UFC 185 reshaped the lightweight and women’s strawweight divisions with decisive championship performances. This event stands as a pivotal moment where new champions were crowned and legacies were firmly established.
As one of the most action-packed cards in UFC history, UFC 185 delivered finishes, rivalries, and defining performances that continue to influence fight discussions today.
| Champion | Division | Method | Round | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eddie Alvarez | Lightweight | TKO (punches) | 1 | Defeated Donald Cerrone |
| Carla Esparza | Women's Strawweight | Submission (rear-naked choke) | 3 | Defeated Joanna Jędrzejczyk |
| Rafael dos Anjos | Lightweight | Decision (unanimous) | 5 | Defeated Anthony Johnson |
| Tim Elliott | Flyweight | Decision (split) | 3 | Defeated Dustin Ortiz |
UFC 185 Lightweight Championship Breakdown
Eddie Alvarez dominant title capture
Eddie Alvarez stunned the division by stopping Donald Cerrone inside the first round with a relentless pace and precise striking. His performance announced a new top contender at lightweight.
Rafael dos Anjos vs Anthony Johnson classic
The five-round war between Rafael dos Anjos and Anthony Johnson showcased elite grappling and cardio. Dos Anjos earned a hard-fought unanimous decision, setting up a future title shot against Alvarez.
Women's Strawweight Title Storyline
Carla Esparza strategic grappling mastery
Carla Esparza dethroned the striking queen Joanna Jędrzejczyk by staying calm on the mat and securing a deep rear-naked choke in the third round. Her victory proved that elite submission skills could overcome elite stand-up.
Champ vs Champion stylistic warfare
The bout illustrated the tension between pure BJJ precision and polished Muay Thai, a narrative that defined women’s strawweight for years following UFC 185.
Fight Card Depth and Undercard Impact
Flyweight title eliminator and rising contenders
Tim Elliott’s split decision win over Dustin Ortiz served as a statement for division depth, while other bouts advanced storylines and set up future main events across the 155, 145, and 170 pound divisions.
Legacy and Key Takeaways
- UFC 185 crowned champions who defined division styles for years.
- Eddie Alvarez and Carla Esparza set new standards at lightweight and strawweight.
- The card depth created lasting rivalries and elevated mid-card matchups.
- Submission grappling played a decisive role in shaping outcomes.
- Future title shots and storylines were directly influenced by performances here.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who won the lightweight title at UFC 185?
Eddie Alvarez won the lightweight title by TKO in round one against Donald Cerrone.
How did Carla Esparza win the women's strawweight title?
Carla Esparza submitted Joanna Jędrzejczyk with a rear-naked choke in the third round.
What was the main event flyweight bout result?
Tim Elliott defeated Dustin Ortiz by split decision in a closely contested three rounds.
Which fight delivered the most strategic grappling demonstration?
The Carla Esparza versus Joanna Jędrzejczyk title fight showcased elite grappling strategy and composure under pressure.