In a fight that had been brewing since sometime last year, middleweights Abus Magomedov and Joe Pyfer finally faced off at Saturday’s UFC 320.
The main-card affair saw Pyfer coming in on a two-fight win streak with wins over Marc-Andre Barriault and Kelvin Gastelum; Magomedov had won three straight.
In the opening moments each fighter cautiously circled in the center of the cage. Forty-five seconds into the round, Pyfer attempted a takedown attempt forcing the action to the floor. As each fighter tumbled to the ground, Magomedov reversed position and ended up on top. Pyfer threatened a triangle but gave up back control before being dragged to the floor again. Pyfer was able to return to his feet need the one minute mark, looking to land big shots before the end of the round. A solid body kick from Magomedov followed by a left straight forced Pyfer to enter the clinch. After five minutes Magomedov presumably jumped out to an early lead.
Starting out with early pressure in round two Pyfer forced Magomedov to retreat to the fence were he landed a massive right hand. Magomedov stumbled backwards as Pyfer went in for the kill following up with ground and pound. Pyfer transitioned to side control looking for an arm triangle submission. Magomedov was barley able to escape the arm triangle but gave up his back in the process. Pyfer was able to latch an arm around Magomedov’s neck secure a second round rear naked choke submission.
This was a statement win in the career of Joe Pyfer, who is now riding a three fight win streak. Pyfer should see himself inside the top fifteen rankings come next week, with ranked opposition on the horizon.
Official Result: Joe Pyfer def. Abus Magomedov by submission (rear-naked choke), Round 2, 1:46
