Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S UFC welterweight fighter, Themba Gorimbo, suffered his second straight defeat after a hard fought three round battle that ended in a unanimous decision loss to American Jeremiah Wells (29-28, 29-28, 29-28) at UFC Vegas 110 yesterday.
It was a fight that showcased Gorimbo’s heart and persistence, but the judges saw it differently. Wells, who came into the contest desperate to avoid a third consecutive loss, did just enough to edge out the Zimbabwean despite long spells of pressure from Gorimbo.
Wells (12-4-1) had been out of action for over a year following back to back defeats to Carlston Harris and Max Griffin, while Gorimbo (14-5) entered the bout looking to rebound from a loss to Vicente Luque at UFC 310 that snapped his three fight winning streak.
The opening round saw Gorimbo waste no time asserting himself, shooting for early takedowns after Wells rocked him with a right hand. The Zimbabwean twice dragged Wells to the canvas, advancing into full mount before taking his opponent’s back and landing strikes from the top. Wells, however, managed to escape and reversed the position late in the round to finish on top.
The second round was more even. Wells began landing cleaner combinations, but Gorimbo kept looking for takedowns, repeatedly forcing scrambles. Each time Gorimbo went for control, Wells threatened with submissions, guillotines and arm triangle chokes, testing the Zimbabwean’s composure and defense. As the round wore on, Gorimbo’s energy began to dip, allowing Wells to dominate the final seconds from mount.
By the third round, both fighters were visibly tired, but Wells found a late surge. He landed heavy punches early before being taken down again. Gorimbo briefly held top control, yet Wells reversed and regained dominance, spending the final minute in top position, landing short strikes to close the fight strongly.
Despite Gorimbo’s relentless effort and early control, the judges favored Wells’ stronger finish and submission pressure, handing the American a much-needed victory.
Gorimbo now drops to 4-3 in the UFC but remains a fan favourite for his warrior spirit and resilience inside the Octagon.
— Cagesidepress/Sports Reporter
