A middleweight number one contenders bout took place on the UFC 194 main card when Ronaldo Souza (22-4 MMA) squared off with Yoel Romero (11-1 MMA).

Romero opens up with a heavy kick to the body of Souza. “Jacare” is pressing forward and throwing punches. Romero moving well and utilizing some serious head movement. Huge spinning back fist from Romero lands and drops Souza. Big shots from guard by Romero. Souza is in all kinds of trouble. Massive left hand from guard lands flush on the chin of “Jacare”. Huge elbows now. Souza attempts an armbar but Romero takes his back to finish off round one.

Round two begins and both fighters seem more cautious to start. Souza dives in for a takedown but Romero is able to sprawl and keep the fight standing. Souza fighting hard for a takedown but Romero grabs the fence and is able to switch to a sweep. The referee saw the fence grab and tells the fighters to stand back up. No point was taken from Romero. Good right hand from “Jacare” lands flush. Romero answers with a left hook but clearly looks tired towards the end of round two. A big leg kick lands inside from Romero. The horn sounds to end round two.

Round three begins and Romero opens with a good left hand. Souza responds with a leg kick. The fighters trade punches. Romero lands another good left and Souza again counters with a leg kick. Big right hand from Souza, and he follows up with some more huge shots. “Jacare” moves in and scores a takedown. He moves to half guard and begins landing some solid right hands. “Jacare” is peppering Romero with punches but “The Soldier of God” is taking the punishment. Under a minute to go and Souza is pushing to get to mount. Romero is defending well using wrist control. Yoel returns to his feet right before the final horn.

Yoel Romero defeats Ronaldo Souza via split-decision (29-27, 28-29, 29-28)