The UFC middleweight division recently saw the rise of a promising new contender, as Caio Borralho delivered a standout performance against Jared Cannonier in a Fight Night main event. Borralho, aged 31, faced the 40-year-old Cannonier, and from the onset, it was clear that this bout would be a display of contrasting fighting styles and strategic prowess.
An Impressive Showcase of Skills
Borralho's exceptional footwork and diverse array of striking techniques set the tone early in the fight. Throughout the first round, he kept Cannonier off balance with well-placed leg kicks, a tactic that appeared to disrupt Cannonier's rhythm. In contrast, Cannonier leaned on his powerful boxing and frequent stance switches to counter Borralho's offense.
As the fight progressed into the second round, Cannonier momentarily took control, wobbling Borralho with a potent combination. However, Borralho quickly regained his composure and continued to showcase his versatility in striking.
The Turning Point
The third round was a critical juncture in the bout. Borralho delivered a staggering blow that left Cannonier reeling. Despite the ferocity of Borralho's assaults, Cannonier's resilience allowed him to endure the onslaught and stay in the fight.
Moving into the fourth round, Borralho maintained his aggressive approach, landing more strikes. Cannonier, showing his warrior spirit, managed to open a deep gash under Borralho's right eye, a testament to the intensity of their exchanges. The round concluded with Borralho flooring Cannonier with a powerful punch against the fence, but Cannonier remarkably withstood the barrage that followed.
A Final Push and a Verdict
The final round saw Borralho attempting a Von Flue choke, showcasing his grappling skills and determination to finish the fight decisively. However, the bout ultimately went the distance, prompting the judges to deliver their verdict. In the end, all three judges rendered a unanimous decision in favor of Borralho, with scores of 49-45, 49-45, and 48-46.
With this victory, Caio Borralho improved his impressive record to 17-1, with 1 no-contest. Additionally, he remains undefeated in his last 17 fights, affirming his status as a formidable force in the middleweight division. Entering the bout as the UFC's No. 12 ranked middleweight, Borralho’s victory could propel him further up the ranks.
The Aftermath for Cannonier
For Jared Cannonier, the fight resulted in his record falling to 17-8. This defeat marks the first time Cannonier has faced consecutive losses since moving to the middleweight division in 2018, prompting questions about his future in the sport.
Bold Calls and Future Aspirations
Following his victory, Borralho spoke confidently in his post-fight interview with UFC commentator Michael Bisping. "I'm the new face, even with some scratches. Everyone who sees these glasses should be afraid," he declared, emphasizing his intent to become a dominant figure in the division. In a bold callout, Borralho set his sights on a future opponent. "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's drive and determination were clear, as he eagerly anticipated his next challenge. As the UFC continues to evolve, fighters like Borralho and Cannonier play pivotal roles in shaping the future of their divisions. For Borralho, this victory is not just a milestone but a stepping stone towards greater challenges and opportunities in his burgeoning career.