Kevin Holland enjoys fighting frequently, but a less busy schedule and staying at welterweight might be better for his long-term career.
Back at welterweight at UFC London, Holland effectively countered Gunnar Nelson`s attacks and landed a powerful knockdown in the first round, almost ending the fight. Although Nelson recovered and tried a submission later, Holland`s superior skills prevailed, and he controlled the fight until the end.
Ultimately, Holland won by unanimous decision (29-28 on all scorecards), rebounding after two previous losses in the middleweight division.
After his victory, Holland admitted, “I wasn`t sure how it would go. Gunnar is really tough.” He also addressed criticisms about his grappling, stating, “People say I can`t grapple. I can grapple quite well, especially against opponents who aren`t significantly larger than me.”
Holland commented on his weight class preference, “Welterweight is good for me for being a better athlete. If it`s at 170 pounds, I`d like to fight around July. If it`s at 185, I`m ready as early as next week.”
Holland aimed to maintain distance and strike, but Nelson managed to close the gap and secure a takedown. From his back, Holland attempted submissions, including an omo plata, but Nelson defended effectively and utilized his grappling skills.
Holland fought well from the bottom and eventually escaped to his feet. He then landed a powerful straight punch that knocked Nelson down. Holland followed up with strikes from top position, attempting to finish the fight, with a final punch landing possibly right as the round ended.
After a minute break, Nelson aggressively sought to take the fight to the ground again, while Holland tried to stay standing. Nelson succeeded in getting a takedown, but he couldn`t generate significant offense, and Holland even landed strikes from his back.
In the next round, Nelson again tried for a takedown, while Holland countered with knee strikes. Nelson managed to take Holland down again and this time transitioned to attempt an arm-triangle choke.
Fortunately for Holland, he defended the choke attempt, escaped, and got back to his feet, where he began to dominate the grappling expert Nelson. Nelson was forced to defend defensively, preventing Holland from creating space, which allowed him to survive to the end of the fight, but Holland`s victory was evident.
Despite mixed results at welterweight, Holland has appeared more formidable in this weight class. It remains uncertain whether he will remain at welterweight or opt for a busier fight schedule back at middleweight.
