Jonathan Micallef emerged victorious against Themba Gorimbo with a split decision win at UFC Perth.
Gorimbo, representing Zimbabwe, aimed to break a two-fight losing streak against Australia’s Jonathan Micallef.
Micallef’s Third Round Surge
The first round saw both fighters exchanging body kicks early. Gorimbo clinched but failed to secure a takedown, and found some success with his hands. Micallef continued to press forward, walking Gorimbo down.
A grappling exchange ensued, with Micallef eventually landing a takedown with over a minute remaining in the round. Gorimbo struggled to get back to his feet, finding himself in danger against the fence.
Micallef landed an early kick in the second round, answered by a flurry of strikes from Gorimbo. Gorimbo secured a takedown, but Micallef quickly returned to his feet. Micallef then reversed, chasing a single-leg takedown.
Gorimbo showed impressive balance. When the fighters went to the mat, Gorimbo ended up on top, maintaining that position for a significant portion of the round. Micallef briefly applied a triangle off his back. Micallef reversed with about 20 seconds to go. He tried to get active on top, but it probably wasn’t enough to steal back the round.
Split Decision Victory for Micallef
The third round determined the outcome, as Micallef clearly won the first and Gorimbo the second. Micallef’s team urged him to pursue a finish. The first half of the frame was fairly even.
Micallef unleashed a barrage of strikes in the final two minutes, backing Gorimbo against the fence. Gorimbo covered up under the pressure. Gorimbo fired back and attempted a takedown, but Micallef countered with a spinning back fist.
The official result was a split decision victory for Jonathan Micallef over Themba Gorimbo (28-29, 29-28, 29-28).
Micallef Acknowledges Room for Improvement
Following his win by split decision, Micallef conceded that he needs to improve. Micallef added that he thought he won the fight.