The UFC middleweight division has officially crowned a new contender. Caio Borralho, in a stunning display of athleticism, defeated Jared Cannonier in a memorable Fight Night main event. With this victory, Borralho, at 31 years old, showcased why he is a formidable force in the division, while the 40-year-old Cannonier now faces a challenging path forward.
A Technical Showcase
From the opening bell, it was clear that both fighters brought contrasting styles into the octagon. Borralho, known for his exceptional footwork and versatile striking techniques, kept the pressure on Cannonier. Throughout the first round, Borralho relentlessly attacked with leg kicks, which effectively disrupted Cannonier’s rhythm. Cannonier, relying on his powerful boxing and frequent stance switches, struggled to find his footing against Borralho’s agile movements.
The second round saw Cannonier briefly regain control as he wobbled Borralho with a powerful combination. But Borralho proved resilient, weathering the storm and countering with precision. By the third round, Borralho had found his range, delivering a staggering blow that further tilted the bout in his favor.
The Momentum Shifts
Despite Borralho landing more strikes in the fourth round, Cannonier demonstrated his indomitable spirit. A deep gash under Borralho's right eye courtesy of Cannonier's relentless assault was proof of the veteran’s enduring power. However, Borralho's near-flawless technique shone through as he floored Cannonier with a punch against the fence. Cannonier, showing extraordinary resilience, endured the barrage and continued to fight back.
In the final round, Borralho attempted a Von Flue choke, a risky move that could have ended the fight definitively. Yet, Cannonier's defensive prowess ensured the fight went the distance. At the sound of the final bell, both fighters had given their all, but it was Borralho who was ahead on the judges' scorecards.
A Unanimous Decision
The judges rendered their verdict, awarding Borralho a unanimous decision with scores of 49-45, 49-45, and 48-46. This victory propels Borralho’s record to an impressive 17-1 with 1 no-contest. Remarkably, he remains undefeated in his last 17 fights. Entering the bout as the UFC's No. 12 ranked middleweight, Borralho’s triumph over the higher-ranked Cannonier is a testament to his growing prowess and potential within the division.
Post-Fight Reflections and Callouts
With blood still fresh under his right eye, Borralho’s post-fight interview with UFC commentator Michael Bisping was filled with confidence and an eye towards the future. "I'm the new face, even with some scratches. Everyone who sees these glasses should be afraid," he declared, a bold statement to his peers and fans alike.
Not one to rest on his laurels, Borralho immediately set his sights on his next target. "You know who I want next. I've called you out two times already. You've already beat Sean [Strickland]. You've already beat [Israel] Adesanya. You already beat all these guys. So Dricus du Plessis, get your ass over here or in South Africa. I'm coming for you, boy!" Borralho exclaimed, aiming to climb further up the middleweight rankings.
Future Implications for Cannonier
For Jared Cannonier, this defeat marks a critical juncture in his career. His record now stands at 17-8, and this bout signifies his first set of consecutive losses since transitioning to the middleweight division in 2018. The path ahead requires introspection and recalibration as he looks to regain his former momentum and status within the division.
As the dust settles from this electrifying bout, the middleweight division undeniably feels the impact of Borralho’s ascent. His performance against an established veteran like Cannonier highlights a shifting landscape where new talents rise, aiming to dethrone the old guard. Borralho’s journey is far from over, and the UFC audience eagerly awaits the next chapter in his burgeoning career.