UFC 302 is up and underway and we have seen a fair few exciting fights. That said, there has been a lack of finishes with most of the fights going down to the wire for a decision. As such, seeing that the co-main event features Sean Strickland and Paulo Costa, two highly sought-after fighters on the roster.
For those unaware, Sean Strickland made his return to the Octagon for the first time since his controversial title loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 297 earlier this year. With many suggesting that Strickland won the fight, the result is the result and he will need to work his way back to the rematch or otherwise. Facing him is the Brazilian brawler, Paulo Costa.
These guys don’t plan on taking any steps back 🤜🤛@SStricklandMMA vs @BorrachinhaMMA
[ #UFC302 is LIVE now on @ESPNPlus PPV 📺 ] pic.twitter.com/31lNxHWvIF
— UFC (@ufc) June 2, 2024
Famed for his social media shenanigans, and unserious personality, Costa is still a damn good fighter and rocked Robert Whittaker badly in his last fight at UFC 298. Despite the decision loss, fans were pleased to see ‘Borrachinha’ back in action, and having him take on Strickland is bound to result in a good watch. Notably, the fight was placed as a 5-round co-main event, and effectively a #1 contender fight according to both fighters.
Sean Strickland dominated Paulo Costa over 5 rounds
Right off the rip, the fight started with Sean Strickland coming forward in his signature Philly shell stance, with a heavy body kick approach. Whilst we have seen Sean use the same stance in the past, an improvement to the same has been the use of the teep down the middle to keep his man away, especially when it’s a heavy hitter like Costa. For the most part, it has worked wonders, keeping the Brazilian on the backfoot.
Whilst the pressure has been mostly with the front kicks to the gut and stomach of Costa, a stiff jab in Round 2 fully secured the round for Strickland. Whilst Paulo Costa has been loading up for the big shot, his spinning wheel kick seems quite telegraphed to say the least. That said, being on the backfoot has clearly affected the Brazilian’s momentum, and owing to Strickland’s prowess in 5 rounders, he’s easily able to manage the pace as well.
Dominate performance from @SStricklandMMA tonight 👏
He earns the split decision victory at #UFC302 pic.twitter.com/8E8ONYYciG
— UFC (@ufc) June 2, 2024
Notably, Round 4 was Sean Strickland‘s best offering and effectively a big shutout. Towards the end, Costa finally managed to catch his breath and started Round 5 much better, however, one can’t help but feel it’s too little too late. Further, Strickland’s flurry to close out the fight, where he even managed to knock down Costa effectively sealed the fight in his favor dispelling all doubt.
Sean Strickland makes his case for a title rematch next
All things considered, it was expected that Sean Strickland would be declared the winner before the scorecards were read out. Initially, everyone, including Strickland got the shock of their life when the first scorecard read out 49-46 in favor of Paulo Costa. That said, the subsequent cards read 50-45, and 49-46 in favor of the former champ, restoring all order and balance.
Understandably a cause for celebration, Strickland immediately darted out of the Octagon to let his admiration for Donald Trump be known. With teammate Chris Curtis capitalizing on the moment and getting a good picture of them as well, it is safe to say that Sean won’t be minding the odd scorecard too much. In his post-fight interview, Sean let his thoughts be known:
“It was a boring fight man, sorry guys. That Brazilian goes backward fast, he’s hard to catch, I’m not known for being athletic but, I tried, you guys saw I wanted to do a little bit more but I tried. I thought we were gonna have war, I thought we were gonna fight, I don’t know what happened to Costa. He’s a man bro, he represents America, I respect you for that but, don’t back him next time, please.”
“I wanna fight for the belt, hey! I was a company man, I fought a rank 7 guy, get me it now, I did it for you guys, gimme that title shot.”
Lastly, Sean Strickland offered further praise to Donald Trump before taking his leave. All in all, it is clear that Sean wants the shot at the title next. Having kept his #1 contender spot for now, Sean makes a good case for himself to face the winner of Dricus du Plessis and Israel Adesanya later this year. Elsewhere, Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev will likely determine the other #1 contender later this month.