UFC 289, headlined by Amanda Nunes vs Irene Aldana, stood on the fans’ expectations and delivered one exciting fight after another. The June 10, 2023 fight card at the Rogers Arena in Vancouver produced some thrilling and high-paced action. While the PPV offered allowed fighters to showcase their skills, for others, it was an opportunity to steer their career, such as Curtis Jones. In the closing fight of the prelims card, ‘Action-Man’ targeted a return to winning ways and a jump in rankings. However, Nassourdine Imavov, a rising contender, stood in his way.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The mouth-watering fight met an unfortunate clash of heads and a deep cut on Curtis’ right eyebrow compelled the referees to call the fight as a no-contest.
What transpired in the fight at UFC 289?
Curtis, who lost a close fight to Kevin Gastelum on his previous outing, started with a leg kick and had his work cut out in the French fighter with a gigantic frame. The American fighter brought out leg kicks in a southpaw stance to make inroads in Imavov’s defense and cut his reach advantage.
While Curtis pushed, ”The Sniper” stayed composed and tagged the UFC veteran with his right hand on multiple occasions in the first round. Further, he had Curtis in a complicated position as he successfully attempted a takedown early in the round. Dragging Curtis down, the 12-4 record holder sneaked in some effective elbows. When the fight resumed to ground, Curtis tried to match the fight but Imavov again got the back of Curtis in a critical spot but Jones escaped the tight position in the dying seconds of the first round.
The 35-year-old came down all guns blazing in round two and Imavov relied on luring Curtis. Both the fighters matched each others’ blows but Imavov’s reach advantage proved a trouble. Imavov threw in some body blows to mix things up. However, the French fighter accidentally hit the 30-10 record holder on the head and a bloodstream gushed down from the veteran’s right eyebrows. The medical experts had a prolonged check on Curtis. While Curtis’ eye was okayed but he failed to open his eye.
Curtis had an animated chat with referees who were about to call off the fight. His pleadings went in vain as referees ultimately declared the fight as no-contest. The anti-climactic conclusion evoked varying responses from the fans.
How did the fans react to the disheartening result?
Southpaw vs orthodox always has headbutts it’s no one’s fault
— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) June 11, 2023
that sucks. Chris Curtis can’t catch a break.
Good job by Jason Herzog to stop it. Chris obviously couldn’t continue. #UFC289
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) June 11, 2023
That really was the best case scenario for Curtis now he doesn't take a loss and he probably will get awarded an easier fight while Imavov will take a step up#UFC289
— MMAFANEBP (@KingOfCrackdown) June 11, 2023
No shot a headbutt is the deciding factor in 2 straight fights. Feel for Chris on this one! #UFC289
— dvrkø (@Imminentpsycho) June 11, 2023
Man… Curtis just can’t catch a break #UFC289
— #BergkampWonderland (@ArsenaLOLOL) June 11, 2023
That’s is the excuse @Actionman513 was looking for. He was clearly losing up until that point. He knew it was a wrap. #UFC289 @ufc
— Frank Figgeroa (@FrankFiggeroa) June 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Don't let it get you down @Actionman513 That cut looked rough. NC was the way it needed to go. #UFC289
— Lock 1865 (@Lock1865) June 11, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you think of this unlikely result of Nassourdine Imavov and Chris Curtis’ fight at UFC 289? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch This Story–Alexander Volkanovski’s coach reveals a depressing incident that almost led to the retirement of the great
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.