Team Cormier took hold of the lead in the The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) competition after a dazzling flyweight contest between two undefeated heavy-hitters in Tuesday night’s episode.
Third TUF Episode Marked Historic Debut for Fighter From India
Returning to the flyweight category for the third week of the show, touted strikers Imanol Rodriguez and Arshiyan Memon faced off in the second 125-lb bout of the 33rd TUF season.
Emerging as the latest in a long line of talented prospects coming from Mexico, Rodriguez has compiled an impressive 5-0 professional record prior to TUF since making his debut in 2022. Collecting all finishes across those five fights, “Hitman” has never realized a third round, with only two of those scraps going past the first.
Much in the same vein as his North American foe, Memon has also stopped all of his opposition in all of his seven cage appearances as a professional. Possessing a strong background in kickboxing, the Indian had previously captured several national championships before making the transition to mixed martial arts in 2016. With his inclusion in the flyweight tournament, Memon stands as the first athlete from his country to compete in the TUF house in an episode which saw Colby Covington make an appearance during the program.
Flyweight Barnburner Produces Stunning First-Round Stoppage on TUF
From the word go, Rodriguez closed the distance on Memon, staying inside the pocket to take away the Indian’s four inch reach advantage. While a low blow would halt the action momentarily, the Mexican was quick to resume his onslaught.
Finding a strong body shot, Rodriguez caused Memon to stumble to the canvas, though the older competitor was able to recover after delivering a series of up kicks. Urging his adversary on after taking a few blows, Memon was soon rocked by a solid punch from Rodriguez, who followed up with a barrage of similar hits before the fight was called off.
Gaining the lead for his team with an incredible finish, Rodriguez put his team ahead in the TUF competition 2-1. He also handed Team Cormier’s first victory in the 125-lb bracket after they initially dropped the ball in the opening episode of the show.
