Khalil Rountree Jr. dominated Jamahal Hill with powerful leg kicks and punches, securing a decisive decision victory in the UFC Baku main event.
Khalil Rountree Jr. dominated the UFC Baku main event, knocking down Jamahal Hill multiple times and targeting his legs with vicious kicks. Hill struggled to keep up as Rountree’s relentless assault left him limping across the octagon.
Despite not securing a knockout, Rountree’s significant strikes piled up, leading to a decisive decision victory. The judges scored the fight 49-46, 50-45, and 50-45, marking a comeback for Rountree after a previous loss to Alex Pereira. Hill, on the other hand, faced his third consecutive defeat since becoming the UFC light heavyweight champion.
“I didn’t underestimate Jamahal,” Rountree stated post-fight. “I learned from my mistakes against Alex. This time, I focused on smart decisions, aiming to be a championship-level fighter.”
Early on, both fighters traded leg kicks, but Rountree’s had more impact. Hill tried to counter with his boxing, but Rountree’s strategy of targeting the body proved effective.
In the second round, Rountree landed quick hooks and continued to punish Hill’s lead leg, further destabilizing him. A lightning-fast counter left hand dropped Hill, showcasing Rountree’s power and precision.
Rountree kept up the pressure, opening a cut near Hill’s eye with a stiff left and following with a brutal body kick. A massive right hook floored Hill again, solidifying Rountree’s dominance.
Though ahead on the scorecards, Rountree sought a finish but remained cautious against the dangerous Hill. As the fight neared its end, Rountree maintained control, ensuring a clear victory and reinvigorating his title aspirations.
“I want to be a champion,” Rountree declared. “Whatever it takes to get me closer to the belt.” Meanwhile, Hill faces a tough road ahead, hoping to rebound after a sharp decline from his championship peak in 2023.