Brad Tavares is back in the win column once again with his decision over Gerald Meerschaert at UFC Vegas 105. And this win is just a little sweeter.
This win, Tavares' 16th in the UFC, ties UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping for the most Octagon victories at middleweight.
Tavares was the aggressor during the opening round, as Meerschaert stayed on the back foot and looked to land counterstrikes while looking for a takedown. Meerschaert could not find a way inside during the opening round, however. Tavares landed well with his boxing, including some notable significant strikes in the bout's final minute.
Tavares continued to work with his striking to start the second, but Meerschaert was able to pin him against the fence about a minute in. Tavares quickly worked his way off the fence, and while Meerschaert had a better performance (including another pin against the fence), Tavares still got the better of him striking wise. This included a solid one-two that caught Meerschaert's attention in the round's final minute.
Brad Tavares Ties Michael Bisping For Most UFC Middleweight Wins At UFC Vegas 105
Meerschaert tried for a takedown during the final round, and Meerschaert was able to grab a hold of him and control him with the two standing. Meerschaert attempted to break Tavares's balance, but Tavares fought back, with referee Mike Beltran forcing a break with about a minute left in the fight.
All three judges gave the fight 29-28 to Tavares.
This marked just Tavares' second win in his most recent six fights, bouncing back from losses against Gregory Rodrigues and Park Jun-yong last year. Tavares' only other win in this span came against Chris Weidman at UFC 292.
This is Meerschaert's second straight loss, getting submitted by Reiner de Ridder in his UFC debut back in November.