Roman Kopylov survived a difficult fight against Marco Tulio, potentially avoiding release from the UFC after avoiding a third consecutive loss. After losing the first round and a half, Kopylov rallied to score three knockdowns against his opponent. The Russian has now recorded nine knockdowns in his UFC career, an impressive mark for a striker. Despite possessing exceptional speed, technique, and powerful strikes from both hands and feet, along with an extensive amateur background, questions remain about whether Kopylov is performing to his full potential. His current 7-5 UFC record is considered below what his skill set should produce, though the victory successfully returned him to winning form.
Roman Kopylov delivered a dramatic comeback victory over Marco Tulio at UFC 328 on May 9, rallying from an early deficit to score three knockdowns and secure a crucial win in the middleweight division.
Kopylov, ranked 14th at middleweight, entered the fight under considerable pressure. The 34-year-old Russian from Raty Team carried a 15-5 record into the bout, with his UFC ledger sitting at 7-5 — a mark widely viewed as underwhelming for a fighter of his ability. A southpaw standing six feet tall with a 75-inch reach, Kopylov lands 4.59 significant strikes per minute at 50 percent accuracy. The victory pushed his career knockdown total to nine inside the UFC, a remarkable figure that underscores his finishing power with both hands and feet.
Tulio, known as "Matuto," came in representing Chute Boxe Diego Lima and brought genuine danger of his own. The 32-year-old Brazilian held a 14-3 record and showed his threat early, controlling the opening round and a half before Kopylov turned the fight. Tulio is one of the more active strikers in the division, averaging 6.69 significant strikes per minute at an impressive 58 percent accuracy, and also contributes on the ground with 1.42 takedown attempts per 15 minutes.
Why it matters
- Kopylov avoids a third straight UFC loss, a run that could have cost him his roster spot
- The win keeps him relevant in the middleweight rankings at number 14, preserving a path toward higher-profile matchups
- Despite the result, questions linger about whether Kopylov — armed with exceptional speed, technique, and striking range — is consistently performing at the level his skill set demands
Saturday, May 9, 2026
