Kyler Phillips
Division: Bantamweight
Result: [autotag]Kyler Phillips[/autotag] def. Gabriel Silva via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Record: (7-1 MMA, 1-0 UFC)
Grade: A-
Keep your eyes on Kyler Phillips.
The bantamweight debutant put on a superb performance to win all three rounds on all three scorecards against Gabriel Silva as he showcased his easy-on-the-eye striking arsenal and big-game temperament in a display that bodes well for his future at the top level.
Phillips looked completely devoid of nerves on his octagon debut as he let loose with an array of strikes in the early part of the fight, including a spinning back kick inside the opening 20 seconds that drew gasps from the Norfolk crowd.
With Silva looking to push the pace, Phillips seemed happy to fight off the back foot, connecting with strikes, while effectively stuffing the Brazilian’s takedown attempts.
As the bout progressed, it became clear that Silva was going nowhere, and the two engaged an exciting back-and-forth battle, with Phillips fighting excellently off the back foot while the gritty, durable Silva continued to march forward throwing strikes. The debutant showed plenty of smarts on the mat, too, as he threatened with a kneebar in Round 2, then a D’Arce choke in Round 3 as he showcased his full array of skills in a complete performance. The only thing missing was a finish.
It all added up to a “Fight of the Night” matchup that earned both men well-deserved $50,000 bonuses. But it was Phillips who was the star attraction in the matchup as he claimed the victory to open up a plethora of exciting possibilities in the talent-rich bantamweight division.