The first of a slew of championship bouts as part of the UFC’s International Fight Week took place at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada, in the main event of UFC Fight Night 90. Rafael dos Anjos put his lightweight title on the line against Eddie Alvarez, who was looking to add a UFC lightweight championship to his extensive list of accomplishments, which included holding the Bellator belt for many years. A great atmosphere was on hand for this headliner.
Early leg kick by Alvarez to begin the fight. The champion answered back with a left from his southpaw stance. Inside leg kick by RDA as chants of “EDDIE!” bellowed out in the arena. Big uppercut by RDA momentarily silenced Eddie’s supporters. Dos Anjos went high with a kick but Eddie partially blocked it. Alvarez shot for a takedown but RDA countered with a head lock. He lost his grip but exited with a flush knee. Stuffed takedown attempt by the champion, who countered with his own takedown which Eddie stuffed. Good head kick by Alvarez. Big right hand wobbled dos Anjos. Alvarez going for the kill. Massive combinations by Eddit! RDA out on his feet. Flying knee by Alvarez but he missed and fell on his back. RDA momentarily on top but clearly still dazed. Alvarez gets back to his feet and RDA is just getting battered. Walloping, thumping shots coming from all angles. Herb Dean takes a look at RDA who is getting annihilated and Herb Dean and stops it standing. NEW LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION!!!
Official result: Eddie Alvarez (28-4) def. Rafael dos Anjos (25-8) via TKO (punches) at 3:49 of round 1 to become the NEW UFC lightweight champion
Alvarez is the first fighter in MMA history to win both Bellator and UFC titles, and that doesn’t even begin to describe just how much Alvarez has accomplished over the years. He is one of the greatest 155ers the sport has ever seen. Rafael dos Anjos’ reign as champion lasts just 1 defense, and Brazil (for at least a day) has zero UFC champions on its roster.
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