Jake Matthews was never really in any danger as he cruised to victory over Rostem Akman to finish out the televised card at UFC 243 in Melbourne, Australia.
TUF Nations veteran Jake Matthews headed into his 12th octagon outing at UFC 243. The 25-year old ‘Celtic Kid’ entered the fight off a loss to Anthony Rocco Martin last December. However, prior to that, he’d run up three straight wins — and looked to get back in the win column at home against Rostem Akman, who was 0-1 in the promotion to start the night.
Matthew’s chopped away at Akman’s lead leg early, while Akman had his hands going. Matthews would fire off a high kick that was blocked. He looked light on his feet, and that movement would be key against the powerful Rostem Akman.
For all of Akman’s power, however, he fought a measured fight early. And it was Matthews clipping his opponent first, with a right hand. That punch would land several times for the Australian.
In the second, Matthews continued to show the better movement of the two, circling. He’d catch Akman early in the frame. Akman would throw a counter-right on a Matthews entry, but the hometown favorite appeared no worse for the wear.
Matthews would touch his opponent with a front kick, a glancing blow. But neither man seemed to really get going. By the third, Akman was lagging behind, mainly due to accuracy issues. A takedown would do him a world of good, but it never came. He seemed committed to trade with Matthews. It was Matthews who would take the back later in the round, wrenching Akman to the mat. However, he was unable to keep him there. The sudden shift to grappling ate more time that Akman desperately needed, however, and it was Matthews landing off the break.
Official Result: Jake Matthews def. Rostem Akman by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
