Justin Salas defeated Anton Kuivanen by Unanimous decision. The judges scored the fight 30-27, 30-27, and 29-27.
To be honest, this was no a good fight. It was a fight between two top prospects but that doesn’t change the fact that neither fighter was impressive in their UFC debuts. The first round saw Anton Kuivanen back Salas up with punches and just more activity keeping the Grudge Gym member on his toes. Round two was more of a competitive fight with Salas settling in and establishing his wrestling. Kuivanen remained a threat but wasn’t able to really push Salas around the cage as he did in round one.
The final round was Justin Salas’ best round. Finally finding his range at stand up, he was able to keep Kuivanen uncertain about when the fight would be taken to the ground. Salas hit a big double leg takedown that essentially sealed the fight for him.
Justin Salas successfully made his octagon debut. Anton Kuivanen will be brought back as he is still considered a blue chip prospect and the UFC always needs fighters for international cards.