(ALSO SEE: Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Justin Gaethje, Rose Namajunas after UFC 274 title-fight losses?)
The final two fights of Saturday’s UFC 274 event at Footprint Center in Phoenix provided unusual post-fight narratives for different reasons.
In the main event, Charles Oliveira (33-8 MMA, 21-8 UFC) earned a first-round submission over Justin Gaethje (23-4 MMA, 6-4 UFC) in a thrilling lightweight fight. “Do Bronx” did not leave with gold, however, because he missed weight, causing the belt to become vacant. Still, though, Oliveira will stay a prominent part of the title picture as he will be one half of the next title bout.
The co-headliner, meanwhile, saw Carla Esparza (19-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) reclaim the strawweight title after more than seven years with a split decision win over Rose Namajunas (11-5 MMA, 9-4 UFC) in one of the most low-output title fights in the history of the promotion.
How should the UFC book the next title fights at 155 pound and 115 pounds? Watch the video above for thoughts and analysis on the future after UFC 274.
Sean Shelby’s Shoes: What’s next for Charles Oliveira, Carla Esparza after UFC 274 wins?