Casey Kenney won another grappling-focused fight, this time upsetting the undefeated Manny Bermudez at UFC 241.
After a decision by the California State Athletic Commission, this contest will be fought at a catchweight of 140-pounds due to both fighters cutting a significant amount of weight the day before weigh-ins. Manny Bermudez comes into UFC 241 as a highly-touted bantamweight prospect at 14-0. Three of those wins have come in the Octagon, all by submission. Casey Kenney started his career at 11-1-1 when he signed with the UFC on short notice to take on veteran Ray Borg. Kenney upset Borg, winning by unanimous decision in a back-and-forth fight.
Kenney tried a jumping switch kick out of the gate but missed. He came in with a combination but couldn’t land cleanly, however, he followed with a leg kick. Kenney went high with a kick. Bermudez caught a spinning kick and took Kenney down. After a scramble, Bermudez established half guard, but Kenney worked his way up using the fence. He then threw Bermudez to the canvas into side control. Bermudez hooked one of his opponent’s legs with his own and forced a scramble to stand up. Kenney landed a left straight before the round ended.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-9 Kenney
Scrambles highlighted the start of the second round, with Kenney eventually taking side control. Bermudez tried to sweep, but ended up giving up his back. Kenney was in control despite Bermudez’s crafty attempts at rolling out. Two rounds in and we could see Casey Kenney score another upset.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-9 Kenney
Bermudez came out aggressive in the final round, landing hooks with consistency. Kenney eventually closed the distance and landed a trip takedown along the fence. However, Bermudez kicked off the cage to sweep Kenney and get top control. Bermudez slid to half guard and went for a guillotine from top half guard. Kenney attempted to sweep, but Bermudez clamped him down and landed in full mount. Kenney scooted to the fence as the round ended. It was a very close fight contested mainly on the ground.
Cageside Press scored the round 10-9 Bermudez (29-28 Kenney)
Casey Kenney def. Manny Bermudez by Unanimous Decision (29-28 x3)
Check out all the results from UFC 241 here!
