Instant Replay Saves Fighter From DQ, in Second UFC 217 Fight

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is in New York today for UFC 217. The highly anticipated night of fights is set to include three title fights, including the long awaited octagon return of former welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre. In the night's featured UFC Fight Pass prelim, heavyweights Alexey Oleinik and Curtis Blaydes went toe-to-toe for division dominance. In the first round, Blaydes was able to get his opponent to the ground but was unable to capitalize on his position. Getting back to his feet, Oleinik managed to get a few shots off before being brought back to the ground. When the fight was brought back to the feet, Blaydes completely rocked his opponent with a series of punches. Oleinik was momentarily dropped, but survived the onslaught from his opponent. In the second round, Blaydes nearly struck Oleinik in the head when Oleinik was on all fours. However, the illegal strike appeared to only graze the ear of the downed fighter. The fight was halted, as the doctor took a look at Oleinik. Oleinik informed the doctor that he was unable to continue. That being said, it would appear that the strike ultimately ended in Blaydes' favor. During the UFC instant replay, which is now being implemented for the New York event, it was determined that the fight would end in Blaydes' favor. UFC Results: Curtis Blaydes def. Alexey Oleinik by TKO (doctor stoppage) in round 2 https://twitter.com/ufc/status/926958589914234880