Magomedov Wins But Raises Questions With Cautious Performance Against Pereira

Sharabutdin Magomedov returned from an 11-month layoff to defeat Michel Pereira by unanimous decision at UFC Baku, improving to 5-1 in the UFC. The victory was underwhelming, with Magomedov relying largely on distance work after a difficult opening round, and a point deduction was nearly assessed for hair-grabbing and an eye poke. Magomedov stated post-fight that he had anticipated Pereira's right hand and was looking to counter it, but over-committed to targeting the chin, which prevented him from finishing the fight.