Needing a win to keep himself in the upper echelon of featherweight contenders, Arnold Allen delivered in style, nearly sweeping the scorecards in a win over Melquizael Costa in the UFC Vegas 117 main event.
Costa found success early with kicks to the body and scoring control on the ground. Allen, however, responded with his takedowns and boxing, landing strong combinations.
Allen’s boxing became key, working Costa over with the jab while putting together strong combinations and limiting Costa’s offense. Costa worked the body and looked for submission attempts on the ground, but they were no match for the pressure and defense of Allen, limiting Costa’s attack.
Allen’s positional pressure continued in the championship rounds, going on to take all three scorecards.
Arnold Allen Scores Decision Over Melquizael Costa At UFC Vegas 117
Allen started his MMA career 19-1. He entered this fight, however, having dropped three of his last four. He most recently dropped a decision to Jean Silva at UFC 325.
Costa sees a six-fight win streak snapped. He entered this bout off a finish of Dan Ige at UFC Houston in February.