Brandon Royval didn’t expect to go the distance with Tatsuro Taira, but the goal of securing victory and handing his opponent his first career loss was accomplished.
The flyweight bout was the UFC Fight Night 244 main event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The incredible 25-minute bout left the judges split. The former title challenger Royval (17-7 MMA, 7-3 UFC) was announced as the winner over Taira (17-1 MMA, 6-1 UFC), with dueling 48-47 scores.
Royval set the tone in the opening round with crisp striking, both when leading behind a speedy right jab and catching Taira with sharp counters. Taira responded with a solid offense, connecting in a flurry that led to a takedown.
