Paul Craig’s introductory bout in the middleweight class at 185 pounds was an enthralling display, culminating in a decisive victory against a formidable adversary.
On Saturday’s UFC London main card event at The O2 Arena, Craig squared off against Andre Muniz in a gripping middleweight duel. The match started on a sedate note, but picked up pace in the second round. After receiving a severe headbutt from Muniz, Craig managed to reclaim control and ultimately subdued Muniz with a series of ground elbows, achieving a second-round TKO triumph.
Check out “Bearjew’s” relentless finish in the video link below.
RELATED
‘Stunning Display’: Experts Applaud Paul Craig’s Powerful Defeat of Andre Muniz in Middleweight Debut
UFC London Bonus: Paul Craig Earns Additional $50,000 for Spectacular Middleweight Debut
Following a heated face-off during the fighters’ introduction, the match commenced with long-range kickboxing for the initial couple of minutes, during which Muniz emerged victorious in some clashes. While Craig landed occasional body kicks, the first round was mostly filled with either missed swings or blocks. Towards the end of the initial round, Muniz caught a kick and successfully executed a takedown.
After a rather lackluster start, Craig surged at Muniz in the second round and accomplished a takedown, resulting in Muniz forming a seemingly tight triangle.
Craig skillfully wriggled out of that tight spot, but found Muniz on top, who delivered an unmistakable headbutt. The referee intervened to alter the position but didn’t deduct any points. This, however, didn’t impede Craig who countered with another takedown, full mount, and unleashed a flurry of elbows, leading to the stoppage.
This marked Craig’s ninth win inside the octagon in his promotional run of 16 fights. Conversely, this was Muniz’s second consecutive defeat after a winning streak of five in the UFC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Paul Craig’s Middleweight Debut
Who made their debut in the middleweight class at the UFC London event?
Paul Craig made his debut in the middleweight class at the UFC London event.
Against whom did Paul Craig make his middleweight debut?
Paul Craig made his middleweight debut against Andre Muniz at UFC London.
What was the outcome of Paul Craig’s debut in the middleweight class?
Paul Craig triumphed in his debut match in the middleweight class, securing a TKO victory against Andre Muniz in the second round.
How many career victories in the octagon has Paul Craig had?
As of his middleweight debut, Paul Craig has secured nine victories in the octagon during his 16-fight promotional run.
What was Andre Muniz’s performance history in the UFC prior to this match?
Prior to this match, Andre Muniz had won his first five fights in the UFC, but this loss to Paul Craig marked his second consecutive defeat.
More about Paul Craig’s Middleweight Debut
- Paul Craig’s Profile on UFC
- Andre Muniz’s Profile on UFC
- UFC London Event Overview
- MMA Fighting: UFC London
- MMA Statistics: Paul Craig vs. Andre Muniz
4 comments
don’t like the headbutt part. the ref should have done somethin about it. still, congrats to craig for the win!
Wow, Paul Craig really put on a show, didn’t he? Can’t wait to see what he does next in the middleweight division. Mad respect!!
honestly thought Muniz would have had this one after the 1st round, but Craig’s comeback was something else. man’s a beast.
Brutal stuff! Craig’s elbow barrage was sick, can’t believe Muniz survived that long. UFC at its finest.