Khabib Nurmagomedov’s strategy in the first round was clear: Keep charging forward and then use the fence to your advantage in landing takedowns. Nurmagomedov controlled the center of the octagon and marched forward with a flurry of blocked strikes until Dos Anjos’ back was against the fence. That’s when Nurmagomedov would dip down and use brute strength to take Dos Anjos to the ground.

Nurmagomedov locked up the win by landing takedowns and staying JUST busy enough to not get stood up by the referee in rounds two and three. Dos Anjos was smothered and was given no room to work with. When Big John threatened to stand the fight up, Nurmagomedov would posture up and blast the grounded Dos Anjos with a punch or an elbow.

Khabib Nurmagomedov def. Rafael Dos Anjos by way of Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)