Moreno Dominates Albazi in Unanimous Decision Victory
Deiveson Figueiredo's former rival, Alexandre Pantoja, earned a dominant unanimous decision victory over Amir Albazi at UFC 289. The highly anticipated flyweight bout took place on June 10, 2023, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada.
A Dominant Performance:
From the opening bell, Pantoja showcased his superior grappling skills, taking Albazi down repeatedly throughout the fight. He controlled the pace, landing significant strikes and showcasing his impressive submission defense. Albazi, known for his aggressive striking style, struggled to find his rhythm against Pantoja's relentless pressure.
Moreno's Path to Title Contention:
This victory solidifies Pantoja's position as a top contender in the flyweight division. With his current momentum, he's now in line for a potential title shot, likely against the current champion, Brandon Moreno. The two fighters have a storied history, with Moreno winning their first two encounters before Pantoja secured a decisive victory in their third bout.
A Look Back at Their Previous Encounters:
The rivalry between Moreno and Pantoja is one of the most exciting in the flyweight division. Their first encounter at UFC Fight Night 147 saw Moreno emerge victorious via a unanimous decision. Their rematch at UFC 255 resulted in another dominant performance by Moreno, securing another unanimous decision win. However, at UFC Fight Night 209, Pantoja turned the tables, earning a technical knockout victory in the third round.
What's Next for Pantoja and Moreno?
With both fighters now on a winning streak, their fourth encounter seems inevitable. The UFC is likely to schedule this highly anticipated rematch soon, likely for the flyweight title. This bout promises to be an exciting clash of styles, with both fighters hungry to prove their dominance.
A New Era for Flyweight?
The victory of Pantoja signals a potential shift in the flyweight landscape. With the retirement of Henry Cejudo, the division is wide open for new contenders to emerge. The upcoming rematch between Pantoja and Moreno has the potential to define the next era of the flyweight division.
Conclusion:
Alexandre Pantoja's dominant victory over Amir Albazi at UFC 289 was a statement performance. He proved his credentials as a top contender and set the stage for a thrilling rematch against Brandon Moreno. This upcoming title fight promises to be a highlight of the year, with both fighters aiming for flyweight supremacy.