The Prudential Center was charged with anticipation as UFC 302 delivered a thrilling night of fights, culminating in Islam Makhachev's triumphant defense of his lightweight title against Dustin Poirier. Makhachev secured his victory with a D’arce choke at 2:42 of Round 5, marking his third consecutive title defense and extending his winning streak to 14.
In the co-main event, former middleweight champion Sean Strickland outlasted Paulo Costa in a hard-fought split decision. Strickland's aggressive approach and consistent striking earned him scores of 49-46 and 50-45, keeping him in contention for another top-tier bout.
Kevin Holland brought the action early, defeating Michal Oleksiejczuk by technical submission (armbar) at 1:34 of Round 1. Holland's quick recovery from a knockdown and subsequent armbar showcased his resilience and skill, snapping a two-fight losing streak.
Other notable performances included Niko Price, who secured a unanimous decision win over Alex Morono in a grueling rematch, and Randy Brown, who out-struck Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos to earn a unanimous decision victory in the main card opener.
Main Card Results:
Islam Makhachev defeats Dustin Poirier by Submission (D’arce choke) at 2:42 of Round 5
Sean Strickland (46-49, 50-45) defeats Paulo Costa (49-46) by Split Decision
Kevin Holland defeats Michal Oleksiejczuk by Technical Submission (armbar) at 1:34 of Round 1
Niko Price (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) defeats Alex Morono by Unanimous Decision
Randy Brown (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) defeats Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos by Unanimous Decision
Preliminary Card Highlights:
Jailton Almeida defeats Alexandr Romanov by Submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:27 of Round 1
Grant Dawson (29-28, 30-27, 30-27) defeats Joe Solecki by Unanimous Decision
Jake Matthews (29-28, 29-28, 30-27) defeats Philip Rowe by Unanimous Decision
Bassil Hafez (30-27, 30-27, 29-28) defeats Mickey Gall by Unanimous Decision
Ailin Perez (30-27, 29-28, 29-28) defeats Joselyne Edwards by Unanimous Decision
Andre Lima (30-27, 30-27) defeats Mitch Raposo by Split Decision
The intensity and drama of UFC 302 left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the careers of Makhachev and other top fighters.
