Joel Alvarez and Drukkar Klose at UFC Tampa’s ceremonial weigh-in at Amalie Arena, December 13, 2024 Credit: Jay Anderson/Cageside Press
Lightweights Joel Alvarez and Drucker Klose faced off Saturday on the UFC Tampa preliminary card, part of the UFC’s final event of the year.
Alvarez won two in a row, including a TKO win at Performance of the Night, and became the first man to finish Elf Brenner in his previous fight. Klose fared even better, winning four consecutive races, including two performance bonuses. However, tragedy struck Klose earlier this year when his older brother, who often helped scout for the enemy, was murdered.
Alvarez came out with his usual slow pressure and waited for an opening. He stung Klose with the first right hand that landed, forcing him to instinctively shoot for a takedown. Klose knocked Alvarez to the floor, but the Spaniard was able to get back to his feet after scooting back to the fence. Back in the open space, Alvarez surprised Klose again. Klose’s back hit the fence and Alvarez landed a flying knee that sent him out cold.
The size difference was obvious from the moment the fight started. “El Fenomeno”, as always, took advantage of his 6-inch height and 7-inch reach. His 100% completion rate remains intact and he is definitely worthy of his next ranked opponent. Perhaps he’ll fight in his home country next, as the UFC is eyeing a trip to Spain in 2025.
Official result: Joel Alvarez def. Drucker Klose knockout (Round 1, 2:48)
