Although it wasn’t a huge win, Manon Fiorot managed to get the most important victory of her career against Katlyn Hookagian in order to launch the UFC 280 main event.
The story of this fight was down to Chookagian’s ability to counter the Chookagian volume-striking attack while firing back with punches, kicks and well-timed strikes to win the second round. When the final horn sounded, the judges all scored the fight 29-28 for Fiorot, who moves to 10-1 in her career with the win.
“Yes that was what I expected, Fiorot stated about the fight. “I really think she wanted to wrestle me when I took the fight but maybe I need to wrestle more because I had one attempt and one takedown. I think everybody in the division and after will talk about Valentina [Shevchenko].”
Well known for her volume striking, Chookagian was active as always at the start of the fight with Fiorot looking to maintain her distance with a side kick that she employs so often. Chookagian also was quick on her feet, circling away from Fiorot and then unleashing rapid-fire punches.
Fiorot tried to be more aggressive in order to reduce Chookagian’s output, but it was still difficult for her to find a place to put many of her strikes. Although Chookagian was not a great accuracy, her activity was so high that Fiorot was unable to keep up.
Late in the second round, Fiorot finally started to stick a jab in Chookagian’s face as she began adjusting to Chookagian’s style. Chookagian was also caught off guard by Fiorot’s right hook.
Fiorot continued to pepper away with Chookagian looking to match her strike for strike. Although neither fighter managed to land cleanly, Fiorot was able to score a quick takedown. However Chookagian quickly got back on her feet.
Both fighters unleashed a lot of strikes in the closing seconds, but Fiorot landed more accurately than Chookagian. Although there wasn’t any serious injury, Fiorot connected with more strikes that Chookagian which helped her win.
A win over Chookagian is a huge accomplishment for Fiorot’s career but it’s tough to say her performance will result in a title shot against reigning UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko.
This website uses cookies.