Brendan Allen continued his ascent through the middleweight ranks at UFC 290, securing a victory over Bruno Silva.
Allen (22-5 MMA, 10-2 UFC) showcased his dominance by winning his fifth consecutive fight against Silva (23-9 MMA, 4-3 UFC) in the opening bout of the main card at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.
Despite Silva’s prowess on his feet, Allen demonstrated his striking ability and landed a combination that resulted in a knockdown. He then proceeded to systematically dismantle his Brazilian opponent on the ground, ultimately seizing his back and securing a rear-naked choke for the submission victory at 4 minutes and 39 seconds into the first round.
BRENDAN ALLEN TURNS THE TABLES!!!!!! @BrendanAllenMMA | #UFCJacksonville pic.twitter.com/AZwcKyzxDG
— UFC (@ufc) June 24, 2023
Following his impressive win, Allen expressed his ambition to contend for the championship in 2024 and claimed that he poses the greatest threat to current 185-pound titleholder Israel Adesanya.
“I am the youngest fighter in the top 15 with the most experience. I will be the next champion,” Allen confidently declared during his post-fight interview with Daniel Cormier. “I am the only one capable of challenging the reigning champion in every aspect. Izzy, in 2024, I am coming for you.”
ALL IN has some names on his list, folks!!! @BrendanAllenMMA | #UFCJacksonville pic.twitter.com/Dyv1zduMet
— UFC (@ufc) June 24, 2023
Brendan Allen was a heavy $1.53 favourite to win the top MMA betting sites.