UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs Imavov delivered explosive action at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky on June 8, 2024. The event marked just the second time the UFC had visited Louisville in its history and featured 14 compelling fights across the main card and preliminaries.
While the preliminary card was decision-heavy, the UFC on ESPN: Cannonier vs Imavov event erupted with five consecutive stoppages that energized the crowd. The night belonged to France's Nassourdine Imavov, who scored a controversial fourth-round TKO over former title challenger Jared Cannonier in the main event, and to Dominick Reyes, who ended a devastating four-fight losing streak with a spectacular first-round knockout. India's Puja Tomar also made history by becoming the first Indian fighter to earn a UFC victory.
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UFC Louisville: Cannonier vs Imavov - Main Card Results
Main Event: Jared Cannonier vs Nassourdine Imavov - Middleweight
Winner: Nassourdine Imavov (France) via TKO (Punches) at 1:34 of Round 4
In the biggest and most controversial win of his UFC career, France's Nassourdine Imavov stopped former middleweight title challenger Jared Cannonier at UFC Louisville: Cannonier vs Imavov with a fourth-round TKO that sparked immediate debate. The stoppage by veteran referee Jason Herzog appeared premature, with Cannonier still intelligently defending himself despite being hurtāa decision that left "The Killa Gorilla" protesting immediately and fans questioning whether the fight ended too soon.
The bout was competitive through the first three rounds, with Cannonier controlling much of the early action. The American came out aggressively at the first bell, looking to close distance with combinations. Imavov met his offense with fiery returns before looking to clinch, but it was Cannonier who tripped him to the floor. The #4-ranked Cannonier scored with an elbow when Imavov scrambled back to open space, establishing early dominance.
Imavov briefly managed his own takedown off a caught kick, but Cannonier was largely in control through the first five minutes. He landed the cleaner punches and appeared to hold a strength advantage in the clinch, taking the opening round clearly.
Cannonier opened the second by chopping Imavov's lead leg. He stuck the Frenchman with a long 1-2 combination, then bullied him into the fence looking for another takedown. Imavov denied the double leg, absorbed hard jabs, and was shoved right back into the cage. Despite Cannonier's control, he wasn't able to get much going offensively, and when the two finally broke apart, Imavov became the aggressor.
The #7-ranked challenger managed to land a good right hand and grabbed momentum, making for a closer round. Finishing the second with a strong flurry likely secured the frame for "Sniper" Imavov, evening the scorecards.
Once more in the third, Cannonier opened with a nice right hand. Imavov slipped one of his punches to grab the clinch and briefly forced Cannonier to the floor. The French fighter did well timing Cannonier's calf kicks, answering with counter punches down the middle. Cannonier's rhythm at range allowed him to sneak in good connections, including a crafty uppercut played off the jab. Unfortunately, long stretches of the round saw Cannonier shoving Imavov into the fence, which slowed the action significantly.
The fourth round began explosively with Imavov eating a gnarly spinning elbow with zero issue. Moments later, Imavov returned the favor in massive fashion, stunning Cannonier with a crisp right hand counter. "The Killa Gorilla" was wounded, his legs wobbling, but he maintained his footing and tried to fire back amidst Imavov's flurry.
This is where controversy erupted. Cannonier was clearly hurt, but he kept his eyes on his opponent, maintained a high guard, and attempted to defend himself. Multiple straight rights, left hooks, and knees landed from Imavov during a 20-second blitz as Cannonier covered up and backed toward the fence. A couple of Imavov's right hands glanced across the guard rather than landing cleanāand referee Jason Herzog called the fight at 1:34 of the fourth round.
The stoppage was immediate and decisive, but questionable. While Cannonier was undoubtedly hurt and on wobbly legs, he was intelligently defending himself. Fighters are allowed to be rocked and recoverāit's part of the sport. Cannonier managed to throw one strike during the exchange and was still conscious and aware, not taking an extended, uncomfortable beating. The Louisville crowd's energy deflated as boos mixed with cheers.
"I was ready to continue the fight if the fight was willing to continue. That's the referee's job, it's what the referee does on a daily basis," Imavov said through an interpreter during his post-fight interview. "So I think he made the right decision but I was ready to keep going."
Despite the controversy surrounding the finish, the victory was massive for Imavov's career trajectory. The 28-year-old improved to 14-4 (1 NC) overall and extended his unbeaten streak to three consecutive fights. He has lost only once in his last seven outings and is expected to jump from #7 to #4 in the UFC's official middleweight rankings.
Post-fight, Imavov made his intentions clear with a callout: he wants former champion Robert Whittaker in his hometown of Paris. "He wants WHO in Paris?" became the viral moment as Imavov called for a September UFC Fight Night in France to face the former titleholder.
For Cannonier, the loss snapped a two-fight winning streak that included a middleweight record-setting strike total against Marvin Vettori and a victory over Sean Strickland before "Tarzan" went on his brief championship run. The defeat marked Cannonier's first stoppage loss in 10 middleweight fightsāan impressive durability record tarnished by a finish that many felt came too soon. The 40-year-old American fell to 17-7 overall and faces an uncertain future in his title pursuit.
The controversial nature of the stoppage will forever be debated, but it cannot be denied that Imavov was winning the exchange when Herzog intervened. Whether Cannonier could have recovered and turned the fight around remains an unanswered question that will frustrate fans and the fighter himself.
Co-Main Event: Dominick Reyes vs Dustin Jacoby - Light Heavyweight
Winner: Dominick Reyes (United States) via KO (Knee and Punches) at 2:00 of Round 1
In one of the most dramatic career turnarounds in recent UFC history, former light heavyweight title challenger Dominick Reyes ended a devastating four-year, four-fight losing streak with an explosive first-round knockout of Top 15 fixture Dustin Jacoby. The spectacular finish provided Reyes with redemption after years of heartbreak and raised questions about whether "The Devastator" can recapture his championship form.
The 34-year-old Reyes, who famously gave Jon Jones one of his toughest fights in a controversial 2020 title bout, entered the contest on the worst skid of his career. Since nearly dethroning Jones, Reyes had lost four consecutive fights to Jan BÅachowicz (by TKO for the vacant title), JiÅĆ ProchĆ”zka (by knockout), Ryan Spann (by submission), and Anthony Smith (by submission). The losing streak threatened to end what was once a promising career, making this fight against #15-ranked Jacoby a must-win situation.
From the opening bell, Reyes looked like a fighter on a mission to reclaim his past glory. His movement was crisp, his striking sharp, and his confidence restored. Jacoby, who had struggled in his own recent outings, couldn't match Reyes's intensity.
Just two minutes into the opening round, Reyes landed a perfectly timed knee followed by punches that sent Jacoby crashing to the canvas. The fight was over immediately, with referee Keith Peterson waving it off at exactly 2:00 of round one. The KFC Yum! Center erupted as Reyes celebrated his first victory since defeating Chris Weidman in October 2019.
The emotional significance of the finish was palpable. Reyes had endured four years of losses, criticism, and questions about whether he should continue fighting. The knockout not only snapped the losing streak but did so in emphatic, devastating fashionāthe kind of finish that made Reyes a contender in the first place.
"Dominick Reyes gets it done in Round 1!" became the rallying cry as highlights circulated on social media. The victory improved Reyes to 13-4 overall and provided hope that the former title challenger might have one more run in him.
For Jacoby, the knockout loss was crushing. The 36-year-old Dana White's Contender Series graduate fell to 19-9-1 overall and saw his own struggles continue. Despite flashes of success since returning to the UFC, Jacoby has been inconsistent, and this devastating first-round finish raised questions about his future in the loaded light heavyweight division.
The victory earned Reyes a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus and, more importantly, restored his belief that he can compete at the highest level. Whether this represents a genuine resurgence or simply a flash of his former greatness remains to be seen, but for one night in Louisville, Dominick Reyes was once again "The Devastator."
Raul Rosas Jr. vs Ricky Turcios - Bantamweight
Winner: Raul Rosas Jr. (United States) via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) at 2:22 of Round 2
Teenage bantamweight phenom Raul Rosas Jr. continued his rapid ascent through the UFC ranks with a second-round submission victory over The Ultimate Fighter Season 29 winner Ricky Turcios. The 19-year-old prodigy collected his second straight stoppage victory and third win in the UFC, cementing his status as one of the sport's most exciting prospects.
Rosas Jr., the youngest fighter to ever sign with the UFC, showcased the well-rounded skill set that has made him such a compelling prospect. Against Turcios, a proven veteran with solid grappling and striking, Rosas Jr. demonstrated patience, technical proficiency, and a killer instinct that belies his age.
The fight was competitive in the early going, with both bantamweights exchanging strikes and looking for openings. Turcios, the TUF 29 champion who earned his way into the UFC through the reality show, brought experience and toughness to the contest. However, Rosas Jr.'s youth, athleticism, and technical improvements proved to be the difference.
In the second round, Rosas Jr. secured a takedown and quickly advanced to back control. With Turcios defending desperately, the teenager remained calm and methodical, working to secure the choke. At 2:22 of round two, Rosas Jr. locked in a tight rear-naked choke that forced Turcios to tap immediately.
"Another submission victory for Raul Rosas Jr.!" echoed through the arena as the prodigy celebrated another finish. The win improved Rosas Jr. to 9-1 overall and 3-0 in the UFC, with all three Octagon victories showcasing different facets of his game. The performance earned him a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonusāhis second consecutive bonus after also earning one in his previous fight.
At just 19 years old, Rosas Jr. is already being discussed as a future bantamweight champion. His combination of grappling acumen, improving striking, and fearless mentality makes him a nightmare matchup for anyone in the division. UFC matchmakers will need to carefully navigate his development, balancing the desire to test him against quality competition with the need to not rush his progression.
For Turcios, the submission loss dropped him to 13-4 overall (2-2 UFC) and raised questions about his ability to compete with the division's elite. The 30-year-old Sacramento native has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled against higher-level competition, and being submitted by a teenagerāno matter how talentedāis a tough pill to swallow.
Rosas Jr.'s callout post-fight was notable: he wants to continue fighting frequently and against increasingly difficult competition. With his combination of youth, skill, and confidence, the bantamweight division should be on notice that a future star is emerging.
Brunno Ferreira vs Dustin Stoltzfus - Middleweight
Winner: Brunno Ferreira (Brazil) via TKO (Spinning Back Elbow) at 4:51 of Round 1
Brazilian middleweight Brunno Ferreira delivered one of the most spectacular knockouts of the year with a devastating spinning back elbow that separated Germany's Dustin Stoltzfus from consciousness. The finish came with just nine seconds remaining in the opening round and earned Ferreira a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus.
Ferreira, known for his perfect finish rate in victories (all 11 of his career wins had come by stoppage entering the bout), lived up to his reputation as one of the middleweight division's most dangerous finishers. The 31-year-old Brazilian from Curitiba displayed patient striking early in the fight, looking for the perfect opportunity to land a fight-ending blow.
Throughout the first round, both middleweights exchanged strikes with Ferreira gradually taking control. Stoltzfus, a submission specialist from Germany, attempted to close distance and implement his grappling game, but Ferreira's striking defense and takedown defense proved solid.
With less than 10 seconds remaining in the round, Ferreira saw an opening and spun with a back elbow that landed flush on Stoltzfus's jaw. The German fighter's body went limp instantly, collapsing to the canvas as referee Keith Peterson rushed in to stop the fight at 4:51 of round one. The spinning elbow was so perfectly timed and executed that Stoltzfus was unconscious before hitting the ground.
"Brunno Ferreira with the spinning back elbow knockout!" reverberated through the KFC Yum! Center as replay after replay showed the spectacular finish. The technique, timing, and power required to land such a strike are exceptional, and Ferreira executed it to perfection under the pressure of a high-stakes UFC bout.
The victory improved Ferreira to 12-1 overall (3-1 UFC) and maintained his perfect finish rateāall 12 career wins by knockout or submission. The 31-year-old has quickly established himself as a must-watch fighter in the middleweight division, with three of his four UFC appearances ending in stoppage victories.
For Stoltzfus, the brutal knockout loss dropped him to 15-6 overall (2-4 UFC). The 34-year-old German has struggled to find consistency in the UFC, with his mixed record raising questions about his place in the organization. Being knocked unconscious with such a highlight-reel technique will make the defeat even harder to swallow.
Ferreira's callout post-fight targeted ranked middleweights, making clear his desire for a step up in competition. With his finishing ability and exciting style, UFC matchmakers should have no trouble finding fans and opponents willing to face the dangerous Brazilian.
Zachary Reese vs Julian Marquez - Middleweight
Winner: Zachary Reese (United States) via TKO (Uppercut and Ground Strikes) at 0:20 of Round 1
In the fastest finish of the night, Texas's Zachary Reese demolished Julian Marquez with a vicious uppercut followed by ground strikes just 20 seconds into their middleweight contest. The explosive victory announced Reese's arrival in the UFC after a disappointing debut and marked a devastating setback for Marquez's comeback attempt.
Zach, a Dana White's Contender Series graduate, entered UFC Louisville looking to rebound from a knockout loss in his promotional debut. In December, Cody Brundage had finished Reese with a brutal slam and punch, handing the undefeated prospect his first career loss and casting doubt on whether he was ready for UFC competition.
Those questions were answered emphatically and immediately. From the opening bell, Reese came forward with bad intentions. Marquez, who hadn't fought in over a year and was returning after training with new camps to revitalize his career, appeared tentative. Just 20 seconds into the fight, Reese landed a devastating uppercut that sent Marquez crashing to the canvas.
Reese immediately followed his opponent to the ground, unleashing a barrage of ground-and-pound that forced referee Jason Herzog to intervene. The entire sequenceāfrom the opening bell to the stoppageālasted just 20 seconds, making it one of the fastest finishes in UFC Louisville history.
The victory improved Reese to 7-1 overall (1-1 UFC) and proved that his Contender Series performance (where he submitted Eli Aronov in 74 seconds) was no fluke. All seven of Reese's career victories have come in the first round, with the 25-year-old from Shiner, Texas still yet to see the second round as a professional. His finishing instinct and power are undeniable.
For Marquez, the devastating knockout loss extended his losing streak to three consecutive defeats and dropped him to 9-5 overall (3-4 UFC). The 34-year-old Las Vegas fighter had started his UFC career with a promising 3-1 run that even caught the attention of pop star Miley Cyrus, but those "15 minutes of fame went out the window" as he has now lost three straight, all via strikes. His career appears to be at a crossroads, with this 20-second destruction raising serious questions about his future in the promotion.
Reese's callout post-fight was bold: he wants to fight again as soon as possible against anyone willing to test themselves against his power. With his combination of finishing ability and confidence restored, the middleweight division has a new dangerous prospect to monitor.
Punahele Soriano vs Miguel Baeza - Welterweight
Winner: Punahele Soriano (United States) via Unanimous Decision (30-25, 30-25, 30-27)
In his welterweight debut, Punahele Soriano completely dominated Miguel Baeza over three rounds, earning the most lopsided scorecards of the night with two judges scoring it 30-25. The Hawaiian fighter controlled the final two frames so thoroughly that Baeza had no answers, marking a successful drop to 170 pounds for Soriano and a potential roster-threatening third consecutive loss for Baeza.
Both Dana White's Contender Series graduates entered the contest in dire straits. Soriano had gone just 1-4 in his last five fights at middleweight, with losses raising questions about his future in the UFC. Baeza had started his UFC career with an impressive 3-0 run (following a 7-0 regional record), earning stoppage victories over Hector Aldana, Matt Brown, and Takashi Sato. However, he had lost three straight entering this bout, with his once-promising career spiraling downward.
The first round was competitive, with both welterweights finding success with their striking. Baeza, a technical striker known for his precision, landed clean shots and moved well. However, as the fight progressed into the second round, Soriano's power, pressure, and size advantage at welterweight became overwhelming factors.
Soriano dominated the final two frames with relentless aggression and superior strength. The Las Vegas-based Hawaiian backed Baeza up repeatedly, landing the harder shots and controlling the pace. Baeza struggled to find answers for Soriano's pressure, and his output decreased dramatically as fatigue and accumulated damage took their toll.
By the third round, Soriano was firmly in control, battering Baeza with power shots and making a statement in his 170-pound debut. When the final horn sounded, there was no doubt about the outcome. The judges scored it 30-25, 30-25, and 30-27āall for Soriano in a near-shutout performance.
The victory improved Soriano to 10-4 overall (4-4 UFC) and provided hope that the drop to welterweight could revitalize his career. The 32-year-old showed that he could be a force at 170 pounds if he maintains the size and strength advantages displayed against Baeza.
For Baeza, the loss extended his skid to four consecutive defeats and dropped him to 10-4 overall (3-4 UFC). The 31-year-old from Davie, Florida faces a critical juncture in his career, as another loss could result in his release from the promotion. What was once a promising trajectory has completely derailed, and Baeza will need to make significant adjustments to turn things around.
Both fighters needed this win desperately to maintain their UFC roster spots. Soriano got it convincingly, while Baeza now faces an uncertain future that likely requires an immediate turnaround to avoid being cut.
Ludovit Klein vs Thiago MoisƩs - Lightweight
Winner: Ludovit Klein (Slovakia) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
In a one-sided lightweight affair that closed out the preliminary card, Slovakia's Ludovit Klein dominated Brazilian veteran Thiago MoisƩs over three rounds. All three judges scored every round for Klein in a 30-27 sweep, with the European fighter controlling the action from start to finish.
Klein, riding a strong 4-0-1 record in his last five fights, entered as the betting favorite despite MoisƩs's veteran status and solid 3-1 record in his last four outings. The 29-year-old from NovƩ ZƔmky demonstrated why he's considered a rising contender in the ultra-competitive lightweight division.
From the opening round, Klein implemented a tactical game plan that neutralized MoisƩs's strengths. The Brazilian, known for his well-rounded skill set and experience against high-level competition, found himself unable to establish rhythm or momentum. Klein mixed striking and grappling effectively, controlling range on the feet and winning scrambles when the fight hit the ground.
Klein's footwork and movement kept MoisƩs guessing throughout the contest. When the Brazilian attempted to close distance and engage in close-quarters exchanges, Klein circled away or clinched up to prevent sustained offense. The European's conditioning proved superior as well, with Klein maintaining his pace through all three rounds while MoisƩs appeared to fade.
By the third round, it was clear Klein had seized complete control of the fight. He dictated where the fight took place, landed the cleaner strikes, and frustrated the veteran Brazilian at every turn. MoisƩs's corner urged him to take risks and hunt for a finish, but Klein's technical proficiency and intelligent game plan prevented any late heroics.
The unanimous 30-27 scorecards reflected Klein's dominant performance. The victory improved him to 22-4-1 overall (4-1-1 UFC) and positioned him for a potential ranked opponent next. At 29 years old and in his prime, Klein represents an emerging threat in the lightweight divisionāa fighter with enough skill, experience, and confidence to compete with anyone at 155 pounds.
For MoisƩs, the lopsided loss dropped him to 18-8 overall (7-5 UFC) and halted his recent momentum. The 35-year-old from Indaiatuba, Brazil remains a tough and experienced opponent but may be reaching the point in his career where breaking into the top 15 is no longer realistic. Despite the loss, MoisƩs's veteran status ensures he'll continue receiving fights, likely serving as a gatekeeper for up-and-coming lightweights.
Klein's post-fight interview emphasized his desire for ranked competition, making clear he believes he's ready for the next level. With his recent run of success and dominant performance against a seasoned veteran, UFC matchmakers should take notice.
UFC Louisville: Cannonier vs Imavov - Prelim Results
Carlos Prates vs Charles Radtke - Welterweight
Winner: Carlos Prates (Brazil) via TKO (Knee to Liver) at 4:47 of Round 1
Dana White's Contender Series graduate Carlos Prates snapped the preliminary card's decision-heavy run with a punishing first-round body shot finish of Charles Radtke. The Brazilian landed a devastating knee to the liver that dropped Radtke and forced a stoppage late in the opening round.
Prates, making his second UFC appearance, showcased the finishing ability that earned him a contract on the Contender Series. Throughout the round, the SĆ£o Paulo native worked behind his jab and looked for opportunities to attack the body. Radtke, a Florida-based welterweight, competed well early but couldn't anticipate the fight-ending strike.
With just 13 seconds remaining in the first round, Prates timed a perfect knee to Radtke's liver. The body shot landed flush, immediately buckling Radtke, who collapsed to the canvas in agony. Anyone who has taken a clean liver shot knows the fight is over instantlyāthe pain is incapacitating and breathing becomes impossible. Referee Keith Peterson recognized this immediately and waved off the contest at 4:47.
The victory improved Prates to 19-6 overall (2-0 UFC) and marked his first UFC finish. The 30-year-old Brazilian proved he belongs in the UFC's loaded welterweight division with back-to-back victories and a highlight-reel knockout.
For Radtke, the body-shot TKO dropped him to 9-4 overall (0-1 UFC) in his promotional debut. The 32-year-old from Naples, Florida showed promise early but ultimately couldn't handle Prates's power and precision. His UFC career got off to a disappointing start, but the organization typically gives debutants more than one opportunity to prove themselves.
Brad Katona vs Jesse Butler - Bantamweight
Winner: Brad Katona (Canada) via Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
The only two-time winner of The Ultimate Fighter in UFC history, Canada's Brad Katona, turned in a dominant all-around performance against Louisiana's Jesse Butler. The Irish-based Canadian (originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba) showcased the full complement of his skills en route to a unanimous decision victory.
Katona, a bantamweight competitor with well-rounded abilities, controlled Butler from the opening bell. In both the first and second rounds, Katona dumped Butler to the canvas early, demonstrating superior wrestling and top control. In the second round, Katona landed a slicing elbow from top position that opened a significant cut, leaving Butler bleeding and in trouble.
After standing for much of the third round, Katona capitalized on a late slip to finish the fight by dropping heavy ground-and-pound from top position. The Irish-trained fighter's grappling dominance was the story throughout, with Butler unable to find answers for Katona's wrestling and control.
All three judges scored the bout decisively for Katona, with one judge giving him a 30-26 card. The victory improved Katona to 16-3 overall and demonstrated why he's twice won TUF (The Ultimate Fighter: Tournament of Champions at flyweight and later as a bantamweight). At 33 years old, Katona remains a crafty veteran who can make life difficult for anyone in the bantamweight division.
For Butler, the lopsided loss dropped him to 12-6 overall. The 30-year-old from West Monroe, Louisiana showed toughness in surviving Katona's ground assault but couldn't mount enough offense to threaten on the scorecards. His UFC debut ended in disappointing fashion, though his willingness to engage should earn him another opportunity.
Montana De La Rosa vs Andrea Lee - Women's Flyweight
Winner: Montana De La Rosa (United States) via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
In a rematch several years in the making, Montana De La Rosa edged Andrea Lee via split decision in an entertaining back-and-forth women's flyweight contest. The two American fighters had met previously, and this second encounter lived up to expectations with competitive action across all three rounds.
De La Rosa, a Fort Worth, Texas native, implemented her grappling-heavy game plan effectively. The classic striker-versus-grappler matchup saw Lee looking to keep the fight standing and use her technical striking, while De La Rosa hunted for takedowns and control time to sway the judges.
The bout featured multiple momentum swings, with Lee finding success in striking exchanges when she could keep De La Rosa at range. However, De La Rosa's wrestling proved to be the difference, as she secured key takedowns and accumulated control time that influenced the scoring.
The judges were split on the outcome, with two scoring it 29-28 for De La Rosa and one giving it 28-29 to Lee. The close nature of the contest made it difficult to score definitively, but De La Rosa's grappling edges and control time in key moments earned her the victory.
The win improved De La Rosa to 13-9-1 overall and provided an important rebound after recent struggles. For Lee, the split decision loss dropped her to 13-10 overall (5-7 UFC), continuing her pattern of alternating wins and losses that has prevented her from breaking into title contention.
Daniel Marcos vs John CastaƱeda - Bantamweight
Winner: Daniel Marcos (Peru) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Undefeated Peruvian bantamweight contender Daniel Marcos extended his winning streak to 16 consecutive victories with a dominant unanimous decision over Minnesota's John CastaƱeda. All three judges scored every round for the Lima native in a clean 30-27 sweep.
Marcos, riding a perfect 15-0-1 record entering the bout (with one no contest), showcased the technical striking and movement that has made him one of the bantamweight division's most intriguing prospects. The 28-year-old from Boca Raton, Florida (via Peru) controlled the pace and distance throughout the 15-minute contest, never allowing CastaƱeda to establish his offense.
Throughout all three rounds, Marcos picked CastaƱeda apart with precision striking, superior footwork, and intelligent defense. The Peruvian's jab was particularly effective, snapping CastaƱeda's head back repeatedly and setting up combinations. Whenever CastaƱeda attempted to close distance and engage in brawling exchanges, Marcos circled away or clinched up to neutralize the threat.
CastaƱeda, a tough veteran from Minneapolis, Minnesota with 21 wins entering the bout, simply couldn't solve the puzzle that Marcos presented. The American was game and willing to engage, but Marcos's technical superiority was evident from the opening bell. By the third round, CastaƱeda appeared frustrated as Marcos continued picking him apart at range.
The unanimous 30-27 scorecards reflected Marcos's dominance. The victory improved him to 16-0-1 (1 NC) overall and 3-0 (1 NC) in the UFC, positioning him for a significant step up in competition. With three consecutive wins in the Octagon, Marcos deserves consideration for a ranked opponent to test whether he's ready for bantamweight's elite.
For CastaƱeda, the lopsided loss dropped him to 21-7 overall (2-2 UFC) and snapped a two-fight winning streak. The 34-year-old veteran remains a solid fighter but appears to be a level below the division's rising contenders.
Marcos's post-fight demeanor was professional and confident, calling for ranked competition and making clear he believes he's ready to face the bantamweight division's best. At 28 years old and undefeated, the Peruvian prospect represents an intriguing challenge for any fighter in the top 15.
Denise Gomes vs Eduarda Moura - Women's Strawweight
Winner: Denise Gomes (Brazil) via Split Decision (30-27, 28-29, 30-27)
In an all-Brazilian strawweight battle overshadowed by a significant weight miss, Denise Gomes defeated Eduarda Moura via split decision in a contest that proceeded at a catchweight of 116.5 pounds. Despite the split decision labeling, Gomes dominated the vast majority of the fight against a heavier and compromised opponent.
The bout was marred by controversy before it even began. Moura, entering with a perfect 10-0 record and having finished all but one opponent, failed to make the 116-pound strawweight limit at Friday's weigh-in. She came in at 116.5 poundsāhalf a pound over the limitāmarking the second consecutive time in two UFC appearances that she had missed weight. At her debut in November 2023, Moura also exceeded the limit, citing menstrual problems at the time.
Moura appeared visibly unwell during the weigh-in process, raising questions about her weight-cutting methods and whether strawweight is a sustainable division for her. As penalty for missing weight, she forfeited 20% of her fight purse, which went to Gomes. Additionally, Moura was ruled ineligible to win any $50,000 post-fight bonus awards, removing financial incentive for a spectacular performance.
When the fight finally commenced, the weight cut's effects on Moura were immediately apparent. Gomes came out aggressive, utilizing active boxing and head movement to frustrate her opponent. The 25-year-old from NiterĆ³i demonstrated excellent technical striking, moving her head to avoid counters and landing clean combinations.
Moura, despite her size advantage from the failed weight cut, appeared compromised. In the opening moments, she was nearly choked out before quickly gassing. Outside of a few token takedowns that generated no real damage, Moura produced zero offense of her own. Her usual aggressive style and finishing instinct were nowhere to be found as fatigue set in early.
Gomes controlled the striking exchanges throughout, landing the cleaner, harder shots while making Moura miss repeatedly. The judges split on the verdictātwo scoring it 30-27 for Gomes and one inexplicably giving it 28-29 to Moura despite the lopsided nature of the action. The split decision labeling doesn't accurately reflect the fight, which Gomes won convincingly.
The victory improved Gomes to 9-3 overall (3-2 UFC) and provided an important rebound after her unanimous decision loss to Angela Hill in November 2023. The 25-year-old has alternated wins and losses throughout her UFC tenure but showed against Moura that she can dominate when facing compromised competition.
For Moura, the defeat dropped her to 10-1 overall (1-1 UFC) and raised serious questions about her future in the strawweight division. Having now missed weight in both UFC appearances, the promotion is unlikely to book her at 115 pounds again. The undefeated record is tarnished, and Moura's professionalism has been called into question. She would later be forced to move up to flyweight for future bouts, unable to safely make strawweight.
Taylor Lapilus vs Cody Stamann - Bantamweight
Winner: Taylor Lapilus (France) via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
French bantamweight Taylor Lapilus got back into the win column with a comprehensive unanimous decision victory over American veteran Cody Stamann. The judges scored it 30-27 across the board, with Lapilus using his significant reach advantage to pick apart Stamann from distance.
The fight was a tactical affair with Lapilus implementing a smart game plan. The Parisian fighter, standing noticeably taller than Stamann, took full advantage of his considerable reach to land strikes from range while remaining outside of the American's power pocket. Over the first two rounds, Lapilus peppered Stamann with jabs, straight punches, and kicks, accumulating damage and controlling the octagon.
Stamann, a divisional stalwart making his 14th UFC start, struggled to close the distance and implement his wrestling. The 34-year-old from Sparta, Michigan has built his career on grinding wrestling and control, but Lapilus's movement and length prevented Stamann from getting his hands on him consistently.
When Stamann did manage to close distance, Lapilus showed improved takedown defense and scrambling ability. The French fighter's varied arsenalāmixing punches, kicks, and knees from rangeākept Stamann guessing and unable to time his entries.
By the third round, the outcome was academic. Lapilus continued controlling range and landing the cleaner strikes while Stamann, frustrated and fatigued, couldn't mount a comeback. The unanimous 30-27 scorecards reflected Lapilus's control throughout all three rounds.
The victory improved Lapilus to 20-4 overall and gave him his second win in three starts since returning to the UFC. The 30-year-old had his six-fight winning streak snapped by Farid Basharat earlier in the year, but this performance against a veteran opponent suggests he's ready for ranked competition.
For Stamann, the loss marked his second consecutive defeat and fifth loss in seven fights dating back to summer 2020. The 35-year-old veteran fell to 21-7-1 overall (7-6-1 UFC) and appears to be sliding out of contention in the ultra-competitive bantamweight division. What was once a promising career trajectory has stalled, and Stamann now faces questions about his future trajectory at 135 pounds.
Puja Tomar vs Rayanne dos Santos - Women's Strawweight
Winner: Puja Tomar (India) via Split Decision (30-27, 27-30, 29-28)
In a historic moment at UFC Louisville for Indian mixed martial arts, Puja Tomar became the first Indian fighter to earn a victory in the UFC with a split decision win over Brazil's Rayanne dos Santos. The milestone achievement sent shockwaves through India's growing MMA community and established Tomar as a trailblazer for her country.
Tomar, "The Cyclone," arrived at UFC Louisville on a four-fight winning streak with finishes in her last three bouts. The 28-year-old represented India's hopes and dreams as she made her promotional debut, carrying the pressure of an entire nation watching her every move.
From the opening bell, Tomar utilized heavy body kicks to keep dos Santos on the outside. The Indian fighter's kicking game proved effective, with repeated strikes to the midsection and legs accumulating damage and controlling distance. Dos Santos, a former Invicta FC atomweight champion making her second UFC appearance, struggled to find her rhythm against Tomar's unorthodox attack.
The bout went the full 15 minutes with both strawweights having moments of success. Dos Santos showed her experience and toughness, landing clean punches when she could close distance. However, Tomar's activity, body work, and overall control appeared to sway the judges.
When the scorecards were read, two judges had it 30-27 and 29-28 for Tomar, while one judge scored it 30-27 for dos Santosāa bizarre card given the competitive but clear nature of Tomar's victory. Regardless of the split decision labeling, Tomar's hand was raised, and history was made.
The victory improved Tomar to 8-4 overall (1-0 UFC) and ignited celebrations across India. Social media exploded with congratulations as Tomar became not just the first Indian woman to compete in the UFC, but the first Indian fighter of any gender to earn a victory in the promotion.
For dos Santos, the split decision loss dropped her to 11-3 overall (0-2 UFC). The Brazilian, who dropped a split decision to Talita Alencar in her UFC debut last December, has now started her promotional tenure 0-2 despite competitive performances. The former Invicta champion will need to regroup following UFC Louisville: Cannonier vs Imavov, and must find her first UFC victory to keep her roster spot.
Tomar's historic achievement cannot be overstated. In a country where cricket dominates the sporting landscape, MMA has been growing steadily, and Tomar's victory provided a massive boost for the sport's development in India. Young Indian fighters now have a role model who proved that competing at the highest level is possible.
Notable Moments and Controversies
Controversial Main Event Stoppage: The biggest talking point from UFC Louisville was referee Jason Herzog's decision to stop the main event in the fourth round. While Nassourdine Imavov was clearly winning the exchange and Jared Cannonier was hurt, many felt the stoppage was premature. Cannonier was still intelligently defending himself, maintaining eye contact with his opponent, and attempting to fire back. The debate over whether fighters should be given more opportunity to recover from being hurt will continue, but this stoppage falls into the gray area that frustrates fans and fighters alike.
Dominick Reyes's Redemption: Perhaps the feel-good story of the night was Dominick Reyes ending his four-fight losing streak with a spectacular knockout. The former title challenger had fallen from nearly defeating Jon Jones to losing four consecutive fights, and many questioned whether he should continue fighting. The first-round knockout of Dustin Jacoby provided Reyes with validation and hope that his career isn't over.
Eduarda Moura's Weight Issues: Moura's second consecutive weight miss in two UFC appearances raises serious red flags about her professionalism and ability to compete at strawweight. Missing weight by half a pound might seem minor, but it represents a failure in preparation and discipline. Appearing visibly unwell at the weigh-in suggests Moura's weight-cutting methods are unsustainable. The UFC will almost certainly require her to move to flyweight for future bouts.
India's Historic Moment: Puja Tomar's victory as the first Indian fighter to win in the UFC cannot be understated. With India's population of over 1.4 billion people, the potential for MMA growth in the country is enormous. Tomar's success opens doors for future Indian fighters and helps legitimize MMA in a country where cricket has traditionally dominated.
Teenage Sensation Continues: Raul Rosas Jr.'s submission victory at UFC Louisville further cemented his status as one of MMA's brightest young prospects. At just 19 years old, Rosas Jr. is now 3-0 in the UFC with two consecutive finishes. The bantamweight division should be on notice that a future champion may be emerging.
Performance Bonuses
The UFC awarded $50,000 bonuses to the following fighters:
Fight of the Night: No award given (unusual for a UFC event)
Performance of the Night: Dominick Reyes (first-round knockout of Dustin Jacoby, ending four-fight losing streak)
Performance of the Night: Brunno Ferreira (spectacular spinning back elbow knockout of Dustin Stoltzfus)
Performance of the Night: Raul Rosas Jr. (second-round submission of Ricky Turcios, third consecutive finish)
Weight Issues
Only one fighter missed weight at UFC Louisville:
Eduarda Moura: Weighed 116.5 pounds for her strawweight bout against Denise Gomes (limit: 116 pounds). Moura missed by half a pound and forfeited 20% of her fight purse to Gomes. The bout proceeded at a catchweight of 116.5 pounds. Moura was also ruled ineligible for any post-fight bonuses.
This marked the second consecutive UFC appearance where Moura failed to make weight, raising serious questions about her future in the strawweight division.
Division Implications and Callouts
Middleweight Title Picture: Nassourdine Imavov's controversial victory over Jared Cannonier positions him as a legitimate top-five contender. His post-fight callout of former champion Robert Whittaker for a September fight in Paris sets up a potential title eliminator. With the middleweight division in flux, a win over Whittaker would likely earn Imavov a shot at champion Dricus Du Plessis.
Light Heavyweight Revival: Dominick Reyes's spectacular knockout raises questions about whether he can make one more run at the title. However, at 34 years old and with four consecutive losses on his record prior to this win, the UFC will likely test him carefully before putting him back into title contention. Nevertheless, the first-round finish proves he still possesses the power and skill that made him a contender.
Bantamweight Prospects: Raul Rosas Jr. continues his march through the bantamweight division with impressive finishes. UFC matchmakers face a delicate balance with the teenagerāchallenging him without rushing his development. A step up in competition seems inevitable, possibly against a fringe top-15 opponent to see if he's ready for ranked competition.
Welterweight Resurgence: Punahele Soriano's dominant welterweight debut suggests he's found his proper weight class. After struggling at middleweight, the Hawaiian looked significantly better at 170 pounds, displaying the size and strength advantages that could make him a factor in the division.
Historic Indian Victory: Puja Tomar's win at UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs Imavov opens doors for Indian MMA's growth. The UFC will likely book her in India if they return to the country, capitalizing on her historic achievement to help build the sport's popularity in one of the world's largest markets.
Looking Forward
UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs Imavov will be remembered for its explosive main card that featured five consecutive stoppages after a decision-heavy preliminary slate. The contrast between the prelims and main card highlighted the importance of matchmaking and creating exciting fights that resonate with fans.
The controversial main event stoppage will be debated for years, with Jared Cannonier supporters arguing he deserved more time to recover while Nassourdine Imavov fans pointing to the Frenchman's dominance in the exchange. Regardless of opinions on the stoppage, Imavov earned the biggest win of his career and positioned himself for a potential title shot with one more victory.
Dominick Reyes's knockout provided the night's most emotional moment, with a fighter who had endured four years of losses finally recapturing his finishing form. Whether this represents a genuine resurgence or simply a flash of his former greatness remains to be seen, but for one night in Louisville, "The Devastator" lived up to his nickname.
The emergence of Raul Rosas Jr. as a legitimate bantamweight contender despite being just 19 years old continues to captivate MMA fans. His combination of skill, confidence, and finishing ability suggests a future champion is in developmentāthe only question is how quickly the UFC will push his progression.
Finally, Puja Tomar's historic achievement cannot be overstated. As the first Indian fighter to win in the UFC, she's opened doors for an entire nation of fighters and helped legitimize MMA in a country with enormous growth potential. The impact of her victory will be felt for years to come as Indian MMA continues developing.
UFC Louisville delivered where it mattered mostāon the main cardāwith spectacular finishes that sent fans home happy despite the controversial main event stoppage. UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs Imavov proved that even without major star power, good matchmaking and exciting fighters can create memorable moments that resonate with fans worldwide.
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