Cody Garbrandt’s Pre-Fight Expectations
Before UFC 326, Cody Garbrandt was in a challenging position, having lost two consecutive fights against Deiveson Figueiredo and Raoni Barcelos. The former bantamweight champion was looking to regain his footing in the octagon and return to the win column.
Decisive Moments of the Fight
On March 7, 2026, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Garbrandt faced off against Xiao Long. The match was marked by controversy, as Garbrandt suffered three low blows during the fight. Despite this, he managed to secure a unanimous decision victory, with all judges scoring the bout 28-27 in his favor.
Immediate Effects on the Fighters
The fight had significant implications for both fighters. Garbrandt’s record improved to 15-7 in MMA and 10-7 in the UFC, while Xiao Long’s record fell to 27-11 MMA and 1-3 UFC. The two-point deductions for Xiao Long due to low blows played a crucial role in the outcome, leaving him to reflect on missed opportunities.
Expert Perspectives on the Fight
Commentators noted that Garbrandt delivered an encouraging performance, particularly in the first two rounds, where he dropped Xiao Long with a fierce elbow against the fence. Despite the fight being described as “ugly” and “foul-filled,” it marked a significant comeback for Garbrandt, who was previously struggling to find his rhythm in the octagon.
Garbrandt’s resilience was evident as he utilized only half of his five-minute recovery time after the second low blow, showcasing his determination to win. As one expert remarked, “Garbrandt was fired up again, landing a combination” that ultimately secured his victory.
Conclusion of the Match
With this win, Garbrandt not only halted his losing streak but also reaffirmed his status as a competitive fighter in the bantamweight division. The fight served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of MMA, where a single moment can change the course of a match.
