The UFC middleweight division has a new lion in its den. Caio Borralho, at 31, showcased his formidable skills and emerging dominance in the division with a unanimous decision victory over the seasoned Jared Cannonier during a recent Fight Night main event.
A Clash of Styles
This bout introduced fans to a captivating contrast in fighting styles. Borralho's exceptional footwork and diverse striking techniques presented a continuous challenge for Cannonier, 40, who relied heavily on his powerful boxing and tactical stance switches. The first round saw Borralho keeping Cannonier on the back foot, utilizing well-placed leg kicks to unbalance his opponent.
In the second round, the tide momentarily turned as Cannonier landed a combination that wobbled Borralho, demonstrating the older fighter's enduring power. However, Borralho's resilience and tactical acumen shone through, and he responded with a staggering blow in the third round which left Cannonier reeling.
A Test of Endurance
The intensity of the fight did not wane in the fourth round. Borralho continued to land more strikes, but Cannonier inflicted significant damage by opening a deep gash under Borralho's right eye. The drama heightened as Borralho floored Cannonier with a punch against the fence, yet Cannonier displayed remarkable endurance, surviving the subsequent barrage.
The final round exhibited Borralho's submission skills as he attempted a Von Flue choke, a move rarely seen and even more rarely successful, serving as a testament to his versatility as a fighter. Despite the choke attempt, the fight lasted all five rounds, culminating in a unanimous decision by the judges, with scores of 49-45, 49-45, and 48-46 all in favor of Borralho.
Climbing the Ranks
With this victory, Borralho's professional record improved to an impressive 17-1 with 1 no-contest. The win also extended his undefeated streak to 17 fights, solidifying his position as a formidable force in the middleweight division. Before the fight, Borralho was ranked No. 12 among the UFC middleweights, a ranking sure to rise following his triumph over a fighter of Cannonier's calibre.
For Cannonier, this loss brings his record to 17-8 and marks the first time he has faced consecutive defeats since moving to the middleweight division in 2018. Despite his powerful performance, the outcome underscores the rising competition within the division.
Post-Fight Emotions and Challenges
Emotion ran high in the post-fight interview. Borralho, despite sporting a few battle scars, made an emphatic statement about his intentions and his identity in the UFC. "I'm the new face, even with some scratches. Everyone who sees these glasses should be afraid," he declared to UFC commentator Michael Bisping. His confidence was palpable, resonating through his bold words.
Borralho also didn't shy away from calling out his next potential 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!" he exclaimed, leaving no room for doubt about his future ambitions.
The UFC middleweight division continues to evolve, with Borralho's recent victory highlighting the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the sport. As Borralho eyes higher-ranked opponents and Cannonier seeks redemption, fans can anticipate more electrifying battles in the months to come.