The UFC Apex in Las Vegas played host to a clash of styles this past weekend in the main event of UFC Vegas 93.
Tatsuro Taira, the undefeated Japanese prospect with a knack for finishes (three in five UFC fights), faced off against the seasoned Alex Perez. Perez, a UFC veteran since 2017, boasts a well-rounded skillset with a solid finishing rate split between knockouts and submissions.
While Perez has experience in the spotlight, including a title shot in 2020, this was Taira's biggest test yet, marking his first-ever main event appearance.
For those who missed the action, check out the Alex Perez vs. Tatsuro Taira fight highlights below:
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Both headliners enter the fight event venue:
Perez warming up ahead of the main event showdown:
Check out both fighters' walkout towards the cage below:
The opening round saw Perez establish early control, but Taira clawed his way back into the fight before an accidental eye poke disrupted his momentum. Perez capitalized, scoring a late takedown to edge out a close round.
Round two mirrored the first with another eye poke from Taira, earning him a stern warning from referee Herb Dean. This time, however, Taira pressed the takedown, securing a dominant position on Perez's back.
In a swift maneuver, Taira slammed Perez to the ground, who immediately reacted in pain. Recognizing the severity of the situation, Dean stopped the fight.
Medical personnel rushed into the octagon, and it became clear that Perez's injury was severe. He was carried out of the cage as the official result was announced: Tatsuro Taira def. Alex Perez via TKO (knee injury) at 2:59 of Round 2.