On Saturday, the UFC returned to FOX with an intriguing night of fights in New York.
In the main event, former UFC Middleweight Champion Chris Weidman attempted to end his three-fight losing streak in the UFC.
In order to get back in the win column, Weidman had to defeat Kelvin Gastelum, who was trying to prove he deserved a title shot at 185 pounds.
Weidman was the first fighter to produce damage in the fight with a kick. Weidman continued to land combinations of punches and kicks. Eventually, Weidman went for a takedown and took Gastelum’s back. Gastelum got to his feet but couldn’t break Weidman’s grip. Weidman got the fight back to the ground and secured top position. Weidman then threatened with an arm lock. Gastelum used the position to get back to his feet. Gastelum then dropped Weidman at the end of the round but ran out of time.
Gastelum started the second round throwing combinations. Weidman retaliated with some punches of his own. The two fighters then engaged in a clinch which resulted in Weidman getting a takedown. Weidman then took Gastelum’s back. Gastelum got to his feet but Weidman kept his grip and got him back down. From on top, Weidman began throwing down punches and elbows. The round ended with Weidman taking Gastelum’s back.
Weidman dropped Gastelum early with a punch to start the middle round. Gastelum came out aggressive but slowed down after being dropped. Weidman began to unload on his opponent. Weidman went for a takedown but Gastelum stayed on his feet. After struggling against the cage, Weidman got the fight to the mat. Gastelum immediately got to his feet. Weidman then landed another takedown. and took Gastelum’s back. Weidman then went for an arm triangle and finished the fight.
Official Result:
Chris Weidman defeats Kelvin Gastelum by submission (Round 3)
HERE WE GOOOOOO! #UFCLongIsland pic.twitter.com/B8amKq8zgb
— UFC (@ufc) July 23, 2017
OHHH!! A speedy left from @KelvinGastelum knocks down Weidman! #UFCLongIsland pic.twitter.com/Qwubh8iENw
— UFC (@ufc) July 23, 2017
OHHH!! A speedy left from @KelvinGastelum knocks down Weidman! #UFCLongIsland pic.twitter.com/Qwubh8iENw
— UFC (@ufc) July 23, 2017
Chris Weidman IS BACK! A big submission victory over a game Kelvin Gastelum in round three! #UFCLongIsland https://t.co/5jelU8uvVZ
— FOX Sports: UFC (@UFCONFOX) July 23, 2017