UFC 269 results, highlights: Dominick Cruz focuses on early knockdown for decisive power ahead of Pedro Munhoz

Dominick Cruz’s win over Pedro Munhoz was decisive, but not without adversity. The veteran had to survive a knockdown early in their opening round UFC 269 Preliminary Match.

Cruz tripped in Round 1 resulting in a lightning strike from Munhoz that knocked the former champion out. Cruz managed to break away from the offensive and submissive efforts but clearly missed the opening frame of the match. Cruz (24-3) made better use of his trademark footwork in the ensuing two innings to strangle his powerful opponent. However, it was Cruz’s belligerence that really ensured he got the last two frames. “The Dominator” lands regularly on Munhoz, sitting down with combo punches and throws.

“Thanks to the referee, Marc Goddard, for giving me a chance to recover,” Cruz told Joe Rogan after the game – a blow to referee Keith Peterson, whom Cruz previously accused of referring badly. in the match against Cejudo. “It’s good to be back tonight.”

Munhoz (19-7, 1 NC) has now suffered consecutive defeats to two former UFC champions: Cruz and longtime featherweight player Jose Aldo. He is 2-4 for the last two years.

Cruz (24-3) now has her first win in five years. The old bantamweight king held decisive victories over Munhoz and Kenney after successive defeats to Henry Cejudo and Cody Garbrandt.

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