UFC 297 thrilled fans at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto with an action-packed night of fights. The main event saw Sean Strickland (28-6 MMA, 15-6 UFC) defending his middleweight title against the undefeated Dricus Du Plessis (21-2 MMA, 7-0 UFC). The co-feature showcased a battle for the vacant women’s bantamweight title, where Raquel Pennington (16-8 MMA, 13-5 UFC) emerged victorious against Mayra Bueno Silva (10-3-1 MMA, 5-3-1 UFC).
Jimmy Flick vs. Malcolm Gordon
The night kicked off with a thrilling flyweight matchup between Jimmy Flick and Malcolm Gordon. Gordon started aggressively, pinning Flick against the cage. A takedown attempt by Gordon saw Flick locking in a triangle choke, but the round ended with Gordon escaping. In the second round, Flick turned the tide, securing an arm triangle submission at 1:17, making a triumphant comeback.
Priscila Cachoeira vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius
The women's flyweight bout featured Priscila Cachoeira against Jasmine Jasudavicius. Jasudavicius dominated the first round with ground-and-pound, earning a 10-8 score. The second round saw Jasudavicius dropping Cachoeira with a huge straight right, eventually submitting her with an anaconda choke at 4:21 in the third round.
Yohan Lainesse vs. Sam Patterson
Welterweights Yohan Lainesse and Sam Patterson wasted no time, with Patterson securing a rear-naked choke submission at 2:03 in the first round, marking an impressive victory.
Gillian Robertson vs. Polyana Viana
The strawweight clash between Gillian Robertson and Polyana Viana showcased Robertson's dominance. In the first round, she moved to mount, attempted submissions, and delivered ground-and-pound. Robertson secured a TKO win in the second round at 3:12 with relentless striking.
Serhiy Sidey vs. Ramon Taveras
Bantamweights Serhiy Sidey and Ramon Taveras engaged in a back-and-forth battle. Taveras claimed a split decision victory (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) in a competitive fight that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Charles Jourdain vs. Sean Woodson
Featherweights Charles Jourdain and Sean Woodson engaged in a striking battle. Woodson secured a split decision victory (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) in a closely contested matchup.
Garrett Armfield vs. Brad Katona
The bantamweight bout between Garrett Armfield and Brad Katona saw Armfield emerging victorious with a unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) after a competitive three-round fight.
Arnold Allen vs. Movsar Evloev
Featherweights Arnold Allen and Movsar Evloev engaged in a tactical battle. Evloev secured a unanimous decision victory (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) with his grappling prowess.
Marc-Andre Barriault vs. Chris Curtis
Middleweights Marc-Andre Barriault and Chris Curtis faced off, with Curtis securing a split decision victory (30-27, 28-29, 29-28) in a closely contested bout.
Neil Magny vs. Mike Malott
Welterweights Neil Magny and Mike Malott delivered an unforgettable showdown. After facing adversity, Magny secured a buzzer-beating TKO victory at 4:43 in the third round, showcasing his resilience.
Raquel Pennington vs. Mayra Bueno Silva
In the co-main event, Raquel Pennington and Mayra Bueno Silva battled for the vacant women's bantamweight title. Pennington's strategic approach earned her a unanimous decision victory (49-46, 49-46, 49-45).
Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis
The main event featured a clash for the middleweight title between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis. Strickland's sharp jabs dominated the early rounds, but Du Plessis fought back with determination. The fight went the distance, with Du Plessis earning a unanimous decision victory.
In conclusion, UFC 297 delivered a night of unforgettable moments, with fighters showcasing their skills, resilience, and determination in the pursuit of victory. The event further solidified the UFC's reputation for providing top-tier mixed martial arts action.