UFC Vegas 96: Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Gerald Meerschaert: Live round-by-round updates

Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Gerald Meerschaert at middleweight will kick off the main card of UFC Vegas 96.

Meerschaert's (36-17) UFC career has been a mixed bag. He is 2-3 in his last five and, despite being in the promotion since 2016, is yet to get a win over any of the current divisional top 15.

However, 'GM3' has had a few good runs in the promotion. In 2021, the 36-year-old held a three-fight win streak.

The other half of the event, Shahbazyan's (13-4) initial days in the UFC were spectacular. The 'Dana White's Contender Series' alum won his first four fights before incurring a loss.

However, the Californian's performances since then have left a lot to be desired. 'The Golden Boy' is also 2-3 in his last five.

Nevertheless, both men have won their most recent fights and would be hoping to continue winning ways this weekend.

Per the promotion's official website, 'The Golden Boy' is a -355 favorite over Meerschaert for the matchup.

Check out the UFC Vegas 96 fighter face-offs below:

The main card of the event is set to kick off at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT. Stick with Sportskeeda for live coverage and play-by-play updates from the event.

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UFC Vegas 96: Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Gerald Meerschaert

Round 1

'GM3' opens up with an inside low kick. 'The Golden Boy' cuts off the cage and traps his opponent near the wall and connects with a crisp one-two. Shahbazyan tries to level change and 'GM3' stuffs it.

A right hand to the body and then to the head connects for Shahbazyan. 'The Golden Boy' is ripping to the body and it's starting to see an effect. A head kick momentarily stuns Meerschaert.

'The Golden Boy' is initiating most encounters and clearly has the speed advantage. 'GM3' is constantly being backed up to the cage wall, forcing him to fight on the back foot.

An accidental body shot from 'GM3' stops the fight. As the fight restarts, Shahbazyan is back on the offensive. A jab on the chin connects for 'The Golden Boy'. He continues his barrage with a few more punches.

Our score: 10-9 Shahbazyan

Round 2

Meerschaert tries to initiate forward pressure. 'GM3' trips and falls after connecting with a body kick. 'The Golden Boy' connects with a left hook to the body which sends his opponent to the canvas. Shahbazyan pounces on his foe and unloads a flurry of body shots.

'The Golden Boy' fails to get the finish, but he gets a full mount. Shahbazyan lets his opponent get back up to the feet. An uppercut-left hook combo lands for Meerschaert. A left hand lands for 'The Golden Boy'.

Meerschaert shoots for a takedown. He gets it. Thereafter, he locks in a head and arm choke. Wow!!! It's tight. 'The Golden Boy' taps.

Official result: Gerald Meerschaert def. Edmen Shahbazyan via submission. (Arm triangle 4:12 of Round 2)

Watch Gerald Meerschaert celebrate his win at UFC Vegas 96 below: