Moreno Dominates Albazi, Secures Unanimous Decision Victory in Thrilling Fight
Las Vegas, NV - Alexa Grasso may have stolen the show with a stunning knockout victory over Valentina Shevchenko, but Brandon Moreno delivered a dominant performance of his own, securing a unanimous decision victory over Askar Askarov in a highly anticipated flyweight clash at UFC 289.
The fight, a rematch of their epic 2020 encounter that ended in a controversial draw, was expected to be a close contest. However, Moreno quickly asserted his dominance, showcasing a well-rounded arsenal of strikes and grappling.
Moreno's Early Dominance and the Rise of Askarov
From the opening bell, Moreno controlled the pace, landing crisp combinations and consistently keeping Askarov on the defensive. He utilized his superior reach to effectively keep Askarov at bay, utilizing a relentless pressure that forced Askarov to fight backward for much of the fight.
While Askarov showed flashes of brilliance, Moreno's constant pressure and relentless attacks proved too much for the Russian fighter to overcome. Moreno's ability to seamlessly transition between striking and grappling, combined with his relentless pressure, proved to be the key to victory.
A Dominant Third Round and Unanimous Decision
The third round saw Moreno truly take control, landing a series of thunderous leg kicks that visibly hurt Askarov. Moreno continued to dictate the pace and control the center of the Octagon, leaving Askarov with little room to operate.
The judges ultimately agreed with the crowd's assessment, awarding Moreno the victory by unanimous decision, securing a scorecard of 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28.
Moreno's Championship Ambitions and Future Prospects
With this victory, Moreno reasserted himself as a top contender in the flyweight division and solidified his place as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC. He remains a serious threat to the division's reigning champion, Alexandre Pantoja, who is set to defend his title against Manel Kape in the coming months.
Moreno's performance showcased his exceptional skillset and his unwavering determination. The dominant victory over Askarov has undoubtedly put him back in the championship picture, and a rematch with Pantoja is likely on the horizon.
A Night of Thrilling Action at UFC 289
While Moreno's performance may have flown under the radar due to Grasso's spectacular knockout, it was nonetheless a significant victory that displayed his immense talent and his unwavering commitment to achieving his ultimate goal – reclaiming the flyweight championship.
As he continues to climb the ranks of the UFC, Moreno's journey is sure to be filled with thrilling battles and unforgettable moments. His relentless pursuit of excellence is a testament to his dedication and unwavering focus, making him a force to be reckoned with in the flyweight division.