UFC lightweight Guram Kutateladze looked to create a win streak going for a second consecutive victory, but first had to deal with Kaue Fernandes at UFC London on Saturday.
Kutateladze (13-4) snapped a two-fight losing streak with a win over Jordan Vucenic last August. The 33-year-old Georgian came into UFC London with a 2-2 UFC record.
Fernandes (9-2) made his first appearance of 2025 against Kutateladze. He was scheduled to face Jared Gordon in February, but visa issues pulled him from the card. The Brazilian made his UFC debut in 2023 narrowly losing a split-decision to Marc Diakiese. He scored his first promotional victory against Mohammad Yahya last August.
Round 1 Kutateladze was very measured letting Fernandes lead the dance early. Fernandes used kicks to the legs and body to get his range and rhythm down. Fernandes began to land some big shots on him forcing the shot, but Kutateladze wasn’t able to secure it.
A head kick dropped Kutateladze momentarily, but he was able to shake the cobwebs quickly. Fernandes continued to land kicks to the lead leg and Kutateladze showed the damage was getting to him.
Another shot dropped Kutateladze right before the 10 second mark of the first round, but he survived.
Round 2 another leg kick dropped Kutateladze with Fernandes following him to the canvas and landing damage from top position. Kutateladze was able to get into a guard, and Fernandes forced him to stand back up.
Kutateladze started to land a bit as he worked to avoid further damage to the lead leg. Fernandes chose to start punishing the other leg forcing Kuateladze to throw very heavy counter shots looking for a fight changing shot.
After a couple heavy exchanges Fernandes ran into for the body lock and a trip takedown landing on top of Kutateladze who threw what he could off his back. Fernandes hopped back to his feet trying to land kicks to the lead leg in that position, but Kutateladze scrambled to his feet.
Round 3 most expected this fight wouldn’t get past the second round due to the leg kicks, but Kutateladze is as game as they come. Kutateladze came out more aggressive with Fernandes continuing his game, but more countering than the first two rounds.
Fernandes continued to land calf kicks to the back leg of Kuateladze who was forced to switch stances. Kutateladze accepted the situation knowing he needed a finish and putting himself in danger to do it.
Kutateladze began to close in landing more and more on Fernandes, but another leg kick dropped the Georgian. He got back to his feet, but wasn’t able to offer up much else as the fight went to the judges.
Official Result: Kaue Fernandes def. Guram Kutateladze via Unanimous Decision (30-27×3)
