Gegard Mousasi Batters & Finishes Vitor Belfort In Manchester

The co-main event of UFC 204 showcased two seasoned middleweights looking to make a statement. The two 185-pounders who did battle inside Manchester Arena were former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight title holder Vitor Belfort (25-13) and former Strikeforce 205-pound kingpin Gegard Mousasi (40-6-2).

This bout didn’t go well for “The Phenom.”

Mousasi struck first with a leg kick. His high kick was blocked. Belfort caught a kick and moved forward with strikes. A body kick found the mark for “The Phenom.” A combination landed for “The Dreamcatcher.” A left hand connected for Belfort. Mousasi responded with a stinging combination. Mousasi dumped his opponent to the mat as the round ended.

Mousasi threw out his jab early in round two. He landed a side kick to keep his range. He then took a body kick and connected with a counter right hand. Mousasi dropped down for a takedown, but Belfort thwarted the attempt. “The Phenom” was rocked with a head kick and Mousasi unloaded on him with strikes. “The Dreamcatcher” dumped Belfort to the canvas and rained down punches. Mousasi moved to mount and hammered away on his bloodied opponent until referee Marc Goddard stopped the fight.

Final Result: Gegard Mousasi def. Vitor Belfort via TKO (Strikes) – R2, 2:43