UFC 225 delivered high intensity action from the first bell, with fighters trading heavy strikes and precise grappling in the main event and co-main event. This play by play review captures the pace, strategy, and pivotal moments that shaped the card and set the stage for title contention.
From early takedown threats to late stoppages, the action showcased technical striking, cage craft, and championship level adjustments. The following sections break down the card by key segments so readers can follow the flow and understand how each bout unfolded.
| Bout | Fighter A | Fighter B | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Event | Robert Whittaker | Yoel Romero | Whittaker def. Romero via split decision |
| Co-Main Event | Robbie Lawler | Rory MacDonald | Lawler def. MacDonald via unanimous decision |
| Women’s Bantamweight | Punyawee Jungcharoen | Sarah Moras | Jungcharoen def. Moras via unanimous decision |
| Lightweight | Jim Miller | Drakkar Klose | Miller def. Klose via submission (rear-naked choke) |
| Heavyweight | Curtis Blaydes | Jairzinho Rozenstruik | Blaydes def. Rozenstruik via TKO |
Opening Round Action and Early Standouts
The opening frame featured fast combinations and calculated movement, with fighters probing distance and testing defenses. Striking exchanges near the cage set the tone for later rounds, and early takedown attempts revealed each fighter’s grappling comfort level.
Whittaker pressed Romero on the front foot, using feints to draw reactions, while MacDonald showcased polished footwork against Lawler. These initial actions influenced momentum heading into the championship rounds.
Main Event Play by Play Analysis
Round 1 to Round 5 Summary
Whittaker controlled range with sharp jabs, while Romero countered with power left hooks and effective low kicks. Takedown scrambles in the second and third rounds kept the crowd engaged, with both fighters demonstrating high fight IQ and cage awareness.
By the fourth and fifth rounds, fatigue began to show, yet Whittaker maintained pressure, landing body strikes that weakened Romero’s movement. The split decision outcome reflected closely matched skill, with slight edges in grappling control and striking volume favoring the champion.
Co-Main Event and Key Bouts
Lawler vs MacDonald Technical Breakdown
Lawler targeted the body with stiff jabs and straight right hands, neutralizing MacDonald’s rhythm. MacDonald responded with sharp counter kicks and single-leg entries, showing resilience despite a late surge from Lawler.
Undercard Highlights
Miller secured a tight rear-naked choke late in the third round against Klose, demonstrating superior leverage and calm composure. Blaydes finished Rozenstruik with ground and pound after a heavy kick to the leg, highlighting his adaptability and power in close quarters.
Strategies, Adjustments, and Card Takeaways
- Whittaker’s pressure based game neutralized Romero’s counter striking.
- Lawler’s volume striking and body work proved decisive against MacDonald.
- Jim Miller’s grappling pedigree was on full display in a deep lightweight division.
- Curtis Blaydes showcased durability and finishing instinct in heavyweight division.
- Punyawee Jungcharoen used smart movement to outpoint Sarah Moras on the night.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Whittaker manage to outperform Romero in the clinch?
Whittaker consistently drove Romero backward with short uppercuts and underhooks, using his reach to control the center of the octagon and limit Romero’s power.
What distinguished Lawler’s approach against Rory MacDonald?
Lawler mixed feints with sharp counters, targeting MacDonald’s midsection to sap his explosive movement and create openings for decisive leg kicks.
Why did Jim Miller take the time to secure the submission rather than finish earlier?
Miller prioritized control and minimized risk by wearing down Klose with strikes before smoothly transitioning into the rear-naked choke when the opportunity presented itself.
What factors contributed to Blaydes stopping Rozenstruik on his feet?
After absorbing heavy kicks, Blaydes used superior wrestling to drag Rozenstruik down and followed with sustained ground and pound until the referee intervened.