UFC 273 had a number of standout scraps, but none had the anticipation of Khamzat Chimaev vs. Gilbert Burns.
None lived up to expectations that way Chimaev vs. Burns did, either. Considered the first true test of Chimaev at a high level, “Borz” came through, though not without some adversity. There was no “smeshing” at UFC 273 for a fighter used to quick finishes. Instead, it was a three-round war of attrition, back-and-forth with both fighters taking serious damage.
For their efforts, Chimaev and Burns picked up Fight of the Night at UFC 273 in Jacksonville, Florida. UFC President Dana White announced the news in comical fashion during the event’s post-fight press conference at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. “If I need to tell you what Fight of the Night is, you shouldn’t be here,” White quipped.
Performance of the Night bonuses at UFC 273 went to featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski, and 44-year old heavyweight Aleksei Oleinik. Volkanovski put his title on the line against The Korean Zombie, putting on a dominant performance that ended in a fourth round TKO.
Oleinik, seemingly ageless, was himself in danger of being submitted by opponent Jared Vanderaa. But the veteran grappler reversed position, and put Vanderaa away with a scarf-hold choke to secure his 60th win as a pro.
All four fighters will pocket an extra $50,000 for their efforts.
