Arnold Allen controlled the Octagon with counter-striking and great movement to win a unanimous decision over Jordan Rinaldi at UFC London.
Arnold Allen has won all four of his UFC fights heading into UFC London with a pair of Performance of the Night-worthy submission victories. The 25-year-old was 9-1 before making his promotional debut in 2015. He is coming off a front choke victory last May.
Jordan Rinaldi is a tough fighter who fought at lightweight for his first three UFC appearances. After going 1-2 with a Von Flue choke victory and an action-packed loss to Gregor Gillespie, moved to featherweight. At 145, he defeated Jason Knight by decision.
Jordan Rinaldi was picking his shots to start the fight, using leg kicks and body shots. Rinaldi went to his back after a slip, and Allen chose to stand over him and land repetitive leg kicks on his downed opponent. Rinaldi eventually stood up and got back to his distance striking. Allen was fairly cautious in the first round, with Rinaldi putting in most of the work until a switch kick landed for Allen near the end of the round, possibly rocking Rinaldi.
Arnold Allen was content to stay out of range, letting Rinaldi come up short with jabs. However, his body and leg kicks were landing on Allen. Allen avoided a takedown as well. Allen was picking his shots, countering when necessary, then like the first round, he rocked Rinaldi near the end of the round.
An uppercut landed for Rinaldi to start the final round. Allen’s defense was simply on point in this one, sliding out of danger whenever Rinaldi committed to a strike. A slick body hook landed for Allen, and a counter uppercut landed for Allen. After a leg kick for Rinaldi, Allen landed a body shot then a rapid combination. Allen went for it again at the end of the round, running at Rinaldi with a kick and a few punches near the buzzer.
Arnold Allen def. Jordan Rinaldi by Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-27, 29-28)
