UPDATE: Nassourdine Imavov has just delivered a stunning performance in Paris, decisively defeating Caio Borralho by unanimous decision in a thrilling five-round battle. The victory, which took place on Saturday, solidifies Imavov’s position as a leading contender in the UFC’s middleweight division, with all three judges scoring the bout 50-45, 49-46, and 49-46.
Imavov’s fifth consecutive win brings his record to 17-4 and positions him in line for a potential title shot against the formidable Khamzat Chimaev. The urgency surrounding this matchup intensifies as the UFC plans another significant middleweight clash in October, featuring Anthony Hernandez against Reinier de Ridder, which could further shape the title landscape.
Immediately after the fight, Imavov expressed his desire for a championship opportunity, stating,
“I am next. [Borralho] was unbeaten for 10 years. I just beat him, and beat him with style as well. I need to be the next one.”
Despite hoping for a finish, he highlighted a painful injury, saying,
“On my right foot, a tendon or something like that let go. It was really painful. I would have liked to get the finish, but it is what it is.”
Throughout the fight, Imavov demonstrated superior striking skills, outlanding Borralho 100-90 in total strikes. His ability to evade punches and deliver powerful counters was pivotal, as he maintained control in the center of the Octagon and successfully defended all five of Borralho’s takedown attempts. This defeat marks Borralho’s first loss in the UFC and his first overall setback since 2015.
In a reflective moment, Borralho admitted,
“Nassourdine was just the better man today. He was very fast, as I was expecting. I couldn’t attack that much.”
His Brazilian MMA team, The Fighting Nerds, faced a tough night, as lightweight Mauricio Ruffy also suffered his first UFC loss against Benoit Saint Denis, who submitted him in the second round.
Imavov’s victory is particularly significant for the French MMA scene, as he was among five local fighters who triumphed on Saturday’s card. Meanwhile, veteran Paul Craig announced his retirement from mixed martial arts following a TKO loss to Modestas Bukauskas, adding an emotional layer to the evening’s events.
Fans and analysts alike are now eagerly awaiting the UFC’s decision on the next title challenger in the middleweight division, with Imavov firmly in the spotlight as a potential contender against Chimaev. As developments unfold, the MMA community remains abuzz with excitement over what this means for the future of the division.
