The excitement was palpable at the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, as UFC 302 unfurled a series of electrifying matches. Headlined by a thrilling showdown between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier for the UFC Lightweight Championship, the event showcased a blend of technique, strength, and tactical prowess across multiple weight classes. Here's a detailed breakdown of each bout, capturing the essence of the night's action.
Main Event: UFC Lightweight Championship | 155 lbs
Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier
In an intense and strategic battle, Islam Makhachev secured a victory over Dustin Poirier through a submission via D'arce Choke at 2:42 in the fifth round. This fight was a testament to Makhachev's grappling skills and his ability to control the pace and position throughout the contest.
Co-Main Event: Middleweight | 185 lbs
Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa
Sean Strickland edged out Paulo Costa by split decision in a closely contested match that kept the fans on their toes. Both fighters exchanged significant blows, but Strickland’s tactical execution and timing helped him secure the win.
Main Card
Kevin Holland made quick work of Michał Oleksiejczuk, winning via a technical submission from an armbar just 1:34 into the first round. Holland's agility and submission expertise were on full display, ending the fight impressively early.
Randy Brown won against Elizeu Zaleski through unanimous decision, showcasing a dominant performance that highlighted his striking superiority and defensive skills.
Preliminary Card
Niko Price defeated Alex Morono by unanimous decision in a fight where his striking and control dictated the pace. Price’s ability to outmaneuver Morono played a crucial role in his victory.
Roman Kopylov triumphed over César Almeida by split decision in a tightly contested bout that showcased both fighters’ determination and skill in striking.
Jailton Almeida achieved a submission victory over Alexandr Romanov with a Rear Naked Choke at 2:27 of the first round, demonstrating superior grappling prowess and strength.
Grant Dawson secured a unanimous decision win against Joe Solecki. Dawson’s control over the grappling exchanges and pace management were decisive.
Jake Matthews won against Phil Rowe by unanimous decision, with superior technique and effective striking throughout the fight.
Bassil Hafez defeated Mickey Gall by unanimous decision. Hafez’s striking and defensive maneuvers outmatched Gall, leading to a clear points victory.
Ailin Perez emerged victorious over Joselyne Edwards by unanimous decision. Perez’s aggressive approach and striking accuracy were key factors in her win.
André Lima claimed a split decision victory over Mitch Raposo in a closely fought battle that saw both fighters exchange rapid strikes and tactical maneuvers.
UFC 302 delivered an exhilarating mix of knockouts, technical submissions, and strategic battles that kept the audience engaged from start to finish. Each fighter brought their best to the octagon, contributing to a memorable night of mixed martial arts at the Prudential Center. As champions were crowned and contenders emerged, UFC 302 solidified its place as a pivotal event in the landscape of MMA.
MAIN EVENT | UFC LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP | 155 LBS
Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier
Makhachev defeats Poirier via Submission, D'arce Choke at 2:42 Round 5 of 5
CO-MAIN EVENT | MIDDLEWEIGHT · 185 LBS | PRO MMA
Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa
Strickland defeats Costa via split decision
MAIN CARD | MIDDLEWEIGHT · 185 LBS | PRO MMA
Kevin Holland vs. Michał Oleksiejczuk
Holland defeats Oleksiejczuk via Submission, Technical (armbar) at 1:34 Round 1 of 3
PRELIMINARY CARD | WELTERWEIGHT · 170 LBS | PRO MMA
Niko Price vs. Alex Morono
Price defeats Morono via unanimous decision
MAIN CARD | WELTERWEIGHT · 170 LBS | PRO MMA
Randy Brown vs. Elizeu Zaleski
Brown defeats Zaleski via unanimous decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | MIDDLEWEIGHT · 185 LBS | PRO MMA
Roman Kopylov vs. César Almeida
Kopylov defeats Almeida via Split Decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | HEAVYWEIGHT · 265 LBS | PRO MMA
Jailton Almeida vs. Alexandr Romanov
Almeida defeats Romanov via Submission, Rear Naked Choke at 2:27 Round 1 of 3
PRELIMINARY CARD | LIGHTWEIGHT · 155 LBS | PRO MMA
Grant Dawson vs. Joe Solecki
Dawson defeats Solecki via unanimous decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | WELTERWEIGHT · 170 LBS | PRO MMA
Phil Rowe vs. Jake Matthews
Matthews defeats Rowe via unanimous decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | WELTERWEIGHT · 170 LBS | PRO MMA
Mickey Gall vs. Bassil Hafez
Hafez defeats Gall via unanimous decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | BANTAMWEIGHT · 135 LBS | PRO MMA
Joselyne Edwards vs. Ailin Perez
Perez defeats Edwards via unanimous decision
PRELIMINARY CARD | FLYWEIGHT · 125 LBS | PRO MMA
André Lima vs. Mitch Raposo