The Final Verdict: Jan Blachowicz vs. Alex Pereira
One of the best PPVs of the year just closed its doors, and with only two decisions across the entire card, the judges were only needed a little throughout the card. However, that didn't stop a controversy from arising, as in the co-main event, Jan Blachowicz and Alex Pereira battled to a razor-close split decision. "Poatan" was awarded the win, but let's examine each round of the fight and break it down. Then we'll compare the judges' scorecards to the Verdict Scorecard and ultimately determine who should've won this fight.
Official Judges: Derek Cleary, Ron McCarthy, Junichiro Kamijo
Round 1
Jan Blachowicz immediately stuck to the game plan in the first round, pushing Pereira against the fence and attempting to get the Brazillian to the ground. Pereira defended well for a time but couldn't fend off Blachowicz, who secured the takedown. "Poatan" attempted to get back to his feet but gave up his back which the Pole quickly snatched up. For the rest of the round, Blachowicz remained on Pereiras back but could not sink in the rear-naked choke, despite multiple attempts.
Judges Scorecard: 10-9 Blachowicz x3.
Verdict Scorecard: 9.95-8.97 Blachowicz.
Round 2
It was immediately apparent in round 2 that the elevation was significantly affecting both fighters, especially Blachowicz, who was noticeably labored. Both men chopped at each other's leg during the round, and Pereira pumped his jab out to the body of Jan, which was occasionally parried. Blachowicz secured another takedown after ducking under the left hook of Alex but was unable to do much damage with the position. After stuffing a sloppy takedown from Blachowicz, Pereira pushed Jan against the cage and patiently unloaded uppercuts and hooks. The round ended with Blachowicz desperately covering up.
Judges Scorecard: 10-9 Pereira.
Verdict Scorecard: 9.19-9.82 Pereira.
Round 3
The third round began similarly to the second, with both men chopping at the legs of the other. "Poatan" returned to his body jab, and Blachowicz occasionally blitzed at the Brazillian with his left hook. Pereira appeared to edge Blachowicz out with the striking, but Jan was still sneaking shots over the guard of Pereira and landed a solid body kick. Alex began to bring his jab upstairs more, which snapped Jan's head back when it landed flush. In the final minute, Blachowicz secured his third takedown but could not damage Pereira with big shots, and the round ended with Jan on top.
Round 3: Derek Cleary and Ron McCarthy 10-9 Pereira, Junichiro Kamijo 10-9 Blachowicz.
Verdict Scorecard: 9.32-9.69 Pereira
Official Result: Pereira def. Blachowicz via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29).
Verdict Scorecard: Pereira def. Blachowicz (28.48-28.46)
This bout was extremely close, with everything riding on the third round, which was difficult to score for many. Two judges favored Pereira's constant attack with his jab and leg kicks, whereas the other judge favored Blachowicz's blitzing combinations and sole takedown. The Verdict Scorecard agreed with the decision, having Alex Pereira take rounds 2 and 3, but it was very close.
Did the judges get the decision correct? As a member of the Verdict Community, leave a comment below with your scorecard, and give us your thoughts on the bout.
