UFC 295 Results, Highlights, Controversies, and the 30th Anniversary

UFC 295 electrified Madison Square Garden in New York City on Saturday, November 12, 2023, marking the spectacular 30th anniversary of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. This milestone event witnessed the emergence of two new UFC champions, surprising many with the thrilling UFC 295 results. The event became a fitting celebration of the UFC’s extraordinary journey over the past three decades.

In the headline bout, Alex Pereira secured a stunning knockout victory over Jiri Prochazka in Round 2, earning him the coveted title of UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Pereira now stands tall as the UFC’s latest two-division titleholder, showcasing the organization’s unwavering commitment to presenting the world’s best fighters, irrespective of weight class.

The co-main event saw Tom Aspinall’s rise as he clinched the interim UFC Heavyweight Championship with a spectacular first-round knockout against Sergei Pavlovich. Aspinall’s triumph not only crowned him as one of the UFC’s most promising young talents but also hinted at a luminous future for the organization.

Reflecting on its humble beginnings in 1993, the UFC has transformed from a controversial event with minimal rules into a global phenomenon with millions of dedicated fans worldwide. The journey has been remarkable, and UFC 295 highlighted the evolution and resilience that define the UFC’s legacy.

UFC 295 Results

Main Card Results

• Alex Pereira defeats Jiri Prochazka via second-round knockout (elbows and punches)
• Tom Aspinall defeats Sergei Pavlovich via first-round TKO (punches)
• Jessica Andrade defeats Mackenzie Dern via second-round TKO (punch)
• Benoit Saint-Denis defeats Matt Frevola via first-round knockout (head kick)
• Diego Lopes defeats Pat Sabatini via first-round TKO (punches)

Prelims Results

• Steve Erceg defeats Alessandro Costa via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
• Loopy Godinez defeats Tabatha Ricci via split decision (27-30, 29-28, 29-28)
• Mateusz Rebecki defeats Roosevelt Roberts via first-round verbal submission (armbar)
• Nazim Sadykhov vs. Viacheslav Borschev ends with a majority draw (29-28, 28-28, 28-28)

Alex Pereira vs Jiri Prochazka Results and Highlights

Alex Pereira has etched his name in UFC history, becoming the promotion’s ninth two-weight world champion. His journey to this historic title included a second-round TKO victory over Jiri Prochazka, securing the coveted light heavyweight belt.

The former middleweight champion, whose UFC debut unfolded at Madison Square Garden in 2021, returned to the iconic New York venue to make his mark once again. Pereira strategically dominated the match, dropping Prochazka early in the first round with powerful leg kicks, and relentlessly continued his assault with precision.

Despite Prochazka’s attempt at an early takedown in the first round, Pereira showcased resilience, countering with impactful strikes and regaining his footing before the final bell. Pereira’s calculated approach in the face of adversity highlighted his composure and tactical acumen.

Entering the second round, Pereira maintained his dominance, resuming his assault with leg kicks that compromised Prochazka’s movement. Just as Prochazka appeared to gain momentum, Pereira unleashed a sudden onslaught, rocking him with a right hand and ultimately flooring him with a left hook.

The finishing sequence saw Pereira follow up with a barrage of punches and elbows, prompting referee Marc Goddard to intervene and declare an end to the fight. Pereira’s masterful performance not only secured the title but showcased his ability to seize victory in spectacular fashion.

The Controversy in Pereira vs Prochazka UFC 295 Results

However, the conclusion of the fight sparked controversy, with Daniel Cormier and Joe Rogan expressing reservations about the referee’s decision. Both commentators, Cormier and Rogan, questioned the timing of the finish during the commentary.

“It felt a little fast, I’m not going to lie to you because Yuri got up pretty quick,” Cormier said.

“I’m not satisfied with that stoppage,” added Rogan, who admitted Prochazka looked “hurt” but was not convinced he was finished at that point.

Pereira’s Take on UFC 295 Results

Post-fight, Pereira stood firm in supporting the referee’s decision, asserting that it was the right call. Prochazka, displaying sportsmanship, concurred with the decision, acknowledging that he would have continued but admitting to being “out” after absorbing a brutal left hook.

“In the end I think it was right. I was out. But I will never stop… s*** happens. It doesn’t matter,” Prochazka said.

“No I’m not surprised,” Pereira said when asked about the stoppage post-fight.

“After the first left hook and then he took another one, I saw that he actually did not go to my legs. He fell down on my legs so I kept going to the finish. I don’t think it was a bad stop.”

In an unexpected turn, Pereira directed his attention to middleweight rival Israel Adesanya, issuing a challenge for him to move up to the light heavyweight division. This bold move hinted at potential future matchups and added an intriguing layer to Pereira’s post-fight statements.

“Hey Adesanya, come to daddy,” he said.

Jiri’s Take on UFC 295 Results

Jiri Procházka is not only a fantastic athlete, but also a huge professional. He has the character of a champion. He confirmed that by accepting the loss and congratulating his opponent on the win immediately after the match.

“In the end, I think it was right,” Prochazka said. “I was out.”

Procházka’s honesty, including admitting that he was out, endeared him to even more fans. His approach, devoid of excuses and unnecessary words, adds weight to his statements. Procházka’s straightforwardness and authenticity contribute to his popularity, making his words resonate strongly with those who appreciate his genuine and sportsmanlike demeanor.

In fact, he went a step further in addressing and ending the controversy, releasing a statement on his Instagram:

“It’s a huge motivation for me. Nothing else.”

“Referee Marc Goddard made the right decision. Maybe two, three or more seconds and it could have gone differently, but what happened happened. Other than that, watch me now. I’ll be back. Stronger than ever,” added a determined Prochazka.

Tom Aspinall vs Sergei Pavlovich

Tom Aspinall delivered a spectacular performance on short notice, securing the interim UFC heavyweight championship with remarkable efficiency at UFC 295 in New York City. Aspinall set a new record for his shortest average fight duration, showcasing his dominance in the octagon.

Stepping in on roughly two weeks’ notice after Jon Jones’ injury, Aspinall accepted the challenge against Pavlovich, who was initially the backup fighter for the main event. Aspinall, the third UFC champion representing England, demonstrated flawless skill in his eighth UFC appearance, excluding a previous knee injury against Curtis Blaydes.

Despite Pavlovich’s six consecutive wins by first-round knockout, Aspinall swiftly claimed the title of the heavyweight division’s premier knockout artist, finishing Pavlovich in just 69 seconds at Madison Square Garden.

Aspinall faced a clean right hand from Pavlovich early in the bout, but he responded with two powerful right hands to Pavlovich’s temple, ultimately securing the victory with a series of hammerfists. Referee Dan Miragliotta stepped in to stop the fight, solidifying Aspinall’s impressive interim title win.

Acknowledging the less-than-ideal circumstances for his first shot at UFC gold, Aspinall expressed that the risk was undoubtedly worth the reward. His exceptional performance further solidifies his position as a rising star in the heavyweight division.

“He’s a big, scary guy,” said Aspinall, who dedicated the win to his father in the cage. “I’ve never been this scared in my life as fighting this guy. But, you know what, I’ve got a lot of power, too, and I believe in myself.”

Securing the interim UFC heavyweight championship marked Tom Aspinall’s second consecutive victory since making a triumphant return from a one-year layoff due to knee surgery.

In addition to his recent title win, Aspinall notched another notable victory earlier this year against Marcin Tybura in July, showcasing his resilience and skill in the octagon. These back-to-back wins underscore Aspinall’s remarkable comeback and solidify his position as a rising force in the UFC heavyweight division.

Conclusion

UFC 295 at Madison Square Garden not only marked the UFC’s thrilling 30th anniversary but also celebrated the emergence of two new champions. Alex Pereira’s knockout victory over Jiri Prochazka secured the Light Heavyweight title, while Tom Aspinall claimed the interim Heavyweight title in just 69 seconds against Sergei Pavlovich.

The event stirred some controversy, with Cormier and Rogan questioning Pereira’s finish, adding an extra layer of excitement. Pereira’s challenge to Adesanya and Aspinall’s dominant comeback highlighted the night’s resilience and championship spirit. Overall, UFC 295 not only showcased the UFC’s continued growth but also hinted at an even brighter future for the promotion.