SALT LAKE CITY – Cesar Almeida largely dominated his UFC 307 bout Saturday in Salt Lake City, but much of the narrative coming out of the bout was surrounding the non-fighter in the cage.
Throughout the 15 minutes that resulted in a unanimous decision win for Almeida (6-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC), officiating of the bout vs. Ihor Potieria (20-7 MMA, 2-5 UFC) was called into question by many viewers including commentator Jon Anik.
Referee Dave Seljestad, a veteran referee from the Pete Suazo Utah Athletic Commission that regulated the event, witnessed and acknowledged several fouls throughout the bout and also quickly separated the fighters along the fence on multiple occasions.
For the victor, the officiating did not seem abnormal. Almeida acknowledged the two fighters were tired and said that could’ve lead to the judges’ decision.
“I think it’s because (we) were a little tired in the three rounds,” Almeida told MMA Junkie and other reporters at a post-fight news conference at Delta Center. “He tried this, to stop the fight. He keep it brief, but this is normal. This is MMA. The guy can make this several times wrestling in the middle of the fight. … It’s normal. The fans say this, but in the cage it’s very hard this fight.”
A win is a win for Almeida, who controlled Potieira for much of their middleweight bout. The victory was hugely important for Almeida as it bounced him back into the win column after a June split decision loss to Roman Kopylov.
“I’m so happy today and this night because I’m back to the win,” Almeida said. “This is very important for me. I have my own strategy for the fight. I’m keeping this game and distance and connecting the hands, kicks, a lot of kicks, and the arm of the guy and it worked. It was very, very nice.
As he spoke to reporters backstage, Almeida sported a black wrap on his right hand. He was unsure the extent of the damage and said he needs to see a physician. Whenever it is that he’s ready to return, Almeida suggested a ranked opponent be next.
“I’m back to the gym Monday,” Almeida said. “(I’ll be back in) December or January. It depends on my hand. … I don’t know. Maybe in the top 15. I feel ready.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 307.
