Brando Pericic got a solid step up in competition at UFC Perth, as he took on Shamil Gaziev in heavyweight action.
2-0 in the UFC entering the fight, Pericic was fighting for the third time well inside 12 months and hoping to book a fourth date inside that mark. Gaziev, fighting for the first time in 2026, was looking to shake off a loss to Waldo Cortes-Acosta.
The big boys met in the middle of the Octagon to set off the second fight of the main card, with the fans hoping for fireworks after a lackluster Tuivasa vs. Sutherland. Pericic found success first, landing a low kick on the outside leg of Gaziev. Quickly, though, the two were trading in the pocket, with Shamil Gaziev clipping Pericic before bringing him down to the ground for his first takedown.
Back to his feet, Pericic was still caught in the grasp of the No. 14-ranked heavyweight in the world, Shamil Gaziev, who let go with a number of clinch strikes before the referee broke them up. With the two back in striking range, Brando Pericic started unloading countless power shots, wobbling Gaziev back to the cage. Gaziev continued to survive, throwing power right back in the face of Pericic, as both men absolutely slugged it out for the remainder of the first round. It was a difficult round to score, as each had their moments, but Pericic’s shots seemed to have a much bigger impact.
Round two was a continued throwdown from round one, with the heavyweights showing little regard for striking defense. Pericic started to take the lead in numbers, with his speed giving him a clear advantage on the feet. After stringing a few straights together, the “Balkan Bear” hurt Gaziev, finishing him off with a power right hand that crumbled the ranked heavyweight to the ground.
Brando Pericic moved to 7-1, earning his third straight knockout in three UFC appearances. Likely to have a number next to his name soon, Pericic called for a spot at UFC Serbia later this year.
Official Results: Brando Pericic def. Shamil Gaziev via R2 KO, 3:44
