The UFC middleweight division has a new contender to watch: Caio Borralho. The 31-year-old Brazilian fighter recently solidified his status by defeating Jared Cannonier in a Fight Night main event, showcasing both skill and determination.
A Dominant Performance
The bout, which went the distance, was a thrilling showcase of contrasting styles. Borralho, known for his exceptional footwork and diverse array of striking techniques, kept his 40-year-old opponent, Cannonier, on his toes. While Cannonier primarily relied on his powerful boxing and stance switches, it was Borralho who managed to keep his rival off balance, especially with leg kicks that were effective in the first round.
The second round saw a shift in momentum as Cannonier wobbled Borralho with a well-placed combination, reminding everyone why he has been a formidable contender in the division. However, Borralho regained control in the third round, delivering a staggering blow to Cannonier that set the tone for the remainder of the fight.
The Back-and-Forth Battle
The fourth round was particularly grueling. Borralho landed more strikes, but Cannonier opened a deep gash under Borralho's right eye, showcasing his resilience and striking power. Despite the injury, Borralho responded by flooring Cannonier with a punch against the fence, putting the seasoned fighter on shaky ground. Although Cannonier endured the barrage after the knockdown, it was clear that Borralho's relentless pressure was making a significant impact.
In the final round, Borralho attempted a Von Flue choke, demonstrating his versatility and grappling skills. Despite this, Cannonier managed to hold on until the final bell, proving his toughness and experience. When the fight concluded, it was the judges' unanimous decision that sealed Borralho's victory, with scores of 49-45, 49-45, and 48-46 in his favor.
Post-Fight Reflections
With this win, Caio Borralho improved his record to 17-1 with 1 no-contest, remaining undefeated in his last 17 fights. Entering the bout as the UFC's No. 12 ranked middleweight, Borralho's impressive performance has undoubtedly moved him higher up the rankings. Jared Cannonier, on the other hand, now holds a record of 17-8, facing consecutive losses for the first time since moving to the middleweight division in 2018.
After the fight, a visibly triumphant Borralho declared 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." His confidence was palpable, reflecting his rising status in the division.
Looking Ahead
Not one to rest on his laurels, Borralho already has his sights set on his next challenge. During his post-fight callout, he boldly exclaimed, "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!"
With this kind of determination and competitive spirit, Caio Borralho is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the UFC middleweight division. Fans will be eagerly awaiting his next fight, as he continues to climb the ranks and make a name for himself among the elite fighters of the division.