“I Didn’t Defend Myself” – Kevin Holland Releases a Statement After Controversial Decision at UFC Fight Night

Kevin Holland took on Kyle Daukaus at UFC Vegas 38. It was his third walk to the octagon in 2021. Unfortunately, after two defeats, it wasn’t third time lucky for ‘Trailblazer’ as he departed without a win yet again.

The end of the fight was mired in controversy as Daukaus seemed to have secured a submission win. However, that was later overturned into a no-contest following an accidental clash of heads.

Both fighters clashed heads in the first round of the fight itself. Holland hit the ground immediately, and was knocked out for a second. Daukaus quickly got on top as soon as his opponent was down and looked for a submission.

ALSO READ – ‘Wrestling Defense Bullsh*t’- Kevin Holland Says He Proved a Point Despite Controversial Decision at UFC Fight Night

In the press conference after the fight, Holland said that the headbutt knocked him out for sure, as he knew Kyle did not take him down.

‘Trailblazer’ also said, “I never thought about a no-contest. I’m not that type of person. As far as I’m concerned, he knocked me out and choked me out in one fight. If it was a street fight, he would have got the job done. Kung Fu first, defend yourself at all times. I didn’t defend myself for the headbutt. That’s my fault.”

How did the fight between Kevin Holland and Kyle Daukaus play out?

This fight was all set to be a test of Holland’s wrestling game after his previous two opponents outclassed him.

In the initial stages of the fight, Kyle tried to test Holland’s defense and shot for a takedown. Kevin, this time, was better prepared and stuffed the takedown attempt. From the early exchanges, it was clear that Holland had worked on his wrestling. He looked comfortable inside the octagon against a grappler. This was until both fighters had a clash of heads, which resulted in Holland getting knocked down.

It was the beginning of the end for Holland, as, after a few exchanges on the ground, Kyle caught him in a rear-naked choke and secured the tap. Because of the controversial clash of heads, referee Dan Miragliotta had a word with Herb Dean and the Nevada State Athletic Commission to review the headbutt. After some discussion, they declared the fight a no-contest because of the accidental collision.

What did you think of the fight? Do you agree with the no-contest decision? Let us know your thoughts!

WATCH THIS STORY – Five Times Thiago Santos Shut the Lights Out of His Opponents Inside the UFC Octagon