Ryan Spann wants to grow streak to promotion’s longest after UFC 249

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Ryan Spann beat Sam Alvey with a split decision Saturday to open the preliminary card at UFC 249 in Jacksonville, Fla.

Take a look inside the fight with Spann, who won for the eighth straight time and stayed perfect in the UFC at 4-0.

Result: Ryan Spann def. Sam Alvey via split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)
Updated records: Spann (18-5 MMA, 4-0 UFC), Alvey (33-14 MMA, 10-9 UFC)
Key stat: Alvey outstruck Spann 103-52, but Spann landed a pair of key takedowns.

Spann on the fight’s key moment

“It feels good to come in and win. That’s the goal in the first place – get the win. I wanted to look more imposing, but overall I’m happy to get the win – just disappointed in the way we got it. But we’re back.”

Spann on a potentially bright future at light heavyweight

“It’s cool to be honored and be mentioned with the champion of the division. We didn’t get the win we wanted to, but we are working with the best. COVID slowed us down a little, but it can’t stop us. There’s a few things we could have done better, but overall I’m happy with it.”

Spann on what he wants next

“I want to dominate everyone in this division. I want to have the most dominant streak – not just in my division, but in the whole UFC. I just need to come in and be me, have fun and take over like we can.”

To hear more from Spann, check out the video of the full post-fight interview above.