Jack Jenkins victorious with Split Decision over Emmers | UFC Jacksonville

Australian fighter Jack Jenkins showcased his featherweight prowess at UFC Jacksonville in the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Carrying an impressive eight-fight win streak, Jenkins stepped into the octagon to face off against Jamall Emmers.

Having recently returned from an 18-month hiatus, Emmers made a memorable comeback by handing Khusein Askhabov his first career loss. With both fighters sizing each other up in the initial moments of the bout, Jenkins took charge, relentlessly pressuring Emmers and utilising his kicks to great effect, targeting both low and high areas. Despite Emmers enjoying a height and reach advantage, Jenkins found success in wearing him down with a combination of kicks.

Emmers displayed occasional bursts of explosiveness, employing stance switches and utilising long punches and body shots to keep Jenkins at a distance. Jenkins, however, remained undeterred, landing a series of body kicks and calf kicks that repeatedly found their mark.

Towards the end of the first round, Jenkins unfortunately suffered a low blow, causing a temporary break in the action.

In the second round, Jenkins returned with renewed determination, resuming his assault with low kicks and following them up with a well-placed hook to the head. Although a high kick missed its mark, the round witnessed an intense back-and-forth battle. Jenkins maintained his kicking advantage and displayed higher output, though his volume slightly decreased as the round progressed. Emmers, relying on his distance control, managed to land a solid right hand at the round’s conclusion. Yet, Jenkins countered with three unanswered kicks, underscoring his dominance.

In a late surge, Jenkins executed a takedown, only for Emmers to skilfully reverse the position, showcasing his own grappling abilities.

Into RD 3 we go! 👀 #UFCJacksonville pic.twitter.com/j41CmI0HOj

— UFC (@ufc) June 24, 2023

The third round witnessed a strategic shift from Emmers, who secured an early takedown. Spending a significant amount of time on top, Emmers attempted to control the situation, while Jenkins closed his guard briefly. The referee issued a warning to Emmers, urging him to stay active, but the Australian fighter couldn’t capitalize on the advantageous position. Eventually, they returned to a standing position. However, Jenkins wasted no time in bringing the fight back to the ground, although his control was short-lived as Emmers swiftly reversed the situation. As the fight progressed, Emmers’ decision not to focus on wrestling in the opening rounds became increasingly perplexing, given his proficiency on the ground.

While Emmers clearly claimed the third round, the victory ultimately eluded him on the scorecards. Jenkins emerged triumphant with a split decision, with the judges’ scores reading 27-30, 29-28, 29-28 in favour of the tenacious Australian who was paying +170 with top MMA betting sites.

Jack Jenkins, representing Australia with his exceptional skills and unyielding determination, solidified his position in the UFC featherweight division, adding another victory to his remarkable record.

Rumors suggest that Jack Jenkins is slated to fight at UFC 293 in Sydney on September 10th, generating excitement among fans. The event would provide a thrilling opportunity for the Australian fighter to showcase his skills in front of his hometown crowd, creating an electric atmosphere. With anticipation building, all eyes are on Jenkins as he prepares to make his mark once again.

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