The UFC Shanghai co-main event on Saturday found Denise Gomes in enemy territory, taking on former title challenger Yan Xiaonan in strawweight action.
About two minutes into the opening frame, things opened up, with Gomes unleashing a volley of punches that forced Yan to retreat. A right hand kicked things off, tagging Yan on the side of the jaw before Gomes swarmed in. The Chinese fighter would recover, however, with the pair continuing to trade, the fight playing out on the feet with Yan mixing in kicks both low and to the body.
While Yan survived the early onslaught by Denise Gomes, the Brazilian would finish the job just a little bit later in the opening round. Gomes would step in and land a nasty elbow over the top, dropping Yan Xiaonan to her knees. That was followed by left and right hands, both punches connecting right on the button. Yan was out, and Gomes had a very impressive victory in the UFC Shanghai co-main event.
Ranked #9 (META)/#14 (Media) in the UFC’s official rankings, Gomes will be climbing at least a couple of spots this week. Having knocked off a former title challenger, she suggested she’s ready for whoever comes next as she works her way towards title contention.
Official Result: Denise Gomes def. Yan Xiaonan by TKO (elbow and punches), Round 1, 4:49
