Kevin Holland and Michal Oleksiejczuk at the UFC 302 official weigh-in. Photo by Dylan Napoleone/Cageside Press
Kevin Holland defeated Michal Oleskierchuk in the main event of UFC 302 in Newark, New Jersey on Saturday, but it was clear in the process that he wasn’t being paid by the hour.
Poland’s Oleksiejczuk had previously lost to Michel Pereira, while Holland had lost to Michael “Venom” Page. Both fighters are crafty and creative strikers. Holland had moved back up to middleweight and was looking to end a two-fight losing streak with this fight. Fans considered Holland vs. Oleksiejczuk to be particularly entertaining, and that was true as long as the fight lasted.
Michal came forward and hurt Holland from the start with his signature looping left. Oleksiejczuk had Kevin down in the first minute, but Holland quickly went for an armbar, locking it in tight after several attempts as Michal tried to land punches. Holland flattened his opponent and didn’t immediately induce a tap, but at one point it became clear that the Pole’s arm had popped and was probably broken. Referee Herb Dean stopped it at Oleksiejczuk’s protests, but it was the right call since he couldn’t even control his right arm.
After his quick submission win, Holland’s post-fight interview was as intriguing as ever, as he called himself “the greatest gatekeeper of all time” and said he’d fight anyone, high or low in the rankings.
OFFICIAL RESULT: Kevin Holland defeats Michal Oleksiejczuk by technical submission (armbar), Round 1, 1:34
