Darren Stewart was badly in need of a win heading into UFC Liverpool on Sunday. Against Eric Spicely, he got just that, and did it in style.
Kicking off the UFC Liverpool main card on Sunday at the Echo Arena, Eric Spicely faced off against England’s own Darren Stewart. It was a critical fight for both men, especially Stewart, who entered the night at 0-3. Spicely, an Ultimate Fighter product who surprised many with an upset submission win of Thiago Santos in Brazil a couple years back, was himself 0-2 heading into the bout.
One man would snap his streak at UFC Fight Night 130 in Liverpool.
Stewart was clearly aware of the takedown early, flashing level changes and keeping Spicely on his toes. Spicely worked in some kicks, then connected with a heavy right and followed that up with a single leg attempt. Stewart, however, was able to fend the attempt off. Thanks to that solid defense, the remainder of the round played out on the feet. Both men had their moments, with Stewart connecting towards the end of the frame, shifting momentum to his side as they headed to the second.
Heavy GnP! Big win for @Darren_MMA at #UFCLiverpool! pic.twitter.com/cYdpsdWMdK
— UFC Canada (@UFC_CA) May 27, 2018
Darren Stewart had his opponent backing up early after connecting over the right eye to open the second. Not too long later, after Spicely returned fire, a big right landed for Stewart. Spicely was hurt, but fired right back to buy time. A left jab then wobbled Spicely, and he was dropped! Stewart pounced, smelling blood, and began to unleash a furious barrage of ground and pound, forcing the ref to make the save! The three-fight losing streak was over for Stewart, as he snapped the skid in style.
After the fight, an emotional Stewart said that he “deserved to be here” — clearly aware of what the victory meant.
Darren Stewart def. Eric Spicely by TKO, Round 2, 1:47
