Spectators at UFC Kansas City voiced their disapproval, booing Michel Pereira after a performance widely seen as uncharacteristic for the flamboyant fighter.
This event marked the UFC`s return to Kansas City after a two-year absence, featuring a stacked Fight Night card.
Among the main card bouts was a significant middleweight clash (185 lbs) between popular fighter Michel Pereira and Abus Magomedov.
Pereira is known for his thrilling and unpredictable fighting style, which often pushes the boundaries and sometimes risks fouls or disqualification.
Hoping to bounce back from a previous loss and end Magomedov`s three-fight winning streak, the Brazilian stepped into the octagon.
Walkout Dance Draws Early Criticism for Pereira
True to his eccentric nature, Pereira`s pre-fight entrance included a choreographed dance routine, which seemed to irritate many fans in attendance.
Perhaps having used energy during his walkout, the Brazilian fighter started the match much slower than his typically frenetic pace.
Early in the first round, Magomedov, the German fighter, connected with several powerful strikes, including a significant left hook that briefly sent Pereira to the canvas.
Magomedov then utilized his grappling skills, securing a takedown near the cage and attempting a submission while controlling Pereira from behind.
The second round saw a similar pattern; the popular fighter remained unusually passive, allowing Magomedov to land strikes with relative ease. With roughly a minute remaining in the round, the crowd at UFC Kansas City started booing, frustrated by the lack of significant action from both fighters.
Heading into the final round, Pereira appeared to increase his urgency, possibly aware he was likely behind on the scorecards after two subdued rounds.
However, even with a seemingly conserved energy reserve, Pereira struggled to land impactful strikes. Magomedov continued to control the action, landing significant blows, including one that wobbled Pereira with about 90 seconds left.
Ultimately, Abus Magomedov secured a unanimous decision victory, extending his winning streak to four and positioning himself nearer to the middleweight rankings.
Pereira`s Future in the UFC Uncertain After Loss
Coming off a controversial walkout dance and a performance that earned him boos from the departing crowd, Michel Pereira`s standing in the UFC appears precarious.
The 31-year-old is now facing a two-fight skid, and another defeat in his next bout could potentially lead to his departure from the organization.
In contrast, Abus Magomedov demonstrated his readiness to compete against ranked middleweights, building on his experience which included a quick step up to face Sean Strickland earlier in his UFC tenure.
