Cody Garbrandt was aiming to break a two-fight losing streak against Deiveson Figueiredo and Raoni Barcelos at UFC 326, held on March 7, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Fight Overview
In a closely contested match, Garbrandt faced off against Xiao Long, who had been performing well prior to this bout. Garbrandt’s performance was marked by resilience, as he suffered three low blows during the fight, which significantly impacted his ability to maintain control.
Despite these challenges, Garbrandt showcased his skills, notably dropping Long with a fierce elbow in the first two rounds. The fight saw a decisive moment when Long received two point deductions for his own low blows, which turned the tide in Garbrandt’s favor.
Decisive Moments
The final scorecards reflected a unanimous decision victory for Garbrandt, with all judges scoring the fight 28-27 in his favor. This outcome not only marked a return to form for Garbrandt but also highlighted the critical impact of the point deductions against Long.
Garbrandt’s victory improved his professional record to 15 wins and 7 losses in MMA, with a UFC record of 10-7. In contrast, Xiao Long’s record fell to 27 wins and 11 losses, with a disappointing 1-3 in the UFC.
Immediate Effects
Garbrandt’s win is a significant boost for his career, allowing him to regain momentum after a tough period. The fight’s aftermath saw Garbrandt visibly affected, even vomiting in the octagon due to the low blows he endured.
Expert Perspectives
Experts noted that the double-point deduction for Long transformed what could have been a certain win into a unanimous decision loss. This shift in the fight’s dynamics underscores the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a few critical moments can alter the outcome dramatically.
Garbrandt’s performance was characterized by aggression and determination, as he landed a combination that further solidified his lead in the later rounds. His ability to adapt and overcome adversity was praised by commentators and fans alike.