TUF 31: Team Mcgregor vs. Team Chandler Episode 4 Results and Recap
The Ultimate Fighter Season 31: Team Mcgregor vs. Team Chandler episode 4 just aired. If you're here for a recap or results of the full episode, you're in the right place, so let's go over everything that happened in episode 4.
Bantamweight, Featherweight, Catchweight?
This episode's fight is Timur Valiev vs. Trevor Wells, which was supposed to happen during the show's second week. However, Wells was pulled from the bout last minute due to a cold sore. Because the bout was rebooked on such short notice, Michael Chandler advocated for a Catchweight bout between the two fighters, attempting to bargain for the fight to occur at 144 lbs. However, Team McGregor wanted to make it at the Bantamweight (135 lbs) and make Valiev go through the weight cut again to give Wells the advantage. Conor McGregor didn't attend the negotiations, giving Chandler a significant advantage, and eventually, it was decided that the bout would take place at 142 lbs.
Training: Timur Valiev
Timur Valiev drills wrestling with Chandler, who talks about Valievs explosiveness and his striking. He also trains with Robert Drysdale, Team Chandler's Jiu-Jitsu coach, who Valiev had trained with previously in Dagestan. Timur and Chandler also discuss the game plan for the fight, focusing on Valievs kicks and wrestling.
Training: Trevor Wells
At Team McGregor, Wells trains under the supervision of Conor, who also discusses weaponizing his cardio against Valiev. McGregor also brings in some help from Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson, who shares his striking knowledge as one of the best kickboxers in the UFC.
Weigh Ins
After a dramatic discussion surrounding the weight of the fight, weigh-in day finally comes. Timur Valiev weighs in first, coming in at 141.5 lbs. Trevor Wells weighs in at the same number. The two face off before fight day.
Trevor Wells vs. Timur Valiev
Result: Timur Valiev def. Trevor Wells via unanimous decision.
Division: Bantamweight (135 lbs)
Referee: Herb Dean
The first round started quickly, with Valiev attempting to establish dominance with various kicks. Wells caught Valiev with a nasty lead hook at the start of the round, but he fired back by attempting a takedown which was stuffed. However, Valiev secured Wells' back while he was on his feet and worked for a submission for two minutes. After Wells broke away, Timur landed several overhands and displayed his kicking arsenal. Both men traded on the feet, with Valiev getting the better of it.
Between rounds, Chandler encouraged Valiev to throw more jabs and kicks, as well as to use his wrestling. Team McGregor told Wells to focus on his backhand and stick his jabs out more.
In round two, Wells was able to get Valiev down briefly, but he shot back up and broke away. Timur got more creative on the feet, throwing spinning backfists and long combinations. A minute in, Valiev secured a beautiful single leg and controlled Wells for most of the round. Timur landed multiple hard shots on the ground, but Wells toughed through it and got back to his feet. The two traded until the round ended, a much clearer round for Valiev.
The judges had made their decision, despite McGregor advocating for the third round. Regardless, all three judges gave both rounds to Valiev, awarding him the bout.
Team Chandler is now 4-0 vs. Team McGregor. Next week's fight is #3 Carlos Vera vs. #2 Brad Katona. What's your prediction for that fight? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know your prediction in the comments below.
