Cody Garbrandt’s Previous Struggles
Cody Garbrandt entered UFC 326 with a pressing need to end a two-fight losing streak, having faced defeats against Deiveson Figueiredo and Raoni Barcelos. Expectations were low as he stepped into the octagon, with many questioning his ability to reclaim his former glory.
A Tumultuous Fight
The fight against Xiao Long on March 7, 2026, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas quickly became a test of endurance for Garbrandt. Suffering three low blows during the match, he even vomited in the octagon, a testament to the physical toll the fight took on him. However, the tide turned when Garbrandt dropped Long with a fierce elbow in the first round, showcasing his striking power.
Decisive Moments
Despite the adversity, Garbrandt managed to secure a unanimous decision victory, with all judges scoring the fight 28-27 in his favor. The outcome was significantly influenced by Xiao Long receiving two point deductions for his low blows, which shifted the momentum of the fight. Initially down on the scorecards, Garbrandt’s performance in the latter rounds proved crucial.
This victory improved Garbrandt’s record to 15-7 in MMA and 10-7 in the UFC, while Xiao Long’s record fell to 27-11 in MMA and 1-3 in the UFC. The fight not only marked a comeback for Garbrandt but also highlighted the challenges faced by Long, who was left to reflect on his crucial mistakes.
Expert Perspectives
Experts noted that the double-point deduction for Long transformed a potential win into a unanimous decision loss. As one commentator remarked, “The double-point deduction saw Long go from a certain win to a unanimous decision loss,” emphasizing the pivotal role of officiating in the fight’s outcome.
Garbrandt’s performance was described as encouraging, with analysts praising his ability to bounce back after a difficult start. “Garbrandt was fired up again, landing a combination,” they noted, illustrating his resilience in the face of adversity.
As Garbrandt looks to build on this victory, the fight serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts, where a single moment can change the course of a match. Details remain unconfirmed regarding Garbrandt’s next steps, but this win certainly reignites interest in his career.