Gaziev entered the fight hoping to turn around his recent fortunes but faced a relentless opponent. The match was characterized by heavy exchanges and fierce competition, described as a back-and-forth battle throughout.

Key fight statistics:

• Brando Pericic improved his MMA record to 7-1 and his UFC record to 3-0.
• Shamil Gaziev’s MMA record now stands at 14-2, with a UFC record of 3-2.
• This was Gaziev’s second consecutive knockout loss.

The bout showcased Pericic’s striking prowess, as he landed heavy kicks and punches consistently. Observers noted that the Australian contender’s performance solidified his position as a formidable force in the heavyweight rankings.

The post Shamil Gaziev Falls to Brando Pericic in Perth Knockout appeared first on News Canada.

Sutherland won by unanimous decision with scorecards reading 30-26. Throughout the match, he showcased superior grappling skills—scoring multiple takedowns and controlling the fight on the ground. It was a stark contrast to Tuivasa’s previous performance against Derrick Lewis, which marked his last victory back in February 2022.

Before this latest defeat, Tuivasa had already endured six consecutive losses. This streak has not only impacted his ranking but also raised eyebrows regarding how long he can remain competitive in the heavyweight division. Remarkably, Sutherland entered this fight with a record of 0-2 in the UFC and was unranked.

Tuivasa expressed disappointment after the fight, stating, “SORRY I tried I felt good I put in the work didn’t get result. I feel like a s— c— let my fans down again. Back to the drawing board for me. C— of a sport.” Yet, he remains resolute, declaring, “BUT I WILL NEVER GIVE UP IM FROM WESTERN SYDNEY YOU GOTTA PUT ME OUT FOR ME TO GIVE UP.” His resilience is commendable, but it begs the question: how much longer can he continue this path?

Looking ahead, observers are left pondering what comes next for Tuivasa. Will he be given another opportunity to redeem himself or face a reevaluation of his position within the organization? Meanwhile, Sutherland’s victory has ignited his own ambitions; he stated post-fight, “Get me anybody, I’ll fight them all.”

As it stands, Tuivasa’s current MMA record is 14 wins and 9 losses—a far cry from when he was once ranked No. 3 in the heavyweight division. This downward trajectory raises significant concerns about whether he can reclaim his former status or if a change is necessary.

The post Tai Tuivasa Faces Uncertain Future After Seventh Loss appeared first on News Canada.

Della Maddalena entered the weekend officially as the No. 1 contender at welterweight, riding an impressive 18-fight winning streak. However, Prates’s performance shattered that streak—he became the first fighter to stop Della Maddalena at the UFC level.

Prates’s journey has been nothing short of impressive. He has won all seven of his UFC bouts by knockout or TKO, and this latest victory marks his third first-round KO/TKO win in just over eight months. His previous triumph was against former champion Leon Edwards, further solidifying his reputation.

Key statistics:

• Prates improved his UFC record to 7-1, with all victories by knockout or TKO.
• Della Maddalena had not fought in his home country for three years prior to this event.
• This was the second UFC event held in Australia in 2026.
• Prates’s only loss was a decision to Ian Machado Garry twelve months ago.

After the fight, Prates confidently dubbed himself the new No. 1 contender at 170 pounds. Observers noted that his back-to-back stoppage wins over former champions have sent a clear message throughout the division—he is a legitimate threat to anyone holding the title.

As for Della Maddalena, this loss will undoubtedly prompt some soul-searching. His recent defeat raises questions about his future trajectory in the welterweight ranks. Officials have yet to confirm what this means for him moving forward.

Looking ahead, Carlos Prates is expected to rise significantly in the welterweight rankings following this decisive victory. The implications of such a win could lead to an imminent title shot—one that many fans and analysts are now eagerly anticipating.

The post Carlos Prates: The New Threat in the Welterweight Division appeared first on News Canada.