UFC middleweight Dusko Todorovic came into his fight with Zach Reese with a new team, a new coach, and sights on a run starting at UFC Vegas 107 on Saturday night.
Todorovic (12-5) said he “lost” his former team during camp for his last fight. He’s now moved onto a new squad with a new leader, and he’s even opened up his own gym. On a two-fight losing streak Todorovic aimed to snap that and get back to winning.
Reese (8-2) also came in off a loss, to Azamat Bekoev at UFC 311, and one could argue had a favorable matchup against Todorovic. The 31-year-old from Houston got into the octagon on Saturday hoping for a highlight victory.
Round 1 kicked off fast with both men landing body kicks before Todorovic shot in and got a takedown quick. The two scrambled back and forth, with Todorovic looking for the guillotine, and Reese continuing to scramble.
Reese was able to get to his feet and land some damage on Todorovic. A nasty elbow up top and a knee to the body encouraged Todorovic to get away from the clinch. They fought on the fence for a bit again before Reese seemingly pulled Todorovic on top of him.
Elevating his opponent had worked for Reese, but Todorovic was able to maintain top position for the rest of the round.
Round 2 Reese came out on fire landing two hooks quickly. Then a nasty right hand snapped Todorovic’s head back forcing him to shoot and slow Reese a bit. Reese was able to get Todorovic off him and force him to strike.
Reese got saucy with his offense looking to land a big power shot to finish the fight. His opponent appreciated some of those shots giving him a high five for effort. Then he shot in for a takedown which Reese stopped easily.
Reese got too fancy going for a big body kick which Todorovic used to get him down and take top position. It took him a bit but he was able to get back to his feet in time to fight on the fence to the end of the round.
Round 3 the two showed respect in the middle of the octagon and got to it. Reese worked his kicks early going to the body then leg. Todorovic continued to wait for an opportunity to shoot.
Todorovic looked for takedowns, but Reese was fresher and stuffed them. Off the stuffs he landed shots up top, and heavy. Reese went from leading to letting Todorovic throw and him reacting. A big right hand from Todorovic forced Reese to shoot, but nothing came of it.
The fight ended with Todorovic looking for a takedown.
Official Result: Zach Reese def. Dusko Todorovic via Unanimous Decision (29-28×3)
