“Magic” Marlon Moraes lived up to his moniker tonight against Aljamain “Funkmaster” Sterling tonight (Sat., Dec. 9, 2017) at UFC Fight Night 123 from Save Mart Center in Fresno, California, broadcast live on FOX Sports 1.
Aljamain Sterling had a kick caught early, but once Moraes dumped him to the mat he immediately let him back up. Marlon Moraes dropped Sterling soon after, and Sterling looked quickly for a triangle. Moraes disengaged, but when Sterling stood back up, Moraes promptly landed a flush knee as Sterling ducked in for a takedown. It put Aljo out cold instantly, and he crumpled to the mat with no further ground and pound necessary. What a stunning knockout for Marlon Moraes!
In the post-fight interview, Moraes said he wants to stay active, but he expressed empathy for Sterling. He said watching it on TV is something, but being in the Octagon is unbelievable, and he is going to be trouble for the 135ers. He said he went for the kick, but it was the point of his knee that connected. Happy night for Marlon Moraes, who has now won two straight against ranked bantamweights.
Official result: Marlon Moraes def. Aljamain Sterling by KO at 1:07 of Round 1
For complete Fight Night 123 results, including play-by-play, click here