MACAU, CHINA – NOVEMBER 23: (L-R) Muslim Salikhov of Russia punches Tune Kenan of China of their welterweight struggle in the course of the UFC Combat Night time occasion at Galaxy Area on November 23, 2024 in Macau, China. (Picture by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Chinese language welterweight Tune Kenan confronted off with veteran Muslim Salikhov at UFC Macau on Saturday.
Each fighters entered the night time of single wins; Kenan had gotten the higher of Ricky Glenn final trip, whereas Salikhov had defeated Santiago Ponzinibbio.
Salikhov is now 40 years previous and coming into his twelfth struggle within the UFC. The self proclaimed “King of Kung Fu” must choose up a win in hostile territory, to defeat Kenan in his native county.
Within the opening moments every fighter cautiously measured their opponent, with Salikhov touchdown a spinning again kick to the physique. Kennan landed a blistering straight proper hand that made Salikhov retreat to the fence. As soon as towards the cage, Salikhov was kneed within the groin stopping the motion momentarily.
Salikhov compelled the struggle again to the center, and landed a lead left hook. What occurred subsequent was a factor a magnificence: the unofficial Olympic Gold medalist in Sanda timed one of many cleanest spinning again kicks in UFC historical past. With a minute fifteen left within the first, Salikov spun round on one leg and delivered a devastating kick that separated Kenan from consciousness. An unbelievable efficiency for the Russian welterweight who added to his already spectacular spotlight reel.
In what was definitely a knockout of the yr contender, Salikhov now has many choices for what to do subsequent along with his profession. In an evening crammed with unbelievable knockouts and standout performances, Salikhov could have stole the present.
Official End result: Muslim Salikhov def. Tune Kenan by KO (spinning wheel kick), Spherical 1, 3:45
