On November 2, 2024, the vibrant city of Edmonton, Alberta, was once again a hub for mixed martial arts as UFC Fight Night 246 unfolded at the iconic Rogers Place. Among the bouts featured, a heavyweight showdown captured the audience’s attention as Alexandr Romanov faced Rodrigo Nascimento. After suffering a setback against Jailton Almeida in June, Romanov was desperate to reclaim his momentum in the octagon, and this fight would prove critical for his career trajectory.
The clash between Romanov and Nascimento was characterized by Romanov’s tactical superiority and relentless pressure. Over the course of three rounds, Romanov showcased his grappling prowess, achieving six successful takedowns and maintaining control for just over half the bout—an impressive statistic in the heavyweight division. The judges unanimously scored the fight in favor of Romanov, with all three yielding a decisive 30-27. This victory not only reinstated his confidence but also underscored the preparation he had undertaken to bounce back from adversity.
Romanov, displaying a commendable range of skills, emphasized his capability to prevail even when the fight remained on the feet. In his post-fight comments, he acknowledged a near submission that slipped away due to a loss of grip, yet he remained optimistic about his standing skills. “I have shown today that for me, it doesn’t matter: I can win standing up, too,” Romanov stated, hinting at his versatile fighting style that could adapt to possible changes in dynamics during a match.
A point of contention surrounding Romanov has previously been his work ethic and conditioning. Addressing this, he confidently asserted, “The biggest question every time for my side from all the people is that I have a big problem with my cardio. You’re wrong, guys.” This proclamation reflects Romanov’s desire to reshape perceptions about his physical preparations, crediting his professional team and family for their unwavering support. It’s clear that his mindset is as much a part of his training as his physical efforts, indicating a holistic approach that many fighters might overlook.
With this victory behind him, Romanov’s thoughts turn toward the future. He expressed hope for a new contract that aligns with his aspirations to break into the top 10 of heavyweight contenders. Specifically, he mentioned a keen interest in a showdown with fellow heavyweight Derrick Lewis, recognizing the potential this matchup presents. “For me, it’s a very interesting match because he’s this a name. He’s a massive, strong guy… that’s going to be a very good test,” he stated. This forward-thinking attitude emphasizes Romanov’s ambition and readiness to challenge himself against established names within the division.
Overall, Alexandr Romanov’s performance against Rodrigo Nascimento has re-established him as a serious contender in the heavyweight category. His blend of skill, determination, and strategic foresight paves the way for exciting prospects ahead, leaving fans eager to see what he accomplishes next in his ascent up the UFC ranks.