Moreno vs. Albazi: UFC Edmonton Delivers Thrilling Main Event
The UFC touched down in Edmonton, Canada, on June 18th, 2023, for a night of high-octane action. The main event pitted former flyweight title challenger Brandon Moreno against surging contender Manel Kape "The Assassin" Albazi. This was a clash of styles, with Moreno's relentless pressure and grappling expertise facing off against Albazi's lightning-fast striking and explosive power.
A Battle of Styles: Moreno vs. Albazi
The fight started with Moreno taking center stage, pressing forward with relentless aggression. Albazi, known for his speed and accuracy, countered with powerful kicks and punches, testing Moreno's durability.
The first round saw a fierce exchange of strikes, with both fighters landing clean shots. Moreno attempted a takedown, but Albazi defended well, keeping the fight standing. Albazi's speed and agility allowed him to land a series of kicks and punches, showcasing his dynamic striking arsenal.
Round two continued the high-energy pace, with both fighters exchanging blows. Albazi landed a stinging combination that briefly rocked Moreno, but Moreno's resilience and heart were evident as he battled back.
The third round proved to be the turning point. Albazi's energy seemed to wane, allowing Moreno to take control. Moreno used his grappling skills to secure a takedown and control Albazi on the ground. The round ended with Moreno delivering ground and pound, giving him a clear edge going into the final frame.
Round four saw both fighters feeling the effects of the relentless pace. Moreno continued to pressure Albazi, pushing him against the cage and landing a series of punches. Albazi's strikes were less frequent and less impactful as the round progressed.
Round five saw Moreno capitalize on his momentum, dominating Albazi with his grappling and ground and pound. Albazi's energy had completely dissipated, and Moreno was able to control the fight.
The Verdict: Moreno Wins via Unanimous Decision
The judges saw the fight decisively in favor of Brandon Moreno, awarding him the victory via unanimous decision. This victory solidified Moreno's position as a top contender in the flyweight division, while Albazi will be looking to bounce back from this setback.
UFC Edmonton: A Night of Action
The main event was not the only highlight of the night. Other notable performances included:
- Aleksei Oleinik securing a submission victory over Jake Collier with a brutal armbar.
- Marc Diakiese earning a decisive decision win over Joaquim Silva in a back-and-forth slugfest.
- Kyle Nelson securing a knockout victory over Bryan Barberena in the second round.
UFC Edmonton was a thrilling night of action, showcasing the incredible talent within the flyweight division and proving that the UFC continues to deliver high-level fights for fans around the world.