Former middleweight title challenger Marvin Vettori kicks off the UFC 286 PPV card with Georgia’s Roman Dolidze at the O2 Arena on Saturday.
Italy’s Vettori, since 2017, has lost only to Israel Adesanya (twice) and in his most recent bout to former champion Robert Whitaker. Dolliser, unbeaten in her last four fights, entered the night with a win over Sweden’s Jack Hermansson.
Both opened fire, with Vitori utilizing various leg kicks and Dolliser relying on quick counterhooks to slow Vitori’s attack. Dolidze made the better of a late exchange in the first innings and likely won the round on all three judges’ scorecards.
The second round was much the same, with Dolize just one step ahead of Vittorio in the field of strikes. Dolisher implemented a level change, the first play of the bout, hoping to open up some angles for his right-hand overhand. Vettori, however, was the more active fighter and he may have stolen the second set from his opponent.
Vitori was declared the winner by unanimous decision after an intense third round – which may have come as a surprise to some.
The “Italian Dream” improved to 18-6 and was back in the win after beating Robert Whittaker earlier in his run. It will be interesting to see what the UFC does next with Vettori, as he was ranked No. 4 ahead of Saturday’s victory, even though he has fought most of the top contenders at middleweight.
Roman Dolidze is 12-2 down and will leave London in bad taste after a very good performance.
Official result: Marvin Vettori def. Roman Dorize won by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
