Sean Strickland Edges Out Paulo Costa by Split Decision at UFC 302
Strickland vs. Costa: UFC 302 Co-Main Event
A middleweight clash between former champion Sean Strickland and former title challenger Paulo Costa served as the UFC 302 co-main event. Both fighters entered the octagon at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, eager to bounce back from recent losses.
Strickland's Return to Form
Former middleweight champion Sean Strickland returned to action on Saturday against former title challenger Paulo Costa. Strickland, coming off a loss to Dricus Du Plessis, was determined to get back in the win column and maintain his status as a top contender in the division.
Costa's Fight for Relevance
Paulo Costa, also coming off a loss to former titleholder Robert Whittaker, was fighting to remain relevant in the weight class after losing three of his last four fights. Costa started strong, landing powerful leg kicks, but Strickland's relentless pressure soon became evident.
Round one
Costa opened with powerful leg kicks, but Strickland quickly responded with a front kick to the body. Strickland's pressure forced Costa to fight, moving backward, setting the tone for the fight.
Round two
Strickland continued pressing forward with front kicks to the body. Costa delivered a hard leg kick and began targeting Strickland's body with jabs and punches. Strickland connected with a left hand in the closing moments of the round.
Round three
Strickland started landing more frequently as Costa appeared to fade. Strickland maintained the pace with teeps to the body and landed a combination and a right hand near the end of the frame.
Round four
Costa landed jabs to the body, but Strickland's relentless pressure continued. Both fighters exchanged combinations, and Strickland ended the round with a barrage, trying to "steal" it.
Round five
Costa landed a jab to the body to start the final frame, but Strickland quickly returned to his teep strategy. Costa connected with a hard leg kick, and both fighters exchanged strikes. Strickland landed a head kick that knocked Costa down, but Costa immediately got back to his feet. Strickland ended the round strong.
Judges' Decision
The commentators believed the fight was close, but felt Strickland should get the nod. The judges scored the bout for Strickland via split decision. The scorecards read 49-46, 50-45, and 49-46 in favor of Strickland, marking a significant win for the former champion.
