The UFC Fight Night features an eagerly anticipated bantamweight clash between Merab Dvalishvili and Henry Cejudo.
Merab Dvalishvili Sends Henry Cejudo Into Retirement
Dvalishvili, known as “The Machine,” comes into this fight with a record of 16-4-0. He is currently on a 9 fight win streak, showcasing his relentless pace, cardio and wrestling. His most notable wins are unanimous decision victories over Jose Aldo and Petr Yan. His fighting style is marked by orthodox stance, a reach of 68 inches, and he averages 4.46 significant strikes per minute with a 41% striking accuracy. Moreover, Dvalishvili is a formidable grappler, averaging 6.55 takedowns every 15 minutes with a 36% takedown accuracy.
Henry Cejudo
Cejudo on the other hand, is a former bantamweight and flyweight champion with a record of 16-3. Cejudo returned from retirement aiming to reclaim his title but faced a setback with a split decision loss against Aljamain Sterling. Despite this, Cejudo’s experience and skill set make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. He fights from an orthodox stance as well, with a 64-inch reach and averages 3.93 significant strikes per minute at a 47% accuracy. His wrestling background is highlighted by his 34% takedown accuracy and a strong takedown defence at 83%.
This matchup poses a fascinating similarity in styles and strengths. Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure and grappling against Cejudo’s coveted Olympic wrestling experience. Both fighters have prepared intensively for this bout, with Dvalishvili looking to smother Cejudo and spend a lot of time in the clinch, attempting to drag him down. For Cejudo, this bout could be his last, with him being 37 years old and a loss to Merab will put him right back at the bottom of the pile at bantamweight.
The fight promises to be a tactical and physical battle, with both athletes having the capabilities to secure a win. Dvalishvili’s recent performances and his ability to maintain a high pace could be key, but Cejudo’s experience in big fights should not be underestimated.
What Unfolded at UFC 298
The fight starts with both men feeling one another out, and within several minutes Henry Cejudo finds a home for a shot that stumbles Merab briefly. Respecting the power, it didn’t take Merab long until he shot for a takedown. However, Henry was able to get back to his feet instantly and then find success of his own on top after a scramble between the pair.
Cejudo filled with confidence and moving well, but Merab starting to find a home for his hands, eventually landing a powerful combination that caught the former two-weight world champions attention. The momentum appeared to have shifted with Merab now finding takedowns at will, but again, Cejudo manages to find his way to his feet. After a tough first-round, Merab ends the second squeezing the neck of Henry while talking to Mark Zuckerburg in the crowd. A strong second round puts Merab in poll position leading into the final round.
Cejudo’s left arm seems to be comprised, and his output his visually slowed down drastically since the first. Merab mauled the former Olympian in the third-round and had his way wherever the fight went, sending Cejudo into retirement once again.
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
