The UFC’s second trip to Russia is in the books, with Alistair Overeem and Roxanne Modafferi among the big winners at UFC St. Petersburg.
UFC St. Petersburg is over, and the night even managed to make a little bit of history. The promotion’s second visit to Russia saw it’s first ever female fight, and trailblazer Roxanne Modafferi earned the distinction of becoming the first ever woman in the UFC to win a fight in Russia. That came in a split decision win over Antonina Shevchenko, sister of flyweight champ Valentina.
With a win over one sister, Roxanne could put herself in position for a title challenge if she strings together a couple of victories in the 125lb division. After all, the sibling revenge storyline would be one of the easier sells at flyweight. However, seeing has how Modafferi is only three fights removed from competing for the inaugural UFC women’s flyweight title, that might be a while coming.
In the main event, meanwhile, Alistair Overeem and Aleksei Oleinik put on a spirited battle for a round. ‘The Boa Constrictor,’ Oleinik, attempted an early choke after pulling guard, but had more success on the feet, backing his opponent up and forcing Overeem to cover up after eating numerous strikes. However, as Oleinik tired, Overeem came on, firing punishing knees that felled Oleinik, and allowed ‘The Reem’ to move in for the kill — a TKO victory via ground n’ pound.
Watch the UFC St. Petersburg post-fight press conference live stream above, with Saturday’s winners discussing the night!
