Kevin Holland produces a sensational performance before capping it off with a stunning KO blow over Santiago Ponzinibbio at UFC 287.
Before the Fight
Kevin Holland
Once again fighting in a showcase bout on a big card. The entertainment value of Holland can’t be overlooked when it comes to the value he brings to the UFC. As he looks to add to his win column his current record sits at 23-9. Despite only being in the UFC for four years. Trailblazer has amassed an impressive 16 fights in the promotion going 10-6.
Since moving to welterweight Holland has gone 2-2-1 in his five bouts at 170 lbs. His last bout was star-making despite tasting defeat. He and Stephen Thompson went to war before Holland retired at the end of the fourth.
Santiago Ponzinibbio
Formerly ranked among the welterweight elite. Ponzinibbio hasn’t had the best of luck since his 2021 return after two years on the shelf. As a professional, he has put together a great 29-6 record. His time in the UFC has seen the Argentine go 11-5.
Always dangerous in his last five Ponzinibbio has gone 2-3 with two losses coming via split decision. His last outing saw his stopping power showcased as he scored a comeback KO to claim victory against Alex Morono in the third.
The Fight
Round 1
Ponzinibbio looks to get close but Holland has a clear reach advantage. Santiago lands a nice hard leg kick to gain the attention of Holland. A stiff jab for Kevin stumbles Ponzinibbio, but he recovers immediately. In an attempt to land Santiago rushes forward but the head movement of Kevin prevents any damage.
So far the story is about the leg kicks from Ponzinibbio versus the range of Holland. When in close the Argentine is throwing heat with the hands but nothing significant has landed this far. Kevin has managed to roll and use his shoulders to deflect the strikes. A late back-fist from Holland sees Ponzinibbio hit the deck but the round ends.
Round 2
Not deterred by the late knockdown, Ponzi keeps on the front foot. On the contrary, Kevin seems to be growing in confidence as he applies pressure of his own. The lead hand of Holland is money mid-way through the second. Not a million miles away the length of Holland is posing problems for Ponzinibbio.
Two big lands for Santiago seem to connect, but Kevin looks unfazed. The leg kicks are adding up for the man from Argentina. Kevin lands a nasty right hand that forces a clinch from Santiago.
Round 3
More low kicks from Ponzinibbio land but Holland remains steady. Santiago seems to be more direct this round and is approaching his attacks from different angles. Throwing bombs, Holland’s head movement keeps anything from landing up top.
Another leg kick gets caught by Holland, before Trailblazers unleashes a ferocious left hand dropping Ponzinibbio face-first. A few more strikes see the referee step in.
Kevin Holland wins via KO round 3, 3:16.
What’s next for Kevin Holland after UFC 287?
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
