UFC 298 Results: Fighter Showboats While Choking Opponent Unconscious
Anthony Hernandez has derailed the surging Roman Kopylov at UFC 298.
"Fluffy" endured an early onslaught and faced difficulty securing takedowns in round one, but his pace was too much for the Russian striker in round two. The American scrapper secured Kopylov's back and sank in two consecutive rear-naked chokes before Kopylov tapped to the third.
With this victory, Hernandez protects his #15 middleweight ranking and also maintains the second-longest winning streak in the middleweight division.
Originally set to face Ikram Aliskerov, "Fluffy" had to adapt when the Dagestani fighter withdrew. Kopylov proved to be just as formidable, and Hernandez has undoubtedly secured his shot at climbing the rankings.
As for Kopylov, he will likely be rewarded with a favorable matchup as thanks for fighting on short notice. Nevertheless, fans genuinely appreciate his entertaining style and he'll garner attention wherever he sits on a fight card.
Round-by-Round
Round 1
Kopylov exhibited perfect takedown defense in the first round, appearing to silence his wrestling-focused doubters. The Russian landed hard on Hernandez's body with that signature roundhouse kick, causing "Fluffy" to drop his elbow to protect the body.
Hernandez's strategy appeared to be to overwhelm Kopylov with volume and attack the hips, but Kopylov shucked him off and defended well. The American goes 0 for 8 on takedowns in the first four minutes.
Hernandez gets credited one takedown in 11 attempts in round one. If you score by control, Hernandez takes it, but Kopylov landed the more damaging strikes and defended most of the takedowns.
Round 2
Hernandez pushes the pace. Kopylov lands a nice uppercut to the solar plexus --- he manages to crack Hernandez with a good shot that forces him to cover up. Hernandez flips him the bird, flurries, and takes Kopylov's back. The Russian defends, but eventually finds himself again with Hernandez on his back.
"Fluffy" sinks in a leg triangle and almost secures a choke. Kopylov almost escapes, but Hernandez sinks it in again - harder this time. Hernandez gives his opponent space before sinking it in for a third time! He nods to the crowd with a huge grin on his face, Kopylov taps - it's over!
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