Ilia Topuria picked up a win in his UFC debut while going to the third round for the first time in his career.
The featherweight prospect showcased his signature wrestling while engaging in a grueling battle with Youssef Zalal before earning a unanimous decision victory. All three judges scored the contest 29-28 with Topuria getting the win.
“When you got eight days’ notice, you’ve got to be ready,” Topuria said about his win at UFC Fight Island 5. “I didn’t have the time I would like but it is what it is.