Royval upsets Taira in brilliant UFC Vegas 98 main event
Brandon Royval edged out Tatsuro Taira by split decision in the main event of UFC Vegas 98 on Sunday afternoon (AEST), with the flyweight defying the odds to win his second headliner in a row.
Royval was a moderate underdog at UFC betting sites, with the American paying +250 at Neds Bookmaker compared to Taira’s -333.33.
The No.1 contender proved he is worthy of his position in the rankings, however, upping his intensity in the fifth round against his previously 16-0 opponent.
It was a clash that ebbed and flowed, with Royval landing more significant strikes and accruing more damage on Taira’s face, while the Japanese fighter was superior on the mat and dominated large swathes of the bout.
The immediate aftermath of the fight had other fighters taking to social media to praise the effort of the two flyweights, and raise the prospect of the clash being a Fight of the Year contender.
“Modern classic. Those boys were putting on a show,” posted UFC featherweight Andre Fili.
“One of the best fights of the year, respect to both of ‘em,” said lightweight Terrance McKinney.
“Instant classic, Royval vs Taira,” said Mike Malott.
“Royval wins 3-2. Great fight. Taira has a bright future but tonight belongs to Brandon Royval,” posted former UFC flyweight and bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo.
After the victory, Royval spoke highly of his opponent, asserting that Taira has the potential to be champion of the division one day.
“I thought I was going to take him to school,” he said.
“I thought I was going to take him out in the first round.
“Taira, if you ever need anything, I’m here for you.
“You’re going to become a champion someday.
“I’ll be there for you, bro.
“I have beat everybody in the top five.
“I get that title shot next.”
Royval’s next opponent is not known, but the American did make it clear after defeating Taira that he would be willing to be a backup for the clash between Brandon Moreno and Amir Albazi, the No.2 and No.3 contenders, on November 2 at UFC Edmonton.
