Despite having a formidable corner team including Khamzat Chimaev and Ilia Topuria, Guram Kutateladze delivered a lackluster performance in his recent fight.
Returning to the Octagon at UFC London after a period of inactivity since August of the previous year, Guram Kutateladze faced Kaue Fernandes in the opening bout of the event.
Kaue Fernandes, who joined the promotion in 2023 and holds a 1-1 record, has shown promise as an exciting addition to the lightweight division.
Guram Kutateladze, known as `The Georgian Viking`, is considered a dark horse in the 155lbs weight class, having previously secured a victory over Mateusz Gamrot, a ranked contender, and fought a very close match against Damir Ismagulov.
Kutateladze Overwhelmed as Chimaev and Topuria Watch
For his UFC London fight, Guram Kutateladze`s corner included notable figures such as former UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, Khamzat Chimaev, and Aleksandre Topuria.
However, this team of high-caliber athletes could only watch as Kutateladze gave what was arguably one of his weakest performances, suffering a brutal defeat at the hands of his Brazilian opponent.
From the start of the fight, the 33-year-old Kutateladze struggled with Fernandes`s unconventional striking. Fernandes effectively targeted Kutateladze`s legs, causing him to fall with powerful leg kicks.
Kutateladze barely made it through the first round to receive advice from his corner. Unfortunately, it made little difference. The second round unfolded similarly, with Fernandes continuing to dominate, bloodying Kutateladze`s face and further hindering his movement.
Despite being dropped multiple times again in the second round, Kutateladze managed to survive, but was clearly losing after two rounds and on the verge of being finished.
Uncertain Future for Kutateladze After Another Setback
Against the odds, Guram Kutateladze reached the judges` decision, avoiding a finish but losing the fight by unanimous scores of 30-27 on all scorecards.
Ultimately, Kutateladze has not lived up to expectations during his time in the UFC and is now in danger of being released.
With a UFC record of 2 wins and 3 losses in five fights, `The Georgian Viking` might not be granted another opportunity to compete in the UFC.
Rupert Hartwell