Before the Fight
Cody Garbrandt entered UFC 326 hoping to end a two-fight losing streak, having suffered defeats to Deiveson Figueiredo and Raoni Barcelos. The stakes were high for Garbrandt, who needed a win to regain momentum in his career.
Decisive Moments
The fight against Xiao Long took an unexpected turn when Garbrandt suffered three low blows, leading to a moment where he vomited in the octagon. Despite these challenges, Garbrandt showcased resilience and skill, ultimately winning the match by unanimous decision with all judges scoring it 28-27 in his favor.
Immediate Effects
Xiao Long faced significant setbacks during the bout, receiving two point deductions for the low blows he inflicted. This double-point deduction shifted the fight’s outcome dramatically, turning what could have been a win for Long into a unanimous decision loss.
Expert Perspectives
With this victory, Garbrandt improved his record to 15-7 in MMA and 10-7 in the UFC, marking a significant turnaround after his previous losses. In contrast, Xiao Long’s record fell to 27-11 in MMA and 1-3 in the UFC, reflecting the challenges he faced in the octagon.
Garbrandt’s performance at UFC 326 not only marked a comeback for him but also raised questions about the implications of low blows in mixed martial arts. The fight served as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the sport, with both fighters experiencing a dramatic shift in their paths following this bout.