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Ufc 309: 20 things you should know about historic msg event.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Jon Jones poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Several combat sports legends are scheduled to fight this weekend, and most won’t be in Texas for the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson event on Friday.

UFC 309 happens the following night at Madison Square Garden in New York, where Jon Jones, the greatest mixed martial artist of all time, takes on Stipe Miocic, the most accomplished heavyweight in the sport’s history.

Here are 20 things you should know about UFC 309.

When, Where and What Venue

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 11: A general view of the Octagon prior to the interim UFC heavyweight ... [+] championship fight during the UFC 295 event at Madison Square Garden on November 11, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

UFC 309 will take place on November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The event will be streamed on ESPN+ PPV.

UFC 309 Main Event

Jones and Miocic is a matchup that many have longed to see, but by many accounts, it might be happening at the wrong time. Nonetheless, Jones will add another notch to his impressive belt with a win. Miocic could become the first man to defeat Jones legitimately, adding an unquestionable feather to his cap.

Dana White Should Never Book Former Champion For Another Fight

Today’s nyt mini crossword clues and answers for sunday, november 17th, nfl picks, props and week 11 odds: chiefs-bills and ravens-steelers, jon jones' heavyweight reign.

Jones defended the light heavyweight championship 11 times against the best in his division throughout his era. Saturday’s clash will mark the first time Jones has defended the title he won when he submitted Ciryl Gane in March 2023. The title was vacated by Francis Ngannou, who left the promotion as champion before signing with the Professional Fighters League.

Stipe Miocic's Return

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Stipe Miocic poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Miocic hasn’t fought since March 2021, when he was savagely knocked out by Ngannou, losing the heavyweight title. If he wins, he’ll become UFC's second three-time heavyweight champion. Randy Couture also won the title three times.

Fighter Layoffs

The combined layoffs for Jones (20 months) and Miocic (44 months) are five-plus years. That’s the most extended combined layoff in the history of the UFC heavyweight championship. The long layoffs add to the uncertainty about the outcome, though Jones is a massive favorite.

Decorated Backup

Tom Aspinall during the Heavyweight fight at the Co-op Live Arena, Manchester. Picture date: ... [+] Saturday July 27, 2024. (Photo by Richard Sellers/PA Images via Getty Images)

UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall will serve as the official backup for Jones or Miocic. If either man cannot compete, Aspinall would step in to take his place.

However, that’s a sticky situation. If Jones or Miocic fell off the card for whatever reason, it is unclear if either man would go through with a fight with Aspinall. In which case, Aspinall would be elevated from interim to undisputed heavyweight champion.

Co-Main Event Rematch

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MAY 15: Charles Oliveira of Brazil and Michael Chandler exchange punches during ... [+] their Championship Lightweight Bout at the UFC 262 event at Toyota Center on May 15, 2021 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

The co-main event isn’t a title bout, but it is a five-round lightweight rematch between former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira and former Bellator champion Michael Chandler.

Their first fight happened at UFC 262 in May 2021. After a slow start, Oliveira got the win via second-round TKO. Both men have plans to chase the 155-pound title in 2025. Winning on Saturday is vital in either man accomplishing their goal.

Chandler is Done Waiting on McGregor, For Now

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Michael Chandler poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session ... [+] on November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Chandler hasn’t fought since November 2022. He’s spent most of that time waiting for a fight with Conor McGregor.

Because that never happened, Chandler is moving on with his career, and that starts with a clash with Oliveira. However, Chandler vows to fight McGregor in 2025.

Oliveira is Looking to Bounce Back

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Charles Oliveira poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session ... [+] on November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Oliveira is coming off a loss to Arman Tsarukyan in April. Had Oliveira won, he could rematch UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. A loss to Chandler would be devastating for Oliveira at this career stage.

Bo Nickal's Return

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Bo Nickal poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Middleweight super-prospect Bo Nickal returns to the Octagon. The undefeated American will get a test from an experienced opponent who may be one of the few with a ground game capable of competing with the accomplished amateur wrestler.

The UFC has built Nickal slowly but surely, and a win over Craig would likely mean that the former will be matched with a ranked opponent in his next fight.

Bo Nickal's Streak

Nickal didn’t enter the UFC with much experience from independent promotions. Still, he’s done nothing but win impressively since he broke into the UFC on the Dana White Contender Series with two submission wins in 2022.

Nickal is 6-0 in the UFC, and the 28-year-old might be the fastest-rising young star in the promotion.

Top-10 Women's Flyweight Clash

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Karine Silva poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

A huge fight is scheduled on the card in the UFC’s women’s flyweight division. No. 5 Karine Silva will try to run her win streak to ten in a row against No. 9 Viviane Araujo.

If Silva wins, she’ll put herself in a position to move one step closer to a title shot. It would make sense for her to face Erin Blanchfield next, with the winner getting a title shot during their next outing.

Chris Weidman's Comeback Continues

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Chris Weidman poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman is continuing his comeback following severe leg injuries. Weidman snapped a two-fight losing streak with a win over Bruno Silva in March.

He’ll try to make it two in a row with a win over Eryk Anders.

Jim Miller Will Set Another Record

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 03: Jim Miller reacts after his knockout victory over Jesse Butler in a ... [+] lightweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on June 03, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Jim Miller is set to compete in the 57th MMA bout of his career. The 41-year-old will push his record for most UFC fights to 45. Miller’s longevity is remarkable. He’ll face another aging veteran in Damon Jackson.

Potential Retirements

Because of the circumstances with multiple fighters, UFC 309 could turn into a retirement party. Jones and Miocic said they were unsure if they would fight beyond Saturday.

So, there is a possibility you could see a double retirement following the main event. Miller and Weidman could theoretically call it a career–especially if they lose.

Other Fighters to Watch

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 13: Mauricio Ruffy poses for a portrait during a UFC photo session on ... [+] November 13, 2024 in New York, New York. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

Mauricio Ruffy is one of the most dynamic newcomers in the UFC.

The Brazilian hails from the fast-emerging Fighting Nerds camp and he has some definite McGregor vibes with his striking. Ruffy carries enormous star potential. He faces James Llontop in a fight that will open the pay-per-view.

Fighters Who Might Need to Win to Avoid Being Cut

CLEVELAND, OH - SEPTEMBER 10: Mickey Gall celebrates after defeating Phil 'CM Punk' Brooks by ... [+] submission in their welterweight bout during the UFC 203 event at Quicken Loans Arena on September 10, 2016 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Jackson is facing an aging legend in Miller, but he is 36, and he’s lost three of his last four fights. If he loses to Miller, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him released sometime next week.

Mickey Gall might also be on dangerous ground. He is on a three-fight losing streak. The 32-year-old is 7-6 overall, and his most significant career wins came over CM Punk and Sage Northcutt. Gall faces Ramiz Brahimaj, and the former needs a win.

UFC 309 Full Card

Here is a look at the full card scheduled for MSG.

Main Card (ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET)

• Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic
• Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler
• Bo Nickal vs. Paul Craig
• Viviane Araujo vs. Karine Silva
• Mauricio Ruffy vs. James Llontop

Prelims (ESPNews/FX/Hulu/ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET)

• Jonathan Martinez vs. Marcus McGhee
• Chris Weidman vs. Eryk Anders
• Jim Miller vs. Damon Jackson
• David Onama vs. Roberto Romero

Early Prelims (ESPN+/Hulu/UFC Fight Pass at 6 p.m. ET)

• Marcin Tybura vs. Jhonata Diniz
• Mickey Gall vs. Ramiz Brahimaj
• Bassil Hafez vs. Oban Elliott
• Veronica Hardy vs. Eduarda Moura

Ticket Availability

As of early Thursday morning, tickets for UFC 309 were available. Prices ranged from $384 to $6784 for floor seats on Vivid Seats.

President Trump Expected to Attend

MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 08: Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends UFC 287 at Kaseya Center on ... [+] April 08, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

Newly elected President Donald Trump is expected to attend UFC 309 . Trump has attended several UFC events over the years, but this would be his first since winning the most recent election.

Be on the lookout for fight coverage culminating with post-event coverage.

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UFC News & Features

Referees, judges selected for title bouts at ufc 296.

• UFC 309 Bonuses: Jon Jones, Four Others Awarded $50K
• Matches to Make After UFC 309
• Jon Jones Torments, Retires Stipe Miocic to Retain Heavyweight Crown at UFC 309
• UFC 309 ‘Jones vs. Miocic’ Play-by-Play, Results & Round Scoring
• Video: UFC 309 Post-Fight Press Conference

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EVENTS / FIGHTS

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Results | UFC 286: Edwards vs Usman 3

Following a pair of successful events and an historic Stateside knockout in August, the UFC made its pay-per-view return to London on Saturday, bringing welterweight champion Leon Edwards home to England to defend his title in an immediate rematch and trilogy bout with former champ Kamaru Usman in the main event of UFC 286.

The O2 Arena was chock-a-block from the start of this 15-fight card and the men and women that made the walk to the Octagon gave them plenty to be excited about over the course of the day, with business really picking up on the pay-per-view portion of the show.

Catch up on what happened during an electric day of action in the United Kingdom with the fight recaps below.   | Official Scorecards  

UFC 286: Edwards vs Usman 3 Results

Veronica hardy defeats juliana miller by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27), jai herbert and ludovit klein fight to a majority draw (29-27, 28-28, 28-28), joanne wood defeats luana carolina by split decision (28-29, 30-27, 29-28), jake hadley defeats malcolm gordon by tko (strikes) at 1:01 of round 1.

• Christian Leroy Duncan defeats Dusko Todorovic by TKO (injury) at 1:52 of Round 1

Lerone Murphy defeats Gabriel Santos by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

• Muhammad Mokaev defeats Jafel Filho by submission at 4:32 of Round 3
• Yanal Ashmouz defeats Sam Patterson by KO (strikes) at 1:15 of Round 1

Chris Duncan defeats Omar Morales by split decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)

Jack shore defeats makwan amirkhani by submission (rear-naked choke) at 4:27 of round 2, marvin vettori defeats roman dolidze by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27).

• Jennifer Maia defeats Casey O’Neill by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Gunnar Nelson defeats Bryan Barberena by submission (armbar) at 4:51 of Round 1

• Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje defeats Rafael Fiziev by majority decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)

Main Event: Leon Edwards defeats Kamaru Usman by majority decision (48-46, 48-46, 47-47)

Ufc 286: edwards vs usman 3 early prelim results  .

Fighting for the first time in more than three years, Veronica Hardy picked up her first UFC win since August 2019 in Saturday’s opener, out-hustling TUF 30 winner Juliana Miller .

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Hardy had a clear experience advantage and relied on it throughout the fight, punishing Miller on the feet and taxing her opponent every time she looked to get the fight to the canvas and chase submissions. Her pace remained quick throughout, and she landed her best shot of the fight late in the contest, blasting Miller with a high kick with just over a minute remaining in the contest.

This was an excellent effort from Hardy, who is still just 27 years old and looks to be settled into competing in the flyweight ranks. With the win, she moves to 2-4 inside the Octagon and 7-4-1 overall, while Miller falls to 4-2 with the loss.| Official Scorecards  

A competitive lightweight scrap between Ludovit Klein and Jai Herbert turned on a pair of inadvertent low blows resulting in a point deduction against Herbert in the final round.

The lightweight fight between Jai Herbert (L) of England and Ludovit Klein (R) of Slovakia is declared a draw during the UFC 286 event at The O2 Arena on March 18, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

Herbert did well off his back in the opening frame, hurting Klein with upkicks, punches, and elbows that opened up a cut over the left eye of the Slovakian. In the second, Klein responded by making sharp adjustments and taking the fight to Herbert to draw level. A second borderline low blow from Herbert prompted referee Rich Mitchell to dock the British veteran a point in the third, which spurred Herbert into action, as he dominated the round from that point forward.

The outcome came down to how the judges scored the contest and when the scores were tallied, the result was a majority draw. | Official Scorecards  

Joanne Wood and Luana Carolina went shot-for-shot for 15 minutes on Saturday’s prelims, with the Scottish veteran starting well and her Brazilian counterpart finding her footing and growing into the fight as it progressed.

Wood was the more technical of the two throughout, doing good work in the clinch and on the breaks, creating a massive mouse under the right eye of Carolina over the course of the contest, but “Dread” certainly had positive moments of her own. Her left hand was sharp over the final two rounds and caused Wood trouble, but the former Ultimate Fighter contestant was able to respond in kind and crank up the impact of her offence down the stretch.

For the third consecutive fight, the judges were called upon to decide the outcome, and when their scores were tabulated, Wood took home the split decision victory, spanning a three-fight slide in the process.| Official Scorecards  

Jake Hadley knew Malcolm Gordon struggled to make weight, and he went out and took advantage of that on Saturday, collecting a first-round stoppage win over the Canadian veteran.

The British Contender Series graduate stung Gordon with a body shot right out of the chute and continued to go back to that well in the clinch. A pair of digging left hands caused Gordon to crumble to the canvas, sending Hadley into celebration mode and the fans in attendance into hysterics.

After dropping his debut, Hadley has now collected back-to-back stoppage wins to establish himself as an ascending name to watch in the flyweight division.| Official Scorecards  

Christian Leroy Duncan defeats Dusko Todorovic by TKO (injury) at 1:52 of Round 1

It’s not the way Christian Leroy Duncan wanted to win his promotional debut, but the former Cage Warriors middleweight champ comes away with a first-round stoppage win after Dusko Todorovic suffered a knee injury early in the first round.

Duncan looked good on the feet in the initial exchanges, switching stances well. As they two clinched and circled off the fence, Todorovic’s knee buckled and he crumpled to the canvas, bringing the fight to an immediate halt.

It’s an anticlimactic finish to what was a highly anticipated contest, but it’s a win nonetheless for “CLD,” who moves to 8-0 with the victory and remains someone to keep tabs on in the middleweight division going forward.| Official Scorecards  

Featherweights Lerone Murphy and Gabriel Santos closed out the early preliminary card slate with a barnburner.

From the jump, the pair got after it, no quarter asked and none given, with each man responding almost immediately when the other would land. Murphy seemed to land the higher impact blows on the feet, but Santos did well whenever the fight hit the canvas, threatening with submissions in each of the first two rounds. In the third, Murphy pulled away on the feet, his gas tank holding up better than his late-notice replacement.

The judges were called upon again to determine the victor, and two of the three judges felt that Murphy had done more. With the win, “The Miracle” extends his winning streak to four and his unbeaten streak to a baker’s dozen, while Santos suffers the first loss of his career, but sees his stock rise after a strong short-notice effort here.| Official Scorecards  

UFC 286: Edwards vs Usman 3 Prelim Fight Results 

Muhammad mokaev defeats jafel filho by submission at 4:32 of round 3.

The lights went out in The O2 Arena before the fight and once they came back on, Muhammad Mokaev continued to shine, securing his fourth consecutive UFC win with an incredibly gutsy third-round submission win.

Mokaev successfully put Filho on the canvas in all three rounds, controlling him on the deck for solid stretches. But the biggest moment of the fight came midway through the final stanza, when Filho attacked kneebar and appeared to have Mokaev dead to rights. Despite his knee being bent at a gruesome angle, the 22-year-old refused to tap, scrambled back to his feet, secured the takedown, and found the finish.

This was a resilient performance in a high-risk fight for the talented emerging star, who moves to 4-0 inside the Octagon and 10-0 with one No Contest overall with the victory.| Official Scorecards  

Yanal Ashmouz defeats Sam Patterson by KO (strikes) at 1:15 of Round 1

Welcome to the UFC, Yanal Ashmouz !

“The Red Fox” planted a left hook on Sam Patterson’s temple that sent the towering Englishman to the Shadow Realm as he fell to the canvas, and from there, Ashmouz chased him to the canvas and pounded out the finish.

This was an absolutely blistering debut effort from the undefeated Israeli lightweight, who moved to 7-0 with the knockout win. Just an outstanding performance! | Official Scorecards  

Newcomer Chris Duncan and roster mainstay Omar Morales engaged in a competitive cat-and-mouse contest in the penultimate preliminary card fight of the evening, with “The Problem” grinding out a win in his first foray into the Octagon.

The second half of the opening stanza became a bit of a slugfest, with each man tagging the other and enjoying the back-and-forth exchanges. Over the final two rounds, Morales had more success in space, battering Duncan’s lead leg, while the Scottish lightweight looked to wrestle, neutralizing his Venezuelan foe along the fence for extended stretches.

It was a close, quality battle between two solid lightweights, and when the scores were added up, Duncan came out ahead, securing a victory in his promotional debut to move to 10-1 overall. After winning his first two UFC appearances, Morales has now suffered three straight losses, falling to 11-4 with Saturday’s setback.| Official Scorecards  

Jack Shore closed out the prelims by making a successful debut in the featherweight division, rallying after dropping the first round to Makwan Amirkhani to secure the second-round submission win.

Amirkhani needed a single takedown to control things in the first, putting the former bantamweight prospect on the deck and keeping him there for the duration. In the second, Shore came out more aggressive on the feet in the second, stinging “Mr. Finland” with clean shots and high kick offerings before putting him on the canvas and climbing into mount. After looking at an arm-triangle choke, Shore switched off to a rear-naked choke when Amirkhani gave up his back, and quickly secured the finish.

After spending the whole of his UFC career at bantamweight prior to Saturday night,  Shore looked sharp in his first appearance at featherweight. He was bounced from the ranks of the unbeaten last time out, but got right back into the win column here, moving to 17-1 as a pro with the victory. | Official Scorecards  

UFC 286: Edwards vs Usman 3 Main Card Fight Results 

Middleweights Marvin Vettori and Roman Dolidze were throwing hammers from the outset to kick off the UFC 286 pay-per-view, eventually settling into a more technical, tactical battle.

Both men were amped up to start the fight, with the opening five minutes featuring high volume from Vettori, who added a higher kicking output to his arsenal since his last fight, and more power shots from Dolidze. In the second and third, “The Italian Dream” banked on his output and movement, remaining technical while Dolidze looked to score with high-impact blows at a much lower clip.

It all came down to how the judges saw things, with Vettori landing a far greater total volume, but Dolidze arguably scoring with the bigger singular shots. When the scorecards were collected and added up, the officials were unanimous in seeing the fight for Vettori, who gets back into the win column and solidifies his place in the middleweight Top 5. | Official Scorecards  

Jennifer Maia defeats Casey O’Neill by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Jennifer Maia proved to be too tough a veteran test for Casey O’Neill in London, out-duelling the emerging flyweight in a boxing-centric main card battle.

The Brazilian came out moving well and landing at a greater clip, stinging O’Neill with clean right hands as she came forward before using her movement to keep her range and force O’Neill to follow. While the Scottish-Australian prospect had positive moments of her own and showed her tenacity by constantly pressing forward into the fray, she just wasn’t able to mount enough sustained offence to get Maia off her game and out of her rhythm.

Maia has now earned consecutive victories over younger fighters looking to climb beyond her in the rankings, cementing her position as a Top 10 fixture in the process. O’Neill suffered the first loss of her pro career with the defeat, but showed she’s still one of the brightest young talents on the roster in the process. | Official Scorecards  

Gunnar Nelson showcased his grappling prowess in the middle of the main card, working patiently to get Bryan Barberena to the canvas before diving on an armbar in the final seconds of the opening round.

Barberena chopped at the lead leg early in the contest, but the Icelandic veteran continued to march forward, eventually closing the distance, elevating his opponent, and dumping him to the canvas. From there, Nelson systematically worked to mount, mashing home elbows and teasing different submission looks, all designed to create the opening for the armbar.

This was a tremendous performance for the popular welterweight, who collected a second straight win in London and reminded everyone of his expertise on the ground in the process. | Official Scorecards  

Co-Main Event: Justin Gaethje defeats Rafael Fiziev by majority decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28)

The co-main event between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev was everything it was expected to be and more, with the standout lightweights trading power shots for 15 wildly entertaining minutes.

Fiziev was the quicker of the two from the outset, taking the fight to Gaethje and having a good deal of success in the first before the American contender battled back in the second, leaving Fiziev bruised and bleeding heading into the third. Early in the final round, Fiziev blasted Gaethje with a clean right hand that would send everyone else in the division to the Shadow Realm, but “The Highlight” somehow remained upright, responded, and then rallied, putting it on the emerging contender in the second half of the round.

They fought tooth and nail to the final bell, leaving the responsibility to determine a winner in the hands of the judges, with Gaethje emerging with a hard-fought majority decision victory.

This was an outstanding fight between two elite lightweights, with Gaethje showing he’s still got plenty left in the tank. | Official Scorecards  

Each fight in the series between these two men has continued to get better, with the UFC 286 main event standing as the best of the bunch.

For all five rounds, the welterweight rivals ran close to level, with each man having moments where they landed good shots: Edwards chopping with loads of kicks, Usman pressuring constantly, working behind his hands, and neither really grabbing a clear advantage. They battled each other every step of the way, right to the final horn, leaving the outcome in the hands of the judges.

A third-round point deduction against Edwards for grabbing the fence to deny a takedown attempt loomed large, hovering as a pivotal moment in an ultra-competitive, freakishly close fight between two fighters with a ton of history between them. 

When the scores were added up, Edwards emerged with a majority decision victory, retaining his title in an absolute classic against an all-time great that brought greatness out of him in the biggest moment of his career. | Official Scorecards  

UFC 286: Edwards vs Usman 3  took place live from the O2 Arena in London in March 18, 2023. See the Final Results , Official Scorecards and Who Won Bonuses - and relive the action on UFC Fight Pass !

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Ufc 286 play-by-play and live results, share this article.

LONDON –  UFC 286 takes place Saturday, and you can join us for live play-by-play and official results.

UFC 286 takes place at The O2 in London. The main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims on ESPNews and early prelims on ESPN+.

In the main event, welterweight champion Leon Edwards (20-3 MMA, 12-2 UFC) puts his title on the line for the first time against former champ Kamaru Usman (20-2 MMA, 15-1 UFC), whom he knocked out with a dramatic fifth-round head kick this past August. Their fight is a trilogy and is knotted at 1-1 – but this time, the stakes are their highest yet.

Plus, Rafael Fiziev (12-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC) takes on former interim lightweight titleholder Justin Gaethje (23-4 MMA, 6-4 UFC) in the co-main event. The two have 15 combined post-fight bonuses in 17 combined UFC fights.

Follow along with our round-by-round updates and official results beginning at approximately 12:30 p.m. ET for the early prelims on ESPN+, 3 p.m. for the prelims on ESPNews and 5 p.m. ET for the main card on pay-per-view.

To discuss the show, be sure to check out our UFC 286 discussion thread . You can also get behind-the-scenes coverage and other event notes from on-site reporters Farah Hannoun ( @Farah_Hannoun ) and Abbey Subhan ( @kammakaze ) on Twitter.

Enjoy the fights, everyone.

Veronica Hardy vs. Juliana Miller

Round 1 – Big left hand early by Hardy, as she countered Miller’s kick. Oh, and Hardy drops Miller, but Miller gets back up. She seems ok. Miller keeps pressing Hardy here and keeps getting caught in the counter. Hardy with great movement and precision. Miller having a tough time fining Hardy. Two minutes left. Clean one, two by Hardy. Miller presses Hardy against the cage, while looking for a takedown. Miller attempts a throw, but end up on the bottom. Miller aggressively goes for submissions, but Hardy quickly escapes and the bell rings shortly after.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Hardy.

Round 2 – Miller comes out aggressive! Oh, Hardy with a nasty counter. What a chin by Miller. Miller closes the distance, goes for another throw and ends on the bottom. Miller locks up an armbar. It looks dangerous. Great scramble by Hardy. She escapes and is now in half guard. Good ground-and-pound by Hardy. Miller recovers guard. Three minutes left. Another armbar attempt by Miller. Hardy escapes and lands a few shots. Hardy advances back to half-guard. Nasty elbow by Hardy. Miller’s forehead has a big bump. Hardy gets back up and gets the fight to resume on the feet. Miller immediately closes the distance and looks to takedown Hardy. Miller with another failed throw and ends on bottom. Good shots by Hardy. Miller attacks with a kimura. It’s tight! Hardy rolls over and the bell rings.

Round 3 – Miller needs a finish here. She’s pressing Hardy hard. This time, Hardy pins her against the cage and gets the takedown. Miller locks up a kimura. Hardy is out. Miller relentless with submission attacks. She now locks up a kneebar. Hardy seems ok. Hardy with body shots, as Miller holds on to her leg. Hardy is out, but Miller now presses her against the cage. Hardy reverses the position. She gets a takedown. Miller again attempting submissions, but Hardy escapes. They’re back up. Good left hand by Hardy. Hardy gets a takedown. One minute left. Hardy gets back up. Oh! Huge head kick by Hardy. Miller is hurt. Hardy now presses Miller against the cage. Hardy scores a takedown. She lands ground-and-pound until the bell.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Hardy. Overall 30-27, Hardy.

Result : Veronica Hardy def. Juliana Miller via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27) Photos : Veronica Hardy def. Juliana Miller at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Veronica Hardy (7-4-1 MMA, 2-4 UFC), Juliana Miller (3-2 MMA, 1-1 UFC) Division : Flyweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Lukasz Bosacki Judging : Chris Lee, Vito Paolillo, Paul Sutherland 30-27.

Jai Herbert vs. Ludovit Klein

Round 1 – Klein pressing Herbert here. He closes the distance and gets a takedown. Klein working from guard. Herbert goes for an armbar, but quickly abandons it. Good control here by Klein. And Herbert with some good upkicks. Again! Klein is bleeding. Herbert gets back up. Man, Herbert pieced him up while on bottom. Klein back to pressing on Herbert, while Herbert backs up and counters. They trade knees in the clinch. Good combo connects for Herbert. One minute left. Herbert with plenty of damage here. Credit to Klein he took those shots well. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Herbert.

Round 2 – Klein looks to close the distance here. He pins Herbert against the cage. Herbert breaks away and lands a few shots before getting pressed against the cage again. They break away, but good elbows from Klein in the break. Herbert landing the better shots here, but his output is a little low. He’s really taking his time with shot placement. Good leg kicks by Herbert. Two minutes left. Klein closes the distance and presses Herbert against the cage. Herbert escapes. Herbert now putting the pressure on the feet. Good elbow from Klein in close quarters. The bell rings.

Round 3 – Klein comes out aggressive, connects with a couple of kicks. Good leg kick by Herbert. Herbert pins Klein against the cage and knees him in the groin. The fight is paused. After a few seconds, the action resumes. No point taken from Herbert. Good knee to the body by Herbert. Klein pressing Herbert hard. Herbert gets clinch control against the cage on Klein. Another illegal low blow lands for Herbert. The fight is paused. Herbert gets a point deduction. Herbert comes out aggressive and scores a trip on Klein. Herbert working from half guard. Good elbows by Herbert. Two minutes left. Good ground-and-pound by Herbert. And Klein gets a reversal! One minute left. Herbert scrambles back to his feet and now presses Klein against the cage. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 9-9. Overall, 29-27, Herbert.

Result : Jai Herbert vs. Ludovit Klein ends in a majority draw (29-27, 28-28, 28-28) Photos : Jai Herbert vs. Ludovit Klein at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Jai Herbert (12-4-1 MMA, 2-3-1 UFC), Ludovit Klein (19-4-1 MMA, 3-2-1 UFC) Division : Lightweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Ritch Mitchell Judging : David Lethaby 29-28, Mark Collett, Clemens Werner 28-28. 

Luana Carolina vs. Joanne Wood

Round 1 – Wood comes out pressuring and immediately closes the distance and presses Carolina against the cage. She gets immediately reversed, now Carolina is doing the pressing. Reverse again. They break free. Good right hand by Wood. And both get into a wild exchange and both connect. Three minutes left. Wood walking her down here. Big right hand by Carolina! Wood closes the distance and presses Carolina against the cage. Carolina breaks free. These two exchanging, but neither landing anything significant. Wood seems to be a bit more accurate than Carolina. Wood walks her down to the final bell.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Wood.

Round 2 – Again, Wood comes out pressuring and Carolina looks to back up and set up the counter. Good combo by Carolina. Looks like she’s found her range. Good right hand by Wood. Wood now closes the distance and presses Carolina against the cage. They break away. Carolina’s right eye is swelling up. Good knees from the clinch by Carolina. Nice elbow from the clinch by Wood. Two minutes left. Wood’s right eye is also showing some swelling too. Leg kick connects by Carolina. Good sweep by Wood. She ends the round while kicking the legs of a downed Carolina.

Round 3 – Same dynamic here. Wood walks down, a much rangy and longer Carolina.Both fighters look tired and have slowed down significantly. Wood doing most of the work though. They clinch against the cage and both trade big knees. They break away. A lot of clinch fighting in this round. Good knees from both. Big right hand by Carolina. A lot of strikes from both, but neither connecting clean. Wood sweeps Carolina to the ground, but the Brazilian quickly gets back up. Oh! Right on the bell, Wood seemed to have wobbled Carolina.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Wood. Overall 30-27, Wood.

Result : Joanne Wood def. Luana Carolina via split decision (30-27, 29-28, 28-29). Photos : Joanne Wood def. Luana Carolina at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Joanne Wood (16-8 MMA, 8-8 UFC), Luana Carolina (8-4 MMA, 3-3 UFC) Division : Women’s flyweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Herb Dean Judging : Ben Cartlidge 29-28. David Lethaby 30-27. Vito Paolillo 28-29.

Malcolm Gordon vs. Jake Hadley

Round 1 – Hadley comes out aggressive, putting the pressure on Gordon. Clean body shot by Hadley. Again! Oh, Gordon goes to the ground. A few extra shots and the referee stops the fight. What a finish by Hadley!

Result : Jake Hadley def. Malcolm Gordon via TKO (body shots) – Round 1, 1:01. Recap : Jake Hadley makes quick work of Malcolm Gordon, calls out Muhammad Mokaev Photos : Jake Hadley def. Malcolm Gordon at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Jake Hadley (10-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC), Malcolm Gordon (14-7 MMA, 2-4 UFC) Division : Flyweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Marc Goddard

Christian Duncan vs. Dusko Todorovic

Round 1 – Hard leg kick by Todorovic. Duncan answers back with a leg kicks of his own. Another leg kick by Todorovic. Duncan clinches Todorovic and pushed him against the cage. Duncan trying for the takedown, but Todorovic defending well. Todorovic reverses the position and drops to the canvas on his own. The fight is over. Todorovic hurt his knee in the reversal. Very unfortunate.

Result : Christian Duncan def. Dusko Todorovic via TKO (knee injury) – Round 1, 1:52. Recap : Dusko Todorovic knee injury ends Christian Leroy Duncan fight early Photos : Christian Duncan def. Dusko Todorovic at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Christian Duncan (8-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC), Dusko Todorovic (12-4 MMA, 3-4 UFC) Division : Middleweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Lukasz Bosacki

Lerone Murphy vs. Gabriel Santos

Round 1 – Murphy with a few leg kicks to get things started. Santos immediately goes for the takedown and gets it. Murphy reverses the position, and now he’s on top. Santos working on getting a triangle choke. Murphy defending well and he’s out! Murphy lets Santos back to his feet. Leg kick by Murphy. Santos with two leg kicks. Body kick by Murphy. Three minutes left. Nasty body kick by Santos. Kick heavy attacks from both. Clean combo connects for Murphy. What a pace here. Clean left connects for Murphy. Both these guys connecting plenty here. Takedown by Santos. One minute left. Murphy has a cut on his right eyelid. Murphy gets back up. Good body shot by Santos. Big left hand by Santos. Murphy with a body kick. Santos connects with a few shots, right before the bell rings. Fun round.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Santos.

Round 2 – Oh! A clean left hand connects for Santos. These two clinch up and they both connects shots. Murphy now pressing Santos against the cage. Murphy gets the takedown. He’s on side control. Santos recovers guard. Santos gets back to his feet and lands a left hook. The fight is paused after a low blow from Murphy. Santos recovers quickly and the fight is resumed. No point taken from Murphy. Head-kick connects for Santos. Murphy eats it well. Big right by Murphy, then big left by Santos. Santos drops Murphy with a leg kick, but he gets back up. Santos gets a takedown. He takes the back of Murphy. Good control here by Santos. One minute left. Murphy trying to escape, but Santos with excellent control. Santos with a few shots. Santos transitions to an armbar! It’s tight! Murphy escapes! The bell rings.

Round 3 – Fun, fun fight here. Final round. Leg kick by Santos. One, two connects for Murphy. Again! Good shots by Murphy. Santos closes the distance and gets the takedown. Santos almost takes the back, but Murphy scrambles and gets back to his feet. Santos now presses Murphy against the cage. Murphy reverses position, then breaks away. Three minutes left. Hard leg kick by Murphy. A much better round striking wise for Murphy. Big right by Murphy. Santos with a left. Another right by Murphy. Santos is slowing down. Leg kick by Santos. Santos pressuring and walking down Murphy. One minute left. Santos goes for the takedown, lifts Murphy and slams him on the canvas. Santos working from guard. Murphy crawls back to the cage and uses it to get up. Head kick by Santos. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Murphy. Overall 29-28, Santos.

Result : Lerone Murphy def. Gabriel Santos via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28). Photos : Lerone Murphy def. Gabriel Santos at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Lerone Murphy (12-0-1 MMA, 4-0-1 UFC), Gabriel Santos (10-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) Division : Featherweight Broadcast : ESPN+ Referee : Rich Mitchell Judging : Vito Paolillo, Clemens Werner 29-28. Mark Collett 28-29.

Jafel Filho vs. Muhammad Mokaev

Round 1 – They touch gloves and here we go! Big body kick by Mokaev. Filho pressing Mokaev here. Good leg kick by Filho. Again. Mokaev with his own leg kick. Leg kick by Mokaev. Mokaev shoots and Filho goes for the guillotine choke. Mokaev slips out and now he’s on top. Mokaev partially takes the back, as Filho connects his back against the cage. Now Mokaev has full back control. Mokaev trying to go for the rear-naked choke. Little damage done. Filho gets out and recovers guard. Two minutes left. Good control but very little damage from Mokaev. Now Mokaev is opening up with shots. One minute left. Mokaev stands up and now landing leg kicks on a downed Filho. Mokaev gets back in the guard of Filho. He lands some shots. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Mokaev.

Round 2 – Both guys trade leg kicks. Filho pressing Mokaev like round, but being a bit more tentative. Good leg kick by Filho. Not much going on, crowd getting a bit upset. Three minutes left. Another leg kick by Filho. Both guys swinging but not really connecting here. Two minutes left. Mokaev goes for the takedown, fails, but presses Filho against the cage. Filho defends well and breaks free. Another takedown by Mokaev, but this time he gets it. Mokaev on top control inside Filho’s guard. Both guys landing shots while on bottom. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie score the round 10-9, Filho.

Round 3 – Mokaev immediately shoots at the start, doesn’t get the takedown, but presses Filho against the cage. Mokaev now gets the takedown and advances to back mount. Mokaev looking for the rear-naked choke. Filho defending well. Filho escapes and they’re back on the feet. Mokaev shoots again, they scramble, and now Mokaev has Filho against the cage. Mokaev gets the takedown, but gets caught in a leg lock. It’s tight! Mokaev’s knee is hyperextending! And Mokaev gets out! He’s on top of Filho. Mokaev seems to be in pain from the leg lock. Filho gets up, but he’s being controlled against the cage. Mokaev gets the back now and attacks with the rear-naked choke. There’s the tap!

Result : Muhammad Mokaev def. Jafel Filho via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 3, 4:32. Recap : Muhammad Mokaev injures leg, scores last-minute submission of Jafel Filho Photos : Muhammad Mokaev def. Jafel Filho at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Muhammad Mokaev (9-0 MMA, 4-0 UFC), Jafel Filho (14-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) Division : Flyweight Broadcast : ESPNews Referee : Herb Dean

Yanal Ashmoz vs. Sam Patterson

Round 1 – Big height difference here between Ashmoz and Paterson. Patterson with a couple of leg kicks. Ashmoz lands one of his own. Oh! Ashmoz floors Paterson with a huge right hand. Ashmoz jumps on him. Non-stop ground-and-pound. It’s over! Wow!

Result : Yanal Ashmoz def. Sam Patterson via KO (punches) – Round 1, 1:15. Recap : Yanal Ashmoz mid-air punch leads to woozy Sam Patterson grappling referee Marc Goddard Photos : Yanal Ashmoz def. Sam Patterson at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Yanal Ashmoz (7-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC), Sam Patterson (10-2-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) Division : Lightweight Broadcast : ESPNews Referee : Marc Goddard

Chris Duncan vs. Omar Morales

Round 1 – Hard leg kick by Morales. Now one by Duncan. Good body kick and then a left hand by Morales. Another hard kick by Morales. So far Morales the much busier fighter. Morales catches a leg kick and makes Duncan lose his balance. Morales lets him back up. Another leg kick by Morales. Big right hand by Duncan. Morales with two right hands. Big leg kick by Morales. Both guys very cautious here. Leg kick by Duncan. Oh! Clean one, two wobbles Duncan. He’s hurt. Now Duncan wobbles Morales. Duncan shoots for the takedown in the final seconds. He doesn’t get it and Morales escapes the clinch just as the bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Morales.

Round 2 – Duncan immediately goes for a takedown and presses Morales against the cage. He doesn’t get the takedown, but while standing, he’s gota  grip around the back of Morales. Not much damage from Duncan, buthe still controls Morales against the cage. Knees to the legs from Duncan. Morales hits the switch and escapes. Three minutes left. Good one, two by Morales. Big right hand walks back Duncan. Morales is fining his range. Hard leg kick by Morales. Duncan presses Morales against the cage. He looks for a takedown. Morales defending well, but still pinned. One minute left. Morales breaks away and back to striking. Duncan close the distance again and presses Morales against the cage. Morales breaks free. Morales lands a hard right hand before the bell rings.

Round 3 – Duncan connects with a right to start the round. One, two by Morales. A leg kick by Morales drops Duncan. He quickly gets up and presses Morales against the cage. Duncan head-snaps Morales and controls him by the cage. Duncan keeping control here. Three minutes left. Duncan not doing much damage, but controlling from top turtle position. Two minutes left. Not much going on. Duncan pressing Morales against the cage. One minute left. Crowd is complaining. Morales gets back to his feet. Big uppercut by Morales! Leg kick by Morales. Duncan shoots and presses Morales against the cage. He scores the takedown and the bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Duncan. Overall 29-28, Morales.

Result : Chris Duncan def. Omar Morales via split decision (29-28, 27-30, 29-28) Photos : Chris Duncan def. Omar Morales at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Chris Duncan (10-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC), Omar Morales (11-4 MMA, 3-4 UFC) Division : Lightweight Broadcast : ESPNews Referee : Lukasz Bosacki Judging : Ben Cartlidge, Vito Paolillo 29-28. Paul Sutherland 30-27.

Makwan Amirkhani vs. Jack Shore

Round 1 – Good one, two by Shore as he closes the distance and presses Amirkhani against the cage. Amirkhani reverses the position and he is now pressing. Amirkhani looking for the takedown, but unable to. Good knees from clinch by Amirkhani. Shore reverses the position, and he now presses Amirkhani against the cage. Three minutes left. Stiff jab by Amirkhani. Amirkhani shoots and takes down Shore in the middle of the octagon. Shore recovers guard, he’s looking for submissions. Two minutes left. Amirkhani advances to half guard. Shore recovers guard once again. Pure control here by Amirkhani, but no damage. The bell rings and Amirkhani finishes on top.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Amirkhani.

Round 2 – Left hand and then a head kick connects for Shore. Amirkhani shoots, but comes up short in his takedown attempt. Back to the feet. Good body kick by Shore. They clinch and Amirkhani presses Shore against the cage. Shore breaks free. Shore with a head kick. Amirkhani seems stunned. Amirkhani shoots for a takedown, Shore stuffs it. Back to the feet. Amirkhani seems to be slowing down. Clean one, two by Shore. Right hand by Amirkhani. Uppercut by Shore. Amirkhani is fading. One, two connects for Shore. He can’t miss. Two minutes left. Amirkhani is battered. Amirkhani shoots and fails in a takedown. Shore now takes down Amirkhani. Shore advances to mount. One minute left. Shore locks up the arm triangle! He takes the back and switches to a rear-naked choke. And there’s the tap!

Result : Jack Shore def. Makwan Amirkhani via submission (rear-naked choke) – Round 2, 4:27. Recap : Jack Shore submits Makwan Amirkhani in Round 2 to win featherweight debut Photos : Jack Shore def. Makwan Amirkhani at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Jack Shore (17-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC), Makwan Amirkhani (17-9 MMA, 7-7 UFC) Division : Featherweight Broadcast : ESPNews Referee : Rich Mitchell

Roman Dolidze vs. Marvin Vettori

Round 1 – Here we go! Good leg kicks by Vettori. Dolidze connects with a big left! Vettori is hurt! Dolidze walking him down, but it seems he’s recovered. Dolidze brings back down his output. One, two connects for Vettori. Leg kicks by Vettori are adding up. Good left hand by Vettori. Dolidze is now starting to attack with leg kicks. Two minutes left. Another hard leg kick by Vettori. An accidental headbutt from Dolidze halts the fight. Fight resumes a few seconds after. Dolidze back to pressuring Vettori. Vettori’s nose is already bleeding. Oh! Three hard right hands connect for Dolidze. Vettori is stunned and backing up. Another one. Good left by Vettori. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Dolidze.

Round 2 – A couple of good leg kicks land by Vettori. So far, they don’t seem to affect Dolidze. More kicks by Vettori. One, two by Vettori. Dolidze doesn’t seem to be fazed by Vettori’s power. Good jab by Vettori. Another leg kick by Vettori. He’s landed 22 leg kicks so far. Jabs connect for Vettori. Dolidze is not throwing much in this round. More leg kicks by Vettori. One minute left. The pace here is steady but slow. Dolidze showing swelling below his left eye. A couple of leg kicks connect by Vettori. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Vettori.

Round 3 – It looks like it’s a one-round fight now, likely tied up. Good jabs by Vettori, as Dolidze looks to press him. So far, Dolidze is doing the pressing and has shown to have the bigger shots, but his output and accuracy is low. Vettori is beating Dolidze by volume. Three leg kicks for Vettori connect. Good jabs by Vettori. Nice right hook by Vettori. Three minutes left. Dolidze connects with a solid left hook. Hard leg kick by Vettori. Jab by Dolidze. It seems Dolidze is upping the attacks. Two minutes left. Heavy leg kick by Vettori. Oh! Both guys connect clean with hooks. Neither wobbled. One, two by Vettori. Another leg kick by Vettori. Dolidze’s left leg is red and seems to be affecting him now. Vettori connects  with a hard left before the bell.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Vettori. Overall 29-28, Vettori.

Result : Marvin Vettori def. Roman Dolidze via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27). Recap : Marvin Vettori earns unanimous decision nod over Roman Dolidze in main card opener Photos : Marvin Vettori def. Roman Dolidze at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Marvin Vettori (19-5-1 MMA, 9-4-1 UFC), Roman Dolidze (12-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) Division : Middleweight Broadcast : Pay-per-view Referee : Marc Goddard Judging : Ben Cartlidge, David Lethaby 29-28. Paul Sutherland 30-27.

Jennifer Maia vs. Casey O'Neill

Round 1 – Good left hook by Maia. O’Neill comes out with tons of pressure. These two trading plenty here, both connecting. Good left hook by O’Neill. Surprisingly, Maia is holding her own on the feet here. Maia is staying mobile on the outside, as O’Neill chases. Good jab by O’Neill. High paced fight so far. Maia catches a kick, tries a takedown, but doesn’t get it. O’Neill back at pressing Maia. Good one, two by O’Neill. Maia with a good knee to the body. Leg kick by Maia. Another one. Both ladies connecting here. Close round. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Maia.

Round 2 – O’Neill with a leg kick. So far, Maia seems to be out striking O’Neill here. Oh! Big right hand followed by a stiff jab from Maia. O’Neill having a tough time connecting here. Good right by Maia. She’s connecting often, and O’Neill is having a tough time figuring her out. O’Neill just chasing now. Three minutes left. Front kick connects for Maia. Maia’s movement giving O’Neill all kind of trouble. O’Neill tries to pin Maia against the cage, and she gets reversed and pressed. Maia lets her loose and they’re back striking. Big output difference between the two. Good jab by Maia. Another one. The bell rings.

Round 3 – O’Neill is back to chasing, while Maia looks to counter and stay mobile on the outside. O’Neill closes the distance and clinches, but gets reversed and pressed against the cage by Maia. Maia lets her loose. O’Neill’s nose showing some damage. Good right hand by O’Neill. Three minutes left. Solid knee to the face connects for Maia. Clean right by Maia. O’Neill with a stiff jab. O’Neill is bleeding from her nose. Two minutes left. Right hand connects for Maia. O’Neill with a clean left hand. O’Neill upping the attack here. Maia shoots for a takedown and presses O’Neill against the cage. She’s fighting hard for the takedown, but fails. O’Neill with a big right hand backs up Maia. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Maia. Overall 30-27, Maia.

Result : Jennifer Maia def. Casey O’Neill via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) Recap : Jennifer Maia hands Casey O’Neill first career loss in technical showcase Photos : Jennifer Maia def. Casey O’Neill at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Jennifer Maia (21-9-1 MMA, 6-5 UFC), Casey O’Neill (9-1 MMA, 4-1 UFC) Division : Women’s flyweight Broadcast : Pay-per-view Referee : Herb Dean Judging : Chris Lee, David Lethaby 29-28. Vito Paolillo 30-27.

Bryan Barberena vs. Gunnar Nelson

Round 1 – Nelson comes out pressuring Barberena. They trade leg kicks. Both very tentative so far. One, two for Barberena. Right hand by Nelson then he closes the distance and pins Barberena against the cage. Nelson controlling. Three minutes left. Nelson trying to get a trip, but Barberena defending well so far. Nelson swicthes to a single, lifts Barberena, and gets the takedown. Nelson working from half guard. Good elbows from Nelson on top. Nelson moves to mount now. Another elbow. Nelson goes for the armbar with 20 seconds left. And he gets the tap just as the 10-second clap goes off! Nice submission win.

Result : Gunnar Nelson def. Bryan Barberena via submission (armbar) – Round 1, 4:51. Recap : Gunnar Nelson dominates on the mat, taps Bryan Barberena with armbar late in Round 1 Photos : Gunnar Nelson def. Bryan Barberena at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Gunnar Nelson (19-5-1 MMA, 10-5 UFC), Bryan Barberena (18-10 MMA, 9-8 UFC) Division : Welterweight Broadcast : Pay-per-view Referee : Rich Mitchell

Rafael Fiziev vs. Justin Gaethje

Round 1 – Hard leg kick buckles Fiziev. One minute has gone by. No strikes here. Fiziev with a body kick. Gaethje eats it well. Left hook cracks Gaethje. Another one. Fiziev is aggressive. Big body kick by Fiziev. These two are swinging hard. A couple of hooks from Fiziev stuns Gaethje. Gaethje having a tough time landing. One minute left. Gaethje attempts a takedown, fails, but immediately connects with a right hook. Big knee by Fiziev! Gaethje responds with hard hooks but Fiziev defends and blocks well. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Fiziev.

Round 2 – This is heating up! Huge body kick by Fiziev. Big left hook by Fiziev and Gaethje answers with a straight right. The fight is paused. Fiziev got poked in the eye accidentally. Fight resumes. Leg kick by Fiziev. Fiziev keeps wiping his eye. It seems to be bothering him. Oh! Hard hooks connect for Gaethje. Fiziev with a leg kick. Big right hook lands for Gaethje after the two exchange. Fiziev doing most of the pressing. Fiziev is cut under both eyes. Good hooks by Fiziev! One minute left. Big left hand by Gaethje.The bell rings. Much better round for Gaethje.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Gaethje.

Round 3 – OH! Big right hook by Fiziev stuns Gaethje. Fiziev clinches him and lands two knees to the body. They break away and back to striking range. Body kick by Fiziev. Fiziev clinches again and lands knees to the body. Good couple of hooks by Gaethje. Gaethje attempts a takedown, but fails. Good jabs by Gaethje. Fiziev’s right eye is bleeding a lot. More jabs by Gaethje. Big right hand by Gaethje. What a fight. Fiziev still marching down Gaethje. Nasty leg kick by Fiziev. Anothet jab by Gaethje. He’s having plenty of success with it. Uppercut by Gaethje. Fiziev seems to be slowing down. These two trading bombs! Thirty seconds. Nasty uppercut by Gaethje. And Gaethje gets a takedown! The bell rings. Wild fight.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Gaethje. Overall 29-28, Gaethje.

Result : Justin Gaethje def. Rafael Fiziev via majority decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-28) Recap : Justin Gaethje bloodies Rafael Fiziev, edges out majority decision Photos : Justin Gaethje def. Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Justin Gaethje (24-4 MMA, 7-4 UFC), Rafael Fiziev (12-2 MMA, 6-2 UFC) Division : Lightweight Broadcast : Pay-per-view Referee : Marc Goddard Judging : Mark Collet, Clemens Werner 29-28, Paul Sutherland 28-28.

Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman

Round 1 – Hard leg kick by Edwards in the first strike landed of the fight. Left handsconnects for Edwards, as Usman tried to go for a takedown. Jab by Usman. Hard leg kick by Edwards. Usman is very hesitant here. Usman is pressuring, but not really landing. Another hard leg kick by Edwards. Two minutes left. Big body kick by Edwards! Another one! More leg kicks by Edwards. Usman closes the distance and pins Edwards against the cage. One minute left. Edwards escapes, but there might’ve been a glove grab. Referee halts the fight and warns Edwards. No point taken. Another leg kick for Edwards. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Edwards.

Round 2 – Big leg kick by Edwards. Low blow from Edwards halts the fight, but almost immediately resumes. Another leg kick by Edwards. Usman is walking down Edwards, but he’s got zero offense at the moment. Edwards connects a knee and wobbles Usman! Usman recovers quickly. Three minutes left. Good right hand by Usman. Usman gets a takedown! Edwards back up, but he eats a few shots. Edwards shoots for a takedown, gets stuffed by Usman. Edwards gets back up. Two minutes left. Straight left by Edwards. Usman stalks Edwards until the bell.

Round 3 – Another leg kick by Edwards. He’s adding those up. Another one. Usman shoots for the single leg takedown and gets it. He’s working from half guard. Four minutes left. Edwards gets back up. Usman tries to mat return him and Edwards does a clear fence grab. The referee pauses the fight and takes a point away. The fight resumes standing. A couple of leg kicks land for Edwards. A stiff jab connects for Usman. And a right hand too. Big leg kick by Edwards. A low blow lands on Usman. Clear as day on the replay. Fight resumes. Big knee lands for Edwards. Leg kicks land for Usman now. Good jab by Usman. Big right hand by Usman. Edwards is spamming the leg kicks now, connects with four or five. Good elbow by Usman. Usman now pins Edwards against the cage. Edwards breaks free and bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-8, Usman.

Round 4 – Very, very interesting fight. Big leg kick by Edwards. Usman is walking down Edwards. That seems to be the entire dynamic here. They trade front kicks. Both throw kicks and Usman falls to the ground. Edwards almost gets on top, but Usman scrambles out, and they’re back on the feet. Another leg kick by Edwards. Jab to the body by Usman. Right hand lands by Usman. Another leg kick by Edwards. Two minutes left. Stiff jab by Usman. Usman presses Edwards and gets the takedown. Edwards immediately back up. Good left hook by Edwards! Usman shoots again and presses Edwards against the cage. Edwards defends the takedown and gets loose. Usman tried to go for a takedown again, but bell rings.

Round 5 – Close, close fight. Head kick by Edwards almost lands! Usman with a hard right hand and then closes the distance and pins Edwards against the cage. Edwards breaks free. Four minutes left. Body shot by Edwards. Knee to the head by Edwards! Usman still walking down Edwards, non-stop. Usman shoots and pins Edwards against the cage. Edwards breaks free. Leg kick by Edwards. Jab by Edwards. Half-way through the round. Big leg kick buckles Usman. Knee by Edwards! Usman again pins Edwards against the cage, but Edwards breaks free almost immediately. Again, but this time Usman gets the takedown. Edwards is back up and the crowd goes wild! Good combo by Edwards. Usman again pins Edwards against the cage. Usman controls for a bit, but Edwards eventually gets loose. The bell rings.

MMA Junkie scores the round 10-9, Edwards. Overall 48-46, Edwards.

Result : Leon Edwards def. Kamaru Usman via majority decision (48-46, 48-46, 47-47) Recap : Leon Edwards overcomes point deduction, tops Kamaru Usman in trilogy rubber match Photos : Leon Edwards def. Kamaru Usman at UFC 286: Best photos Records : Leon Edwards (21-3 MMA, 13-2 UFC), Kamaru Usman (20-3 MMA, 15-2 UFC) Division : Welterweight Broadcast : Pay-per-view Referee : Herb Dean Judging : Ben Cartlidge, Chris Lee 48-46. David Lethaby 47-47. 

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Referees, judges assigned for UFC 296 title fights

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The referees and judges for UFC 296 ’s two title fights have been assigned by the Nevada Athletic Commission.

In the main event, referee Herb Dean will serve as the third man in the octagon when Leon Edwards defends his welterweight title against Colby Covington . It will be the second consecutive fight where Dean has refereed a title fight for Edwards, as he was also in the cage on the night the reigning UFC welterweight king defended his belt against Kamaru Usman back in March in Edwards’ native England.

The judges scoring UFC 296’s main event will be Sal D’amato, Derek Cleary, and Chris Lee.

As for the co-main event, where Alexandre Pantoja takes on Brandon Royval in a rematch for the UFC flyweight title, Marc Goddard will serve as the referee for the matchup.

Judges scoring the fight will be Ron McCarthy, Junichiro Kamijo, and Eric Colon.

The remainder of the referee and judges assignments for UFC 296 will be handed out on fight night on Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

UFC 296 caps off the year for the promotion, with the main card kicking off on ESPN+ pay-per-view at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday and the prelims set to begin at 6 p.m. ET from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

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