UFC Vegas 85: UFC Apex; Las Vegas, Nevada
Was this main event of 185ers a barn burner? No. They aren’t always. But it did provide a storyline, if the company decides to go one way. And it might have solved the what’s next for BORZ?, should they decide on going a different direction. And it also provided raised eyebrows.
For just about every minute of the five-rounds Nassourdine Imavov had his way with Roman Dolidze. Recently Andy Foster discussed how the rules need to be tinkered with when it comes to “a downed fighter” using a hand on the mat. And in the fourth-round, an “illegal” head kick arrived. Which almost cost the 28-year old Frenchman the scrap, after almost picking up a first-round finish. Talk about your swings in momentum.
For the infraction referee HERB DEAN had to deduct a point from Imavov. But it could have been worse for him too. He started chirping with Chris Curtis, whom he has unfinished business with. And that could have cost him the fight outright.
Once the action restarted, Imavov continued to use Dolidze’s face for target practice. Both in close and at range. It was a hard paced fight thanks to Imavov, and by the finish he was slowing down.
We Might Have Solved Who’s Legit In The Second Tier Of The Division
Imavov is becoming a serious rival for XTREME COUTURE. He’s lost to Sean Strickland, and wants that one back. As well as wanting back the no-contest against Curtis. And now a victory over Dolidze. Both those rematches would work anytime. However, there’s an interesting way to go next.
Was this a case of Imavov becoming a next level fighter with precision striking coming from every angle, and a solid kicking game. Or was this a case of Dolidze showing once again he gets stuck in the mud, plods along and tips off his attacks. Who knows.
Since he’s about to make a jump in the rankings, and most of the division’s booked, let’s see if his pace is legit. Khamzat Chimaev doesn’t have a true top victory at middleweight. If he wants one, here it is. BORZ will definitely put a pace on Imavov. He’ll also test Imavov’s chin. Chimaev has very few holes, although he can get sloppy and isn’t the best counter striker. He’ll definitely be leading the dance though.
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