While the fight topping the UFC Vegas 59 card was a passing of the torch scenario between Thiago Santos and Jamahal Hill, the Fight Night event also doubled as the finale of The Ultimate Fighter 30.
Thank goodness. Losing two fights in the span of 24 hours from Friday to Saturday, UFC Vegas 59 lacked depth (not to mention name value), but seeing a couple of TUF champions crowned at least added some relevance to the event.
In the TUF 30 heavyweight finale, Mohammed Usman, brother of UFC welterweight champ Kamaru, was set to face off with Zac Pauga. For his part, Pauga had spent his entire pro career fighting at 205, and had moved up for his Ultimate Fighter opportunity. Usman on the other hand was closer to a true heavyweight, not massive coming in around 230lbs, but certainly built for the division.
In the TUF 30 women’s flyweight final, Juliana Miller, one of the stars of the season, was up against Invicta FC vet Brogan Walker.
Also on Saturday’s card, Terrance McKinney returned after a firefight against Drew Dober in March, this time taking on Erick “Ghost Pepper” Gonzalez. The Combate veteran had been knocked out in his promotional debut last year by Jim Miller.
Following Saturday’s UFC Vegas 59 card, tune in for the post-fight press conference. A live stream is available above.
