With Kennedy Nzechukwu injured, Martin Buday was in need of a new opponent for UFC Vegas 105, and found one in Uran Satybaldiev.
Making his promotional debut on very short notice, Satybaldiev was at a disadvantage not only in prep time, but weight. The undefeated fighter from Kyrgyzstan, an LFA light heavyweight champ, weighed in at just 222.5lbs at Friday’s official weigh-in.
Buday? He maxed out the heavyweight limit, a full 266lbs.
In round one, Satybaldiev came out with high volume, letting his hands go early. Buday was the one pressing forward, looking to use his size by backing Satybaldiev against the cage. He managed to do so briefly, but Satybaldiev broke free and fired off a sharp combination, showing little respect for Buday’s power. Still, Buday remained composed, and when he landed, it was clear his shots carried more weight. He also found success with chopping leg kicks throughout the round. It was competitive, but Buday edged it by landing the more impactful strikes.
In round two, Satybaldiev came out aggressive, pushing Buday against the cage and unloading up top. However, once his output slowed, Buday slowly worked his way back inside and returned the favor, pinning Satybaldiev against the fence. Despite the size disadvantage, Satybaldiev was able to circle out. He stayed busy with his hands but lacked variety in his attack. Buday stayed calm, continually landing jabs and leg kicks. In another close round, Buday finished stronger, doing good work in the clinch and likely stealing the frame.
The final round started with urgency from Satybaldiev, who landed a clean one-two that backed Buday up. His offense came in bursts, though, and once he paused, Buday again walked him down and pressed him to the cage. Buday didn’t hold him there long, and Satybaldiev resumed letting his hands go. Though he hadn’t seemed to hurt Buday much throughout the fight, he finally stunned him with a right hand that left Buday on shaky legs. Oddly, Satybaldiev then opted to shoot for a takedown against the bigger man. Buday stuffed it with ease and had time to recover. From there, Buday controlled the clinch until the ref separated them. In the final minute, Buday landed the cleaner offense and closed the fight on a strong note. No surprise come the scorecards, with Buday winning a unanimous decision.
Official Result: Martin Buday def. Uran Satybaldiev by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
