Though taking a fight against an unranked fighter was a risk, Brendan Allen delivered a statement victory over Edmen Shahbazyan in the UFC Vegas 118 co-main event, solidifying his status in the UFC middleweight title picture.
Allen got off to a strong start, controlling things with his striking. He continued to try to pressure, but Shahbazyan ensured Allen couldn’t get a takedown. The “Golden Boy” then scored multiple strong shots in the closing stages of round one.
The two continued to trade in the second, but Allen’s power picked up, landing some harsh blows that did damage to Shahbazyan. That story remained in the third, as Allen’s punching power left Shahbazyan a bloody mess.
Allen ultimately came away with the decision win, dropping just one round on one judge’s scorecard and sweeping on the other two.
Brendan Allen Beats, Bloodies Edmen Shahabzyan At UFC Vegas 118
Allen has now won three straight and 10 of his last 12 fights. He came into this bout off a short-notice victory over Reinier de Ridder in the UFC Vancouver main event this past October.
Shahbazyan sees a three-fight win streak snapped with this defeat.
