Another week inside the Ultimate Fighter house brings another critical bout, shifting the momentum between coaching rivals Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen. Episode 7 of TUF 33 featured a flyweight contest where Team Sonnen’s Roybert Echeverria squared off against Team Cormier’s Tumelo Manyamala, a fight that proved pivotal for the team standings and highlighted contrasting coaching outcomes.
The Flyweight Clash: Speed Meets Strategy
The fight initiated with Tumelo Manyamala showcasing sharp speed and effective striking, frequently landing counters and controlling the early exchanges. His precision culminated in a right hand that briefly dropped Echeverria, securing Manyamala a clear advantage on the scorecards after the first round.
However, the narrative shifted dramatically in the second frame. Under the direction of Chael Sonnen and guest coach, former champion Robert Whittaker, Echeverria adopted a more aggressive approach focused on closing the distance. Despite two initial stuffs by Manyamala, Echeverria persisted, securing a crucial takedown on his third attempt. Once grounded, Echeverria maintained control, skillfully transitioning to take Manyamala`s back and securing a fight-ending rear-naked choke, forcing the tap in Round 2.
Cormier`s Growing Impatience
For Daniel Cormier, this outcome marked the second consecutive week a fighter under his guidance failed to execute effectively after early success. Visibly frustrated, Cormier addressed Manyamala directly, expressing disappointment over what he perceived as a winnable fight slipping away due to a lack of continued forward pressure in the second round. The moment echoed his similar critique of Alex Sanchez in the prior episode, suggesting a pattern that is undeniably testing the patience of the decorated former double champion.
Tournament Landscape and What`s Next
Echeverria`s victory pulls Team Sonnen closer, narrowing Team Cormier`s lead to 4-3 in the overall series. With this result, the flyweight semifinal bracket is now confirmed, featuring Alibi Idiris and Imanol Rodriguez from Team Cormier, facing off against Joseph Morales and Roybert Echeverria from Team Sonnen. The tournament structure continues its path towards a six-figure UFC contract for the division winners, notably without a concluding coaches` fight between the long-retired Cormier and Sonnen.
Looking ahead, the team score is poised for a potential tie. Episode 8 features a significant welterweight clash between Team Sonnen’s #1 pick, Diego Bianchini, and Team Cormier’s #1 pick, Rodrigo Sezinando. This bout promises high stakes and could level the competition ahead of the semifinals.
The Ultimate Fighter 33 season progresses, delivering high-stakes fights and coaching drama, with Daniel Cormier’s frustration serving as a recurring theme as Chael Sonnen’s team gains ground.
