Four more score UFC deals

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In the night’s first contest, Victor Martinez (13-4) scored an exciting decision win over Jacob Rosales (13-7) in a 15-minute slugfest.

Martinez moved forward quickly at the start, pumping a jab and adding right hands behind it. Rosales tried to change levels in the early going, but the action remained on the feet. While Rosales was the longer fighter, Martinez darted in and out of range with well-timed attacks. Rosales countered with a successful takedown, then slipping around to the back, but Martinez was able to maneuver up and away to reset in the center.

As the round carried on, both men continued to trade in close quarters. Both fighters found success with their jabs, and Rosales seemed to gain a bit of momentum as he started to be the one pulling the trigger first. In the closing seconds of the frame, a Rosales right hand sent his opponent crashing to the canvas, though Martinez did get back to his feet at the bell.

Rosales started quickly in the second, unleashing heavy punches and firing out a high kick, as well. Martinez returned to his jab, which found the mark repeatedly, and his corner begged for him to add more to the combinations. Rosales did scores with a brief takedown, but Martinez was quickly back on his feet and looking to continue punching.

Martinez’s corner implored him to push the pace as the two fighters continued to trade in the pocket. Martinez chopped at the legs a bit, and the two exchanged punches that seemed destined to put someone out cold. Rosales looked for the takedown again, but Martinez was up to the challenge, and he continued rattling off combinations until the bell.

Energy levels appeared high on both sides entering the final frame. Martinez was the one walking forward, but Martinez was always there to counter, as well as to defend the occasional takedown attempt. The two continued to rattle off punches that registered direct contact over and over again. Rosales never stopped moving forward, and he continued to deliver damage, even as he walked through punches to do it.

Martinez countered a late takedown attempt with a successful one of his own, and he ended the fight on top, punching away at the bell. In the end, Martinez was awarded a decision win, 29-28 on all three cards, and ultimately a UFC contract, as well.

Result: Victor Martinez def. Jacob Rosales via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Photos: Dana White’s Contender Series 40: Best photos from Las Vegas
Records: Jacob Rosales (13-7), Victor Martinez (13-4)
Division: Lightweight
Broadcast: ESPN+
Referee: Mike Beltran



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