Danilo Marques opened up UFC 253 with a decision victory over Khadis Ibragimov on the UFC Fight Pass prelims.
Light heavyweight action opened up the UFC 253 card on Fight Island, as Khadis Ibragimov met newcomer Danilo Marques to kick off the early prelims. After three fights inside the octagon dating back to 2019, Ibragimov was still looking for his first win. Brazil’s Marques, meanwhile, entered on a two-fight win streak.
Marques wasted no time shooting on a single leg but Ibragimov defended very well. Alot of wrestling early on for Marques but Ibragimov was winning every scramble. Half-way through the first round, they separated. Ibragimov threw a lot of heat in flurries forcing Marques to shoot again. Marques finally got the takedown and took the back to end the first round.
Round two, when Ibragimov made the first advancement, Marques shot and again took the back. The Brazilian continued to search for the rear-naked choke but couldn’t find his grip. With not much action, Marques ended the round on the back.
Both men went shot-for-shot in the third before Marques shot for a takedown. But Ibragimov defended with a repeated fence grab. A nice flurry from Ibragimov forced Marques to rush forward eating shots on his way in. Ibragimov threatened with a tight front choke but Marques escaped and got a takedown. Marques was very tired and Ibragimov was able to sweep and get on top. Ibragimov proved to be anything but a conditioned athlete as well, allowing Marques to get back to his feet and get a takedown of his own. Marques ended the fight on the back of Ibragimov.
Official Result: Danilo Marques def. Khadis Ibragimov by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)
