Khalil Rountree Jr. might have come up brief towards Alex Pereira at UFC 307, however his efficiency within the first half of their struggle undoubtedly raised his inventory within the eyes of many followers (watch the highlights right here).
Coming into Salt Lake Metropolis, many questioned why the UFC was even reserving the No. 8 ranked gentle heavyweight to struggle Pereira for the 205 pound title. However not solely did “Struggle Horse” hold his phrase that he wouldn’t shoot a takedown towards “Poatan,” he gained the primary two rounds on the ft, based on all three judges’ scorecards.
However as fatigue set in and Pereira’s leg kicks broke down his motion, Rountree slowed and what labored within the early rounds not labored. Pereira began piecing him up within the third spherical, and the fourth was a bloody beatdown that ended by way of TKO with just below 30 seconds to go. By way of all of it, Khalil remained sport and stored combating again. It was a valiant effort, if not sufficient to defeat the reigning champion.
In a brand new publish on Instagram, Rountree mirrored upon the defeat.
“I didn’t win the title however I grew final night time,” he wrote. Alex Pereira, thanks for serving to me see that I’m able to tackle the world. You confirmed wonderful talent, you introduced out a model of me that I wanted to expertise. You’re the champ for a cause, a lot respect. However I now know what I’m able to.”
“Brazil, you guys have a powerful champion, be proud,” he added. “I’ll take time to heal from this. I’ll be again even higher, it’s inevitable. I’m grateful. By no means hand over on your self, all the time struggle laborious, uplift your communities, and discover methods to take advantage of out of life. Delta Middle thanks for internet hosting us. UFC 307 was an evening to recollect.”
The image Rountree selected for his publish is value a thousand phrases: Khalil moments after the loss, along with his eye minimize open and his nostril break up with an X like an anime character … smiling. Legitimately completely satisfied to have skilled the struggle. Developing brief, however realizing he gave it his all.
We’re wanting ahead to seeing what he does after a while off to heal up. After a efficiency like that, he’ll undoubtedly have numerous new followers.
For full UFC 307 outcomes and play-by-play, click on HERE!
