5 biggest takeaways from UFC on ESPN+ 24: What to think of Curtis Blaydes as a legit contender

What mattered most at UFC on ESPN+ 24 in Raleigh? Here are a few post-fight musings …

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1. Curtis Blaydes’ ‘Plan Z’ ain’t too shabby

It was no surprise that Curtis Blaydes was a winner over Junior Dos Santos in the main event. He was a roughly 3-to-1 betting favorite, but even his strongest supporters didn’t see it unfolding like that.

Not only did Blaydes stop Dos Santos with strikes, but he did so without getting a single takedown. All six of his attempts were denied, forcing him into what he labeled post-fight as “Plan Z.” He revealed he’s got some talent there, as well, landing solid shots before a massive one rocked Dos Santos and led to the second-round TKO.

Blaydes’ preferred method of victory still would’ve been to take down Dos Santos and batter him, he said, but that’s what was expected if the fight went his way. This performance was much more eye-opening, and it helps generate a better understanding of Blaydes as he continues to jockey for position in the heavyweight title picture.