women engage in orthodox stances, and Aldana seizes the initiative with swift action. Her formidable guard stands tall as Nunes tests the waters with a body shot, followed by a calculated calf kick. Aldana, displaying remarkable composure, remains coiled and alert. ##
Nunes, firmly holding the center, maintains a vigilant gaze, searching for an opportune moment. A sense of patience emanates from both fighters in the initial minute of the bout. Aldana exhibits fluid motion, seeking to discover an advantageous angle. Meanwhile, Nunes, resolute in her position, delivers a resounding body kick, biding her time before launching her assault. In a display of her prowess, she secures a snap single leg takedown on Aldana, promptly allowing her opponent to rise to her feet. This maneuver serves as a statement from Nunes, a testament to her ability to execute takedowns at will. ##
Aldana, compelled to retreat, surrenders ground and fails to land any significant strikes. Not only is she responding to feints but also enduring Nunes's dominance, as the champion methodically bullies her around the cage with solitary shots, employing front kicks and jabs as her weapons of choice. With two minutes remaining, Aldana finds herself in a precarious position, lacking the assertiveness required to mount a meaningful offense. Though not intimidated, she remains stagnant, permitting Nunes unrestricted control, which the reigning champion capitalizes on. Nunes tantalizingly showcases a snatch single leg attempt, strategically planting doubt in Aldana's mind. In a brief reprieve for Aldana, she connects with a well-executed right hook, yet Nunes continues to assert her authority. ##
However, Nunes momentarily displays a lapse in intensity as she carelessly charges forward, allowing Aldana to exploit the opening and land a well-placed right hand. Nunes shakes it off, but a cut now mars her visage. This impressive strike serves to reestablish Aldana's presence, possibly prompting Nunes to regard her with greater respect, a sentiment that was starting to wane. ##
Nunes narrowly misses a counter right hand, narrowly evading the blow following a lackadaisical jab. Furthermore, her low kick is deftly checked by Aldana. Encouraged by this turn of events, Aldana begins to muster some retaliation, albeit too belatedly. ##
ROUND 2nd: Early in the round, Nunes demonstrates versatility by switching stances, a tactic she began employing in the previous round. Aldana initiates with a probing right hand, but is met with a stinging jab from Nunes, whose precision with the jab has been impeccable. Nunes gradually pushes Aldana back, driving her towards the fence with measured single shots. ##
Nunes attempts a snatch single leg takedown, but abandons it as Aldana defends effectively. Aldana counters with a well-executed low kick. However, Nunes swiftly resumes her assault, relentlessly peppering Aldana with precise strikes. She refrains from throwing power shots, instead accumulating points through her measured attacks, which nevertheless carry significant weight. Aldana attempts a few leg kicks in response, but they only serve to widen the gap between their respective reaches. Aldana has absorbed several leg kicks, a troubling development for her. ##
As Aldana begins to advance, Nunes evades her movements, fighting at a leisurely pace. Aldana has managed to land only seven strikes in the span of seven minutes, a plan that clearly lacks a winning strategy. In return, she absorbs a combination and a leg kick from Nunes. ##
Aldana manages to land a strike of her own but pays the price by eating a jab in return. She is being outworked by Nunes, and her corner implores her to cease showing excessive respect towards her opponent, recognizing it as a potential issue. Nunes attempts a stepping elbow, followed by a snatch single leg takedown that briefly puts Aldana on the canvas, but Nunes shows little interest in pursuing her on the ground. Instead, she continues to methodically chip away at Aldana's lead leg, causing visible damage. The champion follows up with a combination, and when Aldana steps in, Nunes unloads a devastating counter. It seems Nunes's strategy is clear: when on the offensive, execute precise strikes, but when countering, unleash powerful blows. This approach has left Aldana in a precarious situation. ##
Nunes maintains her dominance with a consistent jab, and she lands a right hand as Aldana shifts her position. Aldana appears to be outmatched in this contest, though there is a possibility that she is cunningly concealing her true intentions. Nunes exudes confidence inside the cage. Aldana briefly opens up and attempts a spinning attack, which Nunes expertly evades, swiftly transitioning into a body lock takedown. ##
However, Aldana promptly stands back up. Nunes displays no interest in exerting complete control over Aldana on the ground. ##
ROUND 3: Nunes emanates an air of joy as she embraces her element inside the cage. The third round commences with a torrent of heavy offense from Nunes, launching a combination that finds its mark despite Aldana's guarded defense. Aldana finds herself forced into retreat while Nunes wears an exuberant smile, reveling in her dominance and eagerly stalking her opponent. ##
Aldana desperately attempts to ignite a spark, but she lacks the necessary tools to assert control from the lead position. Nunes effortlessly evades Aldana's advances, effectively leading her around the Octagon, cutting angles to set up potent counters, and consistently peppering her with a stinging jab. Despite this, Aldana displays slight improvement, pressuring Nunes, but the champion skillfully guides her movements, patiently waiting for an opening to counter. Nunes maintains her jab, serving as a constant reminder of her superiority. Nevertheless, Aldana seizes an opportunity to unleash a high kick, which regrettably misses its mark. ##
Unexpectedly, Nunes falls victim to a trip takedown from Aldana. However, Aldana swiftly rises, only to face Nunes's committed second attempt, which successfully grounds her. This time, Nunes secures top half-guard position, as Aldana strives to employ her length for defensive purposes. Nunes proves adept at smashing and passing Aldana's defenses, while Aldana endeavors to incorporate her knees. Although Aldana's length aids her in fending off Nunes's attacks, the champion remains in control, continuously seeking to advance her position. ##
Aldana manages to roll back up to her feet, but Nunes maintains a front headlock, delivering a knee before deftly tripping Aldana back down to the canvas. Nunes returns to a top position, transitioning seamlessly. She stands, prompting Aldana to rise, yet Nunes immediately regains the clinch, securing Aldana's back against the fence and executing another successful trip. Nunes transitions into the backpack position, though she finds herself slightly high. Aldana attempts to shimmy Nunes forward, but the champion redirects her focus, launching an assault on Aldana's arm. Alas, Aldana manages to free herself and rise back to her feet, resuming the battle in open space. ##
Aldana's energy appears slightly depleted, while Nunes maintains her ear-to-ear grin. Aldana musters a surge of offense but is met with a punishing right hand. Undeterred, she continues her forward momentum. Nunes, however, grows slightly careless in her counterattacks. Nevertheless, Aldana's efforts prove increasingly reckless, providing an opening for Nunes to unleash a devastating combination and knee just before the round concludes. ##
ROUND 4th: Aldana finds herself in need of a decisive finish. No judge could conceivably score any round in her favor, and her corner acknowledges this, urgently urging her to take action. Their encouragement is all they can offer; the responsibility lies solely with Aldana to transform this contest into a true battle. Nunes continues to sport a wide smile, thoroughly enjoying herself within the cage. Aldana attempts to rally the crowd, and Nunes joins her, eliciting an enthusiastic response from the spectators. ##
Aldana displays a newfound vigor in this round, purposefully advancing towards Nunes, punctuating her approach with a few leg kicks. Nunes promptly reciprocates, answering with leg kicks of her own, all while maintaining her trademark jab. Momentum swiftly shifts as Nunes asserts her dominance, forcefully pushing Aldana backward. ##
Suddenly, a thunderous elbow lands. Nunes connects with a colossal elbow strike, violently jolting Aldana's head, resulting in visible damage—a swollen eye and a cut. Despite the punishment, Aldana remains undeterred, relentlessly pressing forward. Nunes attempts a takedown, but Aldana successfully defends it, showcasing her remarkable toughness. Nevertheless, the toll begins to show on Aldana. ##
Nunes attempts another takedown, but Aldana thwarts her efforts once again, retaliating with a well-placed uppercut. Nunes follows up with her ever-present jab. Aldana's corner implores her to engage in a wild brawl, recognizing that it is her sole chance at victory. Nunes endeavors to secure a double-leg takedown and accomplishes it. Aldana manages to kick her opponent off and Nunes patiently awaits her standing up, ready to unleash a devastating blow. The striking statistics reveal a stark reality—Nunes has landed nearly as many strikes as Aldana has thrown. This bodes poorly for the challenger. ##
Despite Aldana's continuous forward movement, she becomes increasingly susceptible to Nunes's counterattacks, absorbing significant blows. She demonstrates an admirable ability to withstand punishment, yet these strikes must inflict damage to have any impact. Aldana valiantly retaliates but falls short in her offensive output. She once again absorbs a clubbing right hand, her relentless forward motion leading her into the line of fire, as she is relentlessly battered with powerful shots, repeatedly being propelled around the cage. The statistical disparity between the two fighters becomes glaringly apparent. ##
Nunes delivers a resounding body shot, further underscoring Aldana's lack of effective tools. The challenger, unable to mount a significant offensive, endures a barrage of punishing strikes from Nunes before the final horn sounds. ##
WINNER: Amanda Nunes def. Irene Aldana via unanimous decision (50-44, 50-44, 50-43). ##
Preliminary card (ESPN / ESPN+) Results ##
-Middleweight: Nassourdine Imavov vs. Chris Curtis via No Contest (accidental clash of heads), RD 2, 3:04 ##
-Women's Flyweight: Jasmine Jasudavicius defeated Miranda Maverick via Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) ##
-Bantamweight: Aiemann Zahabi defeated Aori Qileng via KO (punches) RD 1, 1:04 ##
Featherweight: Kyle Nelson defeated Blake Bilder via Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) ##
Early preliminary card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass) Results ##
-Flyweight: Stephen Erceg defeated David Dvořák via Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 30–27) ##
-Women's Strawweight: Diana Belbiţă defeated Maria Oliveira via Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) ##
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