/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/49386015/usa-today-8446841.0.jpg)
Before former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones steps inside the cage tonight (Sat., April 23, 2016) against Ovince Saint Preux at UFC 197 from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas Nevada, for the first time in more than one year, a portion of the event's "Prelims" undercard will take place on FOX Sports 1 starting at 8:00 p.m. ET.
Find out what happened right here as the preliminary recaps roll in live:
Chris Kelades vs. Sergio Pettis
Flyweight prospect Pettis (14-2) needed a win under the UFC 197 spotlight to prove his young potential is worthwhile. By bouncing around the outside, mixing up levels, establishing versatility, and successfully defending himself on the ground, the 22-year-old outlasted his elder, Kelades (9-3). Despite landing some meaningful strikes on the feet and competitively pushing Pettis in close quarters and on the ground, the Canadian just wasn't consistent enough, losing by way of unanimous decision. Pettis finally builds some momentum in the Flyweight division with his second consecutive win.
Danny Roberts vs. Dominique Steele
Welterweight Steele (14-7) came out storming opposite fellow divisional prospect Danny Roberts (13-1) at UFC 197, landing heavy shots on the feet and strong combinations inside. Not to mention some solid ground-and-pound. Unfortunately, Steele began to slow after such an early energy dump, which allowed the Englishman to get into rhythm on his feet. The two exchanged heavy blows for the majority of all three rounds in a bout capable of winning Fight of the Night honors. But it was Roberts who won the vigorous battle via unanimous decision after outlasting Steele down the stretch.
.@DanHotChocolate answers in the second. What a FUN FIGHT! #UFC197 https://t.co/c73SUqOnz2
— #UFC197 (@ufc) April 24, 2016
Juliana Lima vs. Carla Esparza
Former UFC Strawweight champion Esparza (11-3) attempted to capture victory following her title loss last year when she met Brazilian Lima (8-3) at UFC 197. After utilizing a powerful ground game, implemented by consistent pressure and top control, Esparza outpointed Lima to the tune of a unanimous decision win. However, Lima showed great defense off her back with unique leg dexterity, but she just couldn't handle the natural strength of "Cookie Monster." This win should land Esparza close to title contention in 2016
Those up-kicks from @JuThaiMMA are NASTY! @CarlaEsparza1 has a solid chin! #UFC197 https://t.co/66yLgohXNx
— #UFC197 (@ufc) April 24, 2016
Glaico Franca vs. James Vick
UFC Lightweights Franca (13-4) and Vick (9-0) went to war tonight in an affair between two of the division's most promising young talents. Despite suffering an inadvertent eye poke in the first round, Franca stuck around on the heels of some solid takedowns, timely power shots, and a worthy chin. But it was Vick's fluid boxing, long jab, striking versatility, and calm defense off his back that reigned supreme, winning via unanimous decision while landing 90 total significant strikes. It is the fifth-straight win for "The Texecutioner" inside of the Octagon as he begins his ascent up the 155-pound ladder.
Man @JamesVickMMA showed the full striking arsenal tonight! Still undefeated #UFC197 https://t.co/k1AMHcpfbs
— #UFC197 (@ufc) April 24, 2016
For more UFC 197 results and coverage click here.