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Arnold Allen is back in the win column.
The Englishman headlined UFC Vegas 117 on Saturday night, facing rising contender Melquizael Costa in a pivotal featherweight clash. Having lost three of his last four bouts, Allen was under pressure against a fighter riding a six-fight winning streak. However, the 32-year-old remained unfazed, showcasing aggression and veteran savvy to outmaneuver Costa over 25 minutes.
Early in the first round, Allen even dropped Costa with a left hook, then swarmed him with punches and elbows. Costa responded by landing numerous kicks, but Allen simply absorbed the attacks and continued to connect with his powerful left hand.
As the fight entered the championship rounds, Allen's veteran experience shone through. He began to seamlessly blend various martial arts disciplines while consistently landing precise strikes with his left.
Following the bout, Allen expressed his frustration at another decision victory and voiced his desire for a rematch with Movsar Evloev for the featherweight title.
"Screw these decisions, man," Allen said in his post-fight interview. "I've been robbed so many times by these decisions, and I'm sick of it. I thought they were going to screw me over again. But, damn it, I've got some rematches to settle. Movsar, you won that title, I want my ass back, boy!"
Catch the full results from the UFC Vegas 117 main card below.
Doo Ho Choi def. Daniel Santos via TKO – Round 2, 4:29
Juan Diaz def. Malcolm Wellmaker via Submission (RNC) – Round 2, 4:08
Modestas Bukauskas def. Christian Edwards via Split Decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Bernardo Sopaj def. Timothy Kumaba via Submission (RNC) – Round 2, 2:25
Kaos Williams def. Nikolay Veretennikov via TKO – Round 1, 3:31
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