UFC Night Results: Main Card Cannonier vs Borralho

At UFC Fight Night on August 24, 2024, Jared Cannonier and Caio Borralho squared off in a highly anticipated middleweight bout, headlining the event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The fight was a critical opportunity for both fighters, with Cannonier, a veteran ranked #5, looking to solidify his status as a top contender, while Borralho, ranked #12, aimed to break into the upper echelon of the division.

The match unfolded with Borralho executing a masterful game plan. From the outset, he utilized his grappling skills to control the tempo, frequently taking Cannonier to the ground and neutralizing his striking power. While Cannonier is known for his knockout ability, Borralho’s strategy minimized these threats, forcing Cannonier to play a defensive game for most of the bout.

As the rounds progressed, Borralho's dominance became more apparent. He repeatedly landed significant strikes while maintaining top control during ground exchanges. Cannonier, despite his experience and resilience, struggled to mount a meaningful offense. By the end of the fight, the judges scored the contest overwhelmingly in favor of Borralho, with two judges scoring it 49-45 and one scoring it 48-46, awarding Borralho a unanimous decision victory.

This win marks a significant milestone in Borralho’s career. Moving past a seasoned opponent like Cannonier not only boosts his ranking but also positions him as a serious contender in the middleweight division. For Cannonier, this loss represents a setback, potentially stalling his hopes for another title shot.

In the co-main event, the women’s strawweight bout between Tabatha Ricci and Angela Hill also provided plenty of action. Ricci secured a unanimous decision victory, winning on all judges' scorecards 29-28. Ricci’s ability to outpace and outmaneuver the veteran Hill, particularly with her grappling and clinch work, was crucial to her success.

Overall, UFC Fight Night delivered a mix of dominant performances and strategic battles, with Borralho’s ascent in the middleweight rankings being the standout narrative. The event further highlighted the depth and talent across the UFC’s divisions, with newer faces like Borralho and Ricci stepping into the spotlight and making their marks. As the middleweight division continues to evolve, Borralho’s performance positions him as a fighter to watch in upcoming matchups, potentially setting the stage for a title contention in the near future.