Overview

• Alvarez defeated Luque by unanimous decision with three 30-26 scorecards after a one-sided three-round bout.
• The Spaniard stepped in on short notice for Santiago Ponzinibbio and made his first appearance at 170 pounds, ending his UFC finishing streak but elevating his standing at welterweight.
• Action was halted in Round 1 for what was ruled an eye poke, yet replays showed the contact came from a legal punch before a doctor was brought in and the fight resumed.
• Alvarez controlled the striking and grappling exchanges, stuffed takedowns, landed flying knees, secured top position, and threatened submissions while easing off late in Round 3.
• Fans and media criticized referee Osiris Maia, the Brazilian commission, and Luque’s corner for the handling of the pause and for allowing Luque to continue with a visibly damaged right eye.