In the main event of UFC 307 on Saturday, Alex Pereira brutally knocked out Khalil Rountree Jr to continue his hot streak in the Octagon.

Rountree provided the biggest challenge yet faced by Pereira as light heavyweight champion - but as the bout entered the championship rounds, an exhausted and bloodied Rountree could only take so much punishment, succumbing to defeat towards the end of the fourth.

In the co-main event, Julianna Pena reclaimed her throne at women’s bantamweight, defeating Raquel Pennington by split decision.

In her post-fight interview, Pena called on Amanda Nunes to come out of retirement to set up a trilogy bout, snubbing any insinuation that Kayla Harrison - who also emerged victorious on Saturday - was next in line for the belt.

Other star fighters in action included Jose Aldo against Mario Bautista, while fan favourite Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson also took to the cage in a star-studded featured prelim against Joaquin Buckley.

Relive all the action and all the undercard results from UFC 307 below:

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

• Alex Pereira battles Khalil Rountree in stacked UFC 307 card

• Raquel Pennington and Jose Aldo star on undercard

• Dana White confirms Conor McGregor UFC comeback plan

• ‘Poatan' vows to keep defending UFC title despite speculation over weight change

Alex Pereira brutally beats Khalil Rountree to defend light heavyweight crown at UFC 307

09:05 , Lawrence Ostlere

The fight ended in a fourth-round knockout thanks to a Pereira-special combination serve:

Alex Pereira brutally beats Khalil Rountree to defend crown at UFC 307

UFC 307 LIVE: Pereira vs Rountree wins Fight of the Night

09:00 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Khalil Rountree leaves everything in the cage

08:40 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Heartbreak for Holland in Dolidze defeat

08:20 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Is Julianna Pena ducking Kayla Harrison?

08:00 , Will Castle

In her post-fight interview, new women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Pena snubbed any insinuation that Kayla Harrison is next in line for a title shot - instead calling on Amanda Nunes to come out of retirement to set up a trilogy bout.

Kayla, who convincingly beat number two ranked Ketlen Vieira earlier in the night, was far from impressed.

UFC 307 LIVE: Wonderboy gives update after brutal knockout loss

07:40 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Full results

07:20 , Will Castle

Alex Pereira def. Khalil Rountree via fourth round TKO for the light heavyweight title (body strikes and uppercut, 4:32)

Julianna Pena def. Raquel Pennington via split decision for the women’s bantamweight title (48-47, 48-47, 47-48)

Mario Bautista def. Jose Aldo via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Roman Dolidze def. Kevin Holland via first round TKO (rib injury, 5:00)

Kayla Harrison def. Ketlen Vieira via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Joaquin Buckley def. Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson via third round knockout (overhand right, 2:17)

Alexander Hernandez def. Austin Hubbard via split decision (29-28, 29-29, 27-30)

Iasmin Lucindo def. Marina Rodriguez via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

Cesar Almeida def. Ihor Potieria via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Ryan Spann def. Ovince Saint Preux via first round submission (guillotine, 1:35)

Tecia Pennington def. Carla Esparza via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Court McGee def. Tim Means via first round submission (rear naked choke, 3:19)

UFC 307 LIVE: What next for Poatan?

07:00 , Will Castle

Conor McGregor thinks he has the answer.

UFC 307 LIVE: Pereira retains title in devastating fashion

06:37 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira ‘feels great’ at light heavyweight

06:25 , Will Castle

Alex Pereira has played down talk of an immediate move to middleweight or heavyweight after racking up his third successful title defence at 205.

“We saw that Dricus is going to be fighting Sean Strickland. He’s a training partner of mine so I don’t want to get in his way,” he said.

“I could go up to heavyweight but this division is great, I feel great with this weight cut and this is where I’m at.”

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

06:17 , Will Castle

Round four

Rountree is getting more and more beat up as this fight goes on. Suddenly, the tank is running empty.

Pereira starts the round by landing a stiff jab on his right eye, which becomes busted open. The Brazilian drives forward with a vicious combination.

Poatan smells blood and is LAYING in warheads on the skull of Rountree. The challenger is exhausted and is taking repeated heavy, brutal shots

Rountree is drenched in his own crimson and up against the fence, he takes two seismic body shots before an uppercut finally crumples him to the mat.

Warrior’s spirit from ‘The War Horse’, but he could only take so much punishment. Pereira was taking zero prisoners, devastating stuff. AND STILL!

Alex Pereira def. Khalil Rountree via fourth round TKO (body strikes and uppercut, 4:32)

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

06:08 , Will Castle

Round three

Big body shots for Rountree to start to the round, Pereira responds with a head kick.

Another overhand counter gets through for Rountree, who is marshalling Poatan in the first half of the third.

But as the round enters the final minute, Pereira begins to close the gap and punishing Rountree with jabs. He follows up with a jumping knee before initiating a clinch and laying in more knees from close range as the buzzer goes.

We’re getting championship rounds.

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

06:02 , Will Castle

Round two

Beautiful right hand counter from Poatan who is beginning to land more and more. Leg kicks also increasingly becoming a factor, and you can see the damage on Khalil’s calf.

Overhand right gets through for Rountree on the back of the ear. Khalil’s counters for much of this fight have been that little bit short - but as Pereira goes for an overzealous high kick, Rountree ducks it lands a counter shot flush on the nose to drop the champion!

Poatan gets up very quickly and appears unfazed - but he remains under the cosh and gets hit with a heavy head kick as the round comes to a close.

That could very well be 2-0 Rountree after two rounds.

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

05:55 , Will Castle

Round one

Here we go. Five rounds sanctioned for the light heavyweight title. Surely we won’t get more than a couple.

Poatan stares a hole through Rountree before charging at him from the clap. No three second KO here though, Rountree catches the kick and Pereira ends up on the ground.

Big left hand by Rountree but as he goes for a similar shot moments later, Poatan counters with a nice right hand. Pereira also utilising his trademark calf kicks early on.

Right hand then gets through for Rountree as part of a combination. The challenger is swinging and landing. Another right overhand clips the champ.

Rountree has showcased lightning speed in this round - but as the buzzer goes, he’s already breathing heavy. He’s not going to be able to keep up this explosiveness for long, especially at altitude.

UFC 307 LIVE: Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

05:42 , Will Castle

The main event of the evening is upon us.

Alex Pereira is arguably the scariest man in MMA today and will be eager to keep his stock sky-high as he squares off against Khalil Rountree in tonight’s headliner.

Rountree, who has been thrown straight into the title picture by Dana White after serving a four-month suspension for a failed drug test, is a versatile fighter with immense knockout power.

He has pedigree of finishing some of the best kickboxers on the planet - and while he walks into the Octagon as the heavy underdog, you would be naive to write Rountree off.

We’ve had a fair few decisions tonight. I’d be shocked if this makes it beyond the second round. Fireworks incoming.

UFC 307 LIVE: ‘I want Amanda Nunes to quit ducking'

05:35 , Will Castle

Julianna Pena has snubbed any insinuation that Kayla Harrison is next in line for the women’s bantamweight title - instead calling on Amanda Nunes to come out of retirement to set up a trilogy bout.

“What I’d really like is for Amanda Nunes to quit ducking and come back to this Octagon to settle it,” she said.

“We’re one and one, that would be the biggest fight in mixed martial arts history in the bantamweight division.

“I do not believe that she’s done. I want to see her back inside the Octagon so we can settle the score once and for all.”

UFC 307 LIVE: Raquel Pennington vs Julianna Pena

05:29 , Will Castle

Round five

Both fighters are throwing punches but the altitude is taking its toll. They’re tiring.

Out of the two, Pennington has the more energy but is making what seems to be a mistake by actually initiating a clinch with Pena, who would prefer to get the fight to the ground. However, the challenger doesn’t seem to have anything left in the tank to even try and take the champ down.

Pena then gets rocked with a right and is being pushed back. She responds well with a couple jabs but nothing to put Pennington in too much danger. We go the full 25 minutes and, once again, the judges are required.

Julianna Pena def. Raquel Pennington via split decision (48-47, 48-47, 47-48)

And newwwwww! Pena edges it on the scorecard to reclaim the throne at women’s bantamweight.

UFC 307 LIVE: Raquel Pennington vs Julianna Pena

05:19 , Will Castle

Round four

We’re into the championship rounds and we start with the most significant strike of the bout so far. Pennington throws a head kick and connects foot with face, stunning Pena who does well to stay her feet.

Pennington also finally starts to utilise low kicks, targeting the front leg of Pena. However, it’s boxing that the champ wants to rely on - and with two minutes to go, we see why. She slips Pena before landing a crushing overhand right to earn the first knockdown of the fight.

Pennington then makes the decision to go to the ground, which given Pena’s grappling acumen put the ball back in her court and allowed the challenger to weather the storm.

Pena survives to the buzzer. Fifth and final round required.

UFC 307 LIVE: Raquel Pennington vs Julianna Pena

05:11 , Will Castle

Round three

Stiff right from Pena to start off the third, Pennington responds with a left hook.

Pena then does well to close the gap and get the takedown once again, and this time she’s looking to damage. She’s laying in the ground and pound.

Pena then scrambles to get the back and goes for a choke. For a second it looks locked in, but she’s only squeezing the face of Pennington who is able to escape.

UFC 307 LIVE: Raquel Pennington vs Julianna Pena

05:04 , Will Castle

Round two

Pennington enjoying success whenever she goes for the calf kick, targeting the front leg that Pena is standing so heavily on.

Pena closes the gap, connects her hands behind Pennington’s back and takes her to the mat, where she possesses the advantage.

Pennington manages to get to her feet but Pena takes the back and is looking for a body triangle. The pair are up against the fence, but little damage is able to be done.

UFC 307 LIVE: Raquel Pennington vs Julianna Pena

04:59 , Will Castle

Round one

Five rounds in the docket for the women’s bantamweight title. Let’s have it.

Patient start to the fight as both measure each other out. Pennington connects with a left that gets Pena’s attention and later lands a strike on entry.

Good connection on the low kick from Pena, who goes for a flurry late in the round and catches Penningtin with a jab. The champ responds with a switch uppercut to chin of Pena to see out the first.

UFC 307 LIVE: Two title fights to come

04:44 , Will Castle

Gold is about to be on the line!

In tonight’s hard-hitting main event, Alex Pereira will face his latest test as the king of light heavyweight as he locks horns with Khalil Rountree.

Among an elite class of two-division champions, Pereira has been unstoppable since claiming the belt in the main event of UFC 295, where he stopped Jiri Prochazka in the second round.

It will be Rountree’s first outing since serving a four-month suspension for a failed drug test, and “The War Horse” will no doubt be desperate to dispel doubters by producing an upset for the ages upon his return.

But before that, Raquel Pennington defends her women’s bantamweight title for the first time since securing the strap at UFC 297, taking on former champion Julianna Pena, who will be eager to reclaim the throne.

Walkouts for your co-main event are imminent.

UFC 307 LIVE: Jose Aldo vs Mario Bautista

04:33 , Will Castle

Round three

Aldo focussing on his boxing but doesn’t get much opportunity to unload before Bautista shoots for his seventh takedown of the fight. It’s stuffed once again, but Bautista has him pushed up against the fence.

Constant pressure, constant level changes. It’s not what the fans are wanting to see, but it’s a smart strategy - because whenever Aldo gets some from freedom, he explodes on Bautista.

That opportunity comes late on and the pair wail on each other for the final seconds, but no last-gasp knockout in this one. We go to a decision.

Mario Bautista def. Jose Aldo via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

A very strategic performance from Bautista to secure the biggest win of his career. Safe to say he hasn’t gained many fans in Salt Lake City, however.

UFC 307 LIVE: Jose Aldo vs Mario Bautista

04:25 , Will Castle

Round two

Bautista gets into early trouble as he suffers a cut above his right eye. His vision is effected and Aldo takes advantage with a sharp left hook before going to the body.

With Aldo kicking into gear on the feet, Bautista shoots for the single-leg - but as we know too well, Aldo’s takedown defence is unparalleled.

Even after a wrestling-heavy first round, Bautista doesn’t seem like he’s slowing down but he’s getting hit, first with a crunching left hand from Aldo before eating a knee.

The Brazilian legend has the crowd on his side and after being pressed up against the fence once again, he bursts out with a flurry on the breakaway. Bautista responds with a flying knee which Aldo evades.

UFC 307 LIVE: Jose Aldo vs Mario Bautista

04:17 , Will Castle

Round one

Bautista starts things off in control, getting Aldo against the fence and looking to use his wrestling to wear out the two-time UFC featherweight champion.

The pair trade strikes in the clinch before breaking away, only for Bautista to get Aldo right back to the fence. Aldo needs to get more active when he gets that space.

They circle away again Bautista lands a nice left hook before connecting with a jab. Aldo then responds to slightly wobble Bautista before connecting with a swift combination as the round comes to a close.

UFC 307 LIVE: Jose Aldo vs Mario Bautista

04:10 , Will Castle

The King of Rio de Janiero is making his way to the Octagon as he looks to catapult his way towards the bantamweight title picture.

Aldo is intent on once again becoming an undisputed UFC champion - but on that collision course, he will faces the challenge of Mario Bautista, who is quickly rising through the ranks at bantamweight.

UFC 307 LIVE: Kevin Holland vs Roman Dolidze

04:04 , Will Castle

Round one

Holland chops the wood to start and connects with a three inside low kicks. He then catches a Dolidze leg kick and looks to use that leverage to connect with an overhand, but the Georgian slips.

‘Trailblazer’ is throwing big shots but Dolidze evades and gets the single-leg takedown. Holland then goes for an armbar but seems to fracture his rib in doing so, allowing Dolidze to get into full mount and rain down bombs for the remainder of the round.

Like an absolute warrior, Holland continues to move and protect himself to survive the barrage of strikes being unloaded him, making it the buzzer. But as he goes to the stool, his corner make the decision to call fight due to the injury sustained.

Roman Dolidze def. Kevin Holland via first round TKO (rib injury, 5:00)

UFC 307 LIVE: Kayla’s coming for the gold

03:46 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Ketlen Vieira vs Kayla Harrison

03:42 , Will Castle

Round three

Sharp inside low kick hurts Vieira early in the third, backing her up against the fence where Harrison shoots for the double leg.

Harrison becoming a little but flustered as she lunges with an overhand to avail. She hasn’t been particularly efficiant when it comes to getting her opponent to the ground - but with three minutes of the round to go, she does just that.

Then comes the ground and pound. Brutal elbows across the forehead of Vieira, who is trying to throw up a triangle in defence. Harrison gets into full mount and is raining down shots for the final minute. Compete dominance to see out the fight as we go to the scorecards...

Kayla Harrison def. Ketlen Vieira via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

Maybe not the uber domiant performance many were expecting, but a convincing win regardless against the division’s number two ranked fighter. Title shot seems inevitable.

UFC 307 LIVE: Ketlen Vieira vs Kayla Harrison

03:33 , Will Castle

Round two

Harrison goes for that same left overhand to single leg combination to dry and get Vieira back on that mat, she connects with the left but Vieira evades the takedown.

Kayla lands a stiff low kick before getting Vieira up against the fence. Ketlen then lands a big elbow of her own to form a massive welt on the head of Harrison - the most significant strike of the round.

A third round is required. It will be really interesting to see how Kayla’s cardio holds up for these next five minutes, especially given the infamous altitude.

UFC 307 LIVE: Ketlen Vieira vs Kayla Harrison

03:27 , Will Castle

Round one

Harrison opens with a left hand connection and spends first minute at a distance. Shoots for a takedown and while Vieira defends it well, she ends up against the fence. Vieira doing well to defend the body lock but this is where Kayla is comfortable.

Luckily for Vieira, Goddard separates the pair. But it doesn’t take long before Harrison stuns her opponent with a left before this time getting her to the ground. Massive elbow as Harrison gets into full mount, but she runs out of time in the first and Vieira survives.

UFC 307 LIVE: STACKED main card to come!

03:14 , Will Castle

Alex Pereira returns to the Octagon eager to keep his stock sky-high as he puts his light heavyweight championship on the line against Khalil Rountree in the main event of UFC 307.

In the co-main event, Raquel Pennington defends her bantamweight title for the first time since winning the belt at UFC 297, pitted against former champ Julianna Pena who will be hellbent on reclaiming the throne.

Elsewhere on the main card, Jose Aldo takes on Mario Bautista in his second fight since returning from a short-lived retirement - but first up, it’s the rapidly rising Kayla Harrison, who looks to continue her collision course towards UFC gold up against Ketlen Vieira.

UFC 307 LIVE: Joaquin Buckley calls out Kamaru Usman

03:08 , Will Castle

Joaquin Buckley wants former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman next, believing he needs just one more big win before he’s ready for the title shot.

“Usman, get your ass out here now,” he said in his post-fight interview after securing a brutal knockout win over Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson.

“Everybody wants to see that fight. I’m going put up my 5-0 record up against your 3-0 losses.

“Let’s get it, let’s see who’s gonna win.”

UFC 307 LIVE: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson vs Joaquin Buckley

03:00 , Will Castle

Round three

Buckley explodes on Thompson early on, pushing forward fearlessly with intent of bombs on the skull of Wonderboy.

Big head kick from Wonderboy connects after surviving the inital flurry, then BANG! Buckley knocks the LIGHTS out of Wonderboy with a nuclear warhead, landing a massive lunging right to make it five from five for ‘New Mansa’!

Joaquin Buckley def. Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson via third round knockout (overhand right, 2:17)

Another highlight reel KO to add to the collection.

UFC 307 LIVE: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson vs Joaquin Buckley

02:52 , Will Castle

Round two

Big spinning wheel kick from Wonderboy gets slipped by Buckley, who follows up with a shot that gets the attention of his opponent.

Wonderboy is being pushed up against the cage but is landing significant elbows in the clinch. Nice combination on the break coming away from the fence.

Buckley responds by waiting for Wonderboy to finish his combination before swinging himself, connecting with a nice right. Buckley then lands a flurry of punches and gets a takedown, but Wonderboy gets right back to his feet.

Brief stoppage as Buckley connects with an inadvertant (and debatable) low blow. Thompson looks to keep him at range for the final minute and slips a last-second flying overhand from Buckley as the buzzer sounds.

UFC 307 LIVE: Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson vs Joaquin Buckley

02:46 , Will Castle

Round one

Featured prelims rarely get better than this. Let’s get into it.

Buckley shoots early and lands a MASSIVE double leg takedown, slamming Wonderboy to the mat, but Thompson is able to get out of it relatively quickly.

Wonderboy then connects with a shot that looks to have rocked Buckley, but that doesn’t put him off. Buckley is constantly pushing forward on Wonderboy, clipping him with two powerful headkicks.

Buckley goes for the level change, looking for the single leg and gets Wonderboy up against the cage.

UFC 307 LIVE: Countdown to main card

02:40 , Will Castle

One more prelim to go, and it’s an absolute belter.

Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson squares off against Joaquin Buckley in a welterweight clash that should guarantee fireworks.

Then, in about half an hour, the main card gets underway with the ever-entertaining Kevin Holland and Roman Dolidze locking horns.

A cracking night of action ahead. Stay tuned.

UFC 307 LIVE: Marina Rodriguez vs Iasmin Lucindo

02:33 , Will Castle

Round three

Body lock and takedown early from Lucindo - but as she’s in mount, the pair get stood up once again by Goddard, who gives Lucindo a hard warning from pushing her chin into Rodriguez’s eye socket. That’s also why they were separated in the second, fantastic spot by the ref.

On the feet, Rodriguez connects with a sharp elbow and looks for a heel hook as they return to the mat. Lucindo escapes and gains ground control once again to take the fight to a decision. This could go either way.

Iasmin Lucindo def. Marina Rodriguez via split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

UFC 307 LIVE: Marina Rodriguez vs Iasmin Lucindo

02:25 , Will Castle

Round one

Lucindo wants to take this fight to the ground and it’s clear to see why as Rodriguez leaves her wobbly-legged with a overhand right to the temple. She survives the warning shot and does well to get that elusive takedown for with a minute to go, keeping ground control for the rest of the round and laying in ground strikes.

Round two

Rodriguez is finding her distance and connects with a nice combination as Lucindo backs up towards the fence. But just like in the first round, as Lucindo looks in danger, she gets the body lock and lands the takedown. Marc Goddard stands the pair up with 30 seconds to go and the round ends on the feet, with Lucindo landing a nice spinning back kick to the body.

UFC 307 LIVE: Pena’s championship pedigree

02:15 , Will Castle

Julianna Pena will look to reclaim the women’s bantamweight throne tonight as she squares off against Raquel Pennington in tonight’s co-main event.

Who did she beat when she was last crowned champ? Only the greatest to ever do it.

UFC 307 LIVE: Austin Hubbard vs Alexander Hernandez

02:07 , Will Castle

Round three

All action round three as both men go in search of a knock out in the final five. Hernandez gets Hubbard up against the fence and lands two heavy hooks but Hubbard responds with big hits of his own, doing damage with front kicks in particular.

In the final minute, Hubbard looks to have Hernandez hurt after connecting flush with two shots, only for Alexander ‘The Great’ to provide a receipt of his own. Both laying into each other for the final seconds as the crowd reaches fever pitch. Buzzer sounds and a decision will be required...

Alexander Hernandez def. Austin Hubbard via split decision (29-28, 29-29, 27-30)

One judge with a slightly perplexing view of the fight compared to his colleagues, deeming that Hernandez didn’t win a single round. Nothing on Howie Booth, mind you.

UFC 307 LIVE: Poatan’s power

02:00 , Will Castle

Alex Pereira’s knockout power is truly frightening. Will Khalil Rountree become the latest to fall victim?

UFC 307 LIVE: Austin Hubbard vs Alexander Hernandez

01:57 , Will Castle

Round one

Hernandez rocks Hubbard with a stiff overhand late in the first. Immense showcase of skills to start things off here, looking light on his feet and firing off shots. Hubbard looking to take it to the ground but to no avail.

Round two

Takedowns really aren’t working for Hubbard - he’s nought for nine. All credit to Hernandez, whose takedown defence has been impeccable. However, Hubbard is up on significant strikes in the second. Hernandez has kept up to speed for the most part but may be tiring as we go to a third.

UFC 307 LIVE: Jose Aldo back in action

01:51 , Will Castle

Jose Aldo is in main card action tonight as he takes on the fast-rising Mario Bautista in his second fight since returning from a short-lived retirement.

An icon of the sport, Aldo’s more recent memories of fighting in Salt Lake City aren’t the best, having experienced just how impactful altitude can be in his UFC 278 bout against cardio king Merab Dvalashvili.

A win tonight against Bautista would be a major statement at bantamweight, showing that the former champ is not simply back in the UFC for a nostalgic farewell tour.

UFC 307 LIVE: Carla Esparza bids farewell

01:40 , Will Castle

UFC 307 LIVE: Cesar Almeida vs Ihor Potieria

01:36 , Will Castle

Round three

Potieria is not a happy man as he appears to get poked in the eye again. Almeida is warned to close his fist, but still no point taken away. The Brazlian then lands a beautiful straight right hand before connecting with a hook.

Commentary losing their minds with the referee, who having missed four eyepokes is now seperating clinches after about three seconds. Potieria looks exhausted and ends up on his bag as the buzzer sounds. We go to the scorecards...

Cesar Almeida def. Ihor Potieria via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

A fight that will unfortunately be overshadowed by the performance of referee Dave Seljestad.

UFC 307 LIVE: Cesar Almeida vs Ihor Potieria

01:27 , Will Castle

Round one

Very relaxed round from the outset from Almeida. Potieria lands a heavy left but the Brazilian counters well. Almeida then follows up with another strong shot and enjoys success with the low kicks. Incredibly potent and efficient striking performance so far from Almeida.

Round two

Stuttered start to the round as Potieria gets poked in the eye THREE times in the space of 90 seconds. No word of warning from the ref and as action begins to flow, Potieria lands a takedown. However, it’s Almeida who does the damage on the ground, raining shots down while also nearly locking in a choke. Potieria survives and gets to a third round.

UFC 307 LIVE: Early prelim results

01:06 , Will Castle

Here’s a rundown of all the action from tonight’s early prelims in Salt Lake City.

To start the night off, home crowd favourite Court McGee pulled off an impressive submssion victory over Tim Means, getting the RNC in early and forcing a tap.

Two-time strawweight champion Carla Esparza was then just edged out of a retirement victory on her way out of MMA, losing on the scorecards to Tecia Pennington - wife of women’s bantamweight champion Raquel, who is of course in co-main event action later tonight.

And in the featured early prelim, it was another quick submission as Ryan Spann locked in the guillotine after landing a massive right hand on Ovince Saint Preux.

Ryan Spann def. Ovince Saint Preux via first round submission (guillotine, 1:35)

Tecia Pennington def. Carla Esparza via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

Court McGee def. Tim Means via first round submission (rear naked choke, 3:19)

Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree

01:03 , Mike Jones

Who will come out on top tonight?

Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree latest odds

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:57 , Mike Jones

Pereira to win - 1/5; Rountree to win - 7/2

Pennington to won - 4/7; Pena to win - 7/5

Via Betway. Get all the latest UFC betting sites’ offers. The Independent vets betting sites for useability, security and responsible gambling tools. You can claim free bets here to use across a range of sports. Please read the terms.

UFC 307: How much will altitude play a factor?

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:55 , Will Castle

The UFC is back in Salt Lake City tonight, a location that has become a bit of a regular on the PPV calendar. It’s where Leon Edwards headkicked Kamaru Usman into oblivion to win the welterweight title back in 2022, lest we forget.

However, fightcards in Utah pose a challenge unlike any other in the US: altitude.

Jose Aldo, who is in action tonight against Mario Bautista, learnt first hand how impactful altitude can be when he fought cardio king Merab Dvalishvili on that same card as Edwards vs Usman 2 - as did many fighters, especially heavyweights, who just found themselves gassing in the first few minutes.

If fighters haven’t factored in altitude properly and acclimatised to the conditions early prior to the event, then UFC 307 could throw up some very surprising results.

Do not write off an upset...

Pereira ‘one of the best'

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:51 , Mike Jones

Brazil’s Alex Pereira returns to the octagon for the third time in 2024 having enjoyed a swift rise to the top of the UFC.

He’s won titles at middleweight and light-heavyweight since joining the promotion in November 2021 and is now looking to make history as he defends his belt for a third time.

Ronda Rousey holds the current UFC record for the shortest period between three consecutive title defences, achieving that feat in 189 days, while Pereira - if successful - will have done it just 175 days.

“I’m one of the best, the numbers don’t lie,” he said, “Fans want to see fights and I deliver fights.”

Khalil Rountree to bring ‘best version of me'

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:45 , Mike Jones

Khalil Rountree has not competed since December 2023 and was removed from the UFC 303 card after being suspended for two months following a positive test for anabolic steroid DHEA in a urine sample.

Due to his co-operation, Rountree, who denied intentionally doping, was given a retrospective ban that expired on 18 September and was fined £119.14.

“Look at the guy’s record, look at what he’s done. It would be extra sweet [to win], it would be major,” Rountree said when speaking about facing Alex Pereira.

“The main reason I’ve always wanted this fight is for the fans - you’ve got two of the best strikers in the world going at it. When I step in there you get the best version of me.”

UFC 306 LIVE: Carla Esparza edged out on scorecards in retirement fight

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:39 , Will Castle

That’s all she wrote for Carla Esparza as she bows out on a career in mixed martial arts - and the Cookie Monster has done herself proud in her last ever fight.

In a nice full-circle rematch of their TUF 20 bout, Esparza took Tecia Pennington - wife of women’s bantamweight champion Raquel - to the wire in the second early prelim of the night, but was just edged out on the scorecards after a closely-fought 15 minutes.

As a two-time champion, Esparza hangs up her gloves as a historic piece of the strawweight puzzle.

"It's been an amazing journey these last 15 years I've fought the best of the best, and it's not always easy," Esparza said in her post-fight interview.

"There's ups and downs in the sport, but I wouldn't have done it any other way. This is the greatest sport in the world.

“And thank you to all the UFC fans, my friends, my family, the awesome UFC staff, just my coach Colin Oyama who's been with me from day one, and my manager, Brian. Just everybody, I'm so, man, I just, I love this sport. Thank you guys so much."

Harrrison believes she is UFC’s ‘uncrowned quenn'

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:39 , Mike Jones

Kayla Harrison believes she is the “uncrowned queen” in the UFC as she prepares for her fight against Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City this weekend.

The winner will be in line for a shot at the bantamweight title next time out as bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington and challenger Julianna Pena also fight on tonight’s card.

“I’m the uncrowned queen,” Harrison said. “First, Saturday night I smash Ketlen and then I come for my title, so enjoy it while you can ladies.”

Conor McGregor targets fight against ‘woeful’ UFC champion after Michael Chandler

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:33 , Mike Jones

Conor McGregor has claimed he would like to fight UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad as he looks to decide on an opponent for his return to the sport next year.

McGregor had agreed to fight American lightweight Michael Chandler at UFC 305 in June, before pulling out after injuring his toe in the lead-up to the fight.

“He’s woeful. I want to fight him,” McGregor said of the 36-year-old.

“OK, Chandler is next. Belal-McGregor, UFC welterweight world title fight on the line. I have multiple knockouts at 170. I’m a force to be reckoned with at 170. I do damage at 170,” he added.

“Check the stats. One hundred percent accuracy, this man hasn’t even got a knockdown in UFC history. Not one knockdown! It’s embarrassing, to be honest. Kind of slow-rolling a person. They’re all bums.”

How can I watch it?

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:27 , Mike Jones

The card will air live on TNT Sports in the UK, with the broadcaster’s app and website also streaming the fights. Discovery+ will also air the action in the UK. In the US, ESPN+ will stream the event live, as will the UFC’s Fight Pass.

If you’re travelling abroad and want to watch major sporting events, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN round-up is here to help and includes deals on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider.

When is UFC 307?

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:21 , Mike Jones

UFC 307 takes place at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City on Saturday October 5.

The early prelims are due to begin at 12.30am BST on Sunday (4.30pm PT / 6.30pm CT / 7.30pm ET on Saturday), with the prelims following at 1am BST on Sunday (5pm PT / 7pm CT / 8pm ET on Saturday). The main card is then scheduled for 3am BST on Sunday (7pm PT / 9pm CT / 10pm ET on Saturday).

UFC 307 LIVE

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:14 , Mike Jones

In the co-main event, Raquel Pennington defends her bantamweight title for the first time since securing the strap at UFC 297, taking on former champion Julianna Pena who will be eager to reclaim the throne.

Elsewhere on the main card, Kevin Holland kicking things off in an exciting middleweight matchup with Georgian brawler Roman Dolidze, while the likes of Jose Aldo and Kayla Harrison are also in action.

So stacked is this event that fan favourite Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson has been relegated to the prelims, facing off against Joaquin Buckley in a hotly-anticipated welterweight scrap.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:08 , Mike Jones

1. Islam Makhachev (26-1, lightweight champion)

Some used to question the Russian’s credentials, given a lack of top-tier opponents on his record, though that was arguably due to fighters’ tentativeness to risk their rankings against a dangerous up-and-comer. Others accused Makhachev of benefiting from his connection to Khabib – his childhood friend and now one of Makhachev’s coaches. Regardless, the 32-year-old banished any doubt in 2022 when he submitted Oliveira to win the vacant lightweight title, suggesting that he would have done the same to most contenders at 155lb.

Makhachev then made it 13 wins in a row by beating Volkanovski twice in eight months, retaining his title against the then-featherweight champion on both occasions. In February 2023, Makhachev outpointed the Aussie in Perth, then in October, he knocked him out with a head kick in round one. Volkanovski had stepped in on short notice for the rematch, but Makhachev was also affected by the late replacement, after Oliveira – his original opponent – suffered a cut over his eye.

Those victories saw Makhachev rise to No 1 in our rankings, a position he solidified with his submission of lightweight great Dustin Poirier in June.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Sunday 6 October 2024 00:03 , Mike Jones

2. Alex Pereira (11-2, light-heavyweight champion)

The Brazilian kickboxing extraordinaire enjoyed a rapid rise through the middleweight rankings after transitioning to MMA, culminating in a knockout of his old rival Israel Adesanya in 2022 to take the title. Although Pereira was stopped by Adesanya in a rematch last April, he bounced back with a swift move up to light-heavyweight, where he outpointed former champion Jan Blachowicz.

In his next fight, Pereira fought for the vacant 205lb title, beating another ex-champion in Jiri Prochazka to secure two-weight-champion status in record time. Pereira, 36, sealed that feat with a second-round TKO. Next up for Pereira was a title defence against his predecessor atop the 205lb division, Jamahal Hill, in the main event of UFC 300 – a fight that Pereira won early and emphatically.

At UFC 303, Pereira stepped up on two weeks’ notice to defend the title again, knocking out Prochazka in the second round for the second time in seven months. Earlier in his career, by the way, Pereira also recorded a knockout of Sean Strickland, who would go on to become middleweight champion.

As some have said, “Poatan” is speed-running a Hall of Fame career.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:58 , Mike Jones

3. Tom Aspinall (15-3, interim heavyweight champion)

Aspinall almost entered our rankings in November, when he demolished Sergei Pavlovich to win the interim heavyweight title, but he finally got the nod this January. Then, in July, he shot from 10th to third.

The Briton, 31, was the future of heavyweight MMA, now he is the present: a remarkable athlete who moves like a lightweight while hitting like his predecessors. He holds the record for the shortest average fight time for an athlete with five or more UFC bouts – and barring his early injury in a fight with Curtis Blaydes in 2022, he has won them all.

In fact, Aspinall avenged that loss with a first-minute KO of Blaydes this July, retaining the interim title – while Jones and Miocic wait to reschedule their delayed clash for the regular belt. Whoever wins that fight, if they do not retire afterwards, should be very afraid of Aspinall.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:53 , Mike Jones

4. Dricus Du Plessis (22-2, middleweight champion)

It is funny to think the South African is still derided, with many fans saying his bulldozing, ungainly style will eventually be his undoing. Yet that style has led Du Plessis to victories over some of the best middleweights ever, and to the middleweight title. The 30-year-old won a narrow decision in a battle with Sean Strickland in January, making him South Africa’s first UFC champion, and that win was sandwiched between stoppages of former title holders Israel Adesanya and Robert Whittaker – two of the best fighters the division has ever seen.

“Stillknocks” also holds wins over Darren Till, Derek Brunson and Brad Tavares, is unbeaten in the UFC, and has secured 20 of his 22 wins via stoppage – with a near-even split of KOs and submissions. To that point, he TKOed Whittaker and submitted Adesanya, with the latter result moving him three places up the rankings.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:48 , Mike Jones

5. Jon Jones (27-1, 1 NC; heavyweight champion)

When Jones returned to the UFC in 2023 after a three-year absence, winning the heavyweight title by submitting Ciryl Gane in the first round, many believed that the American confirmed himself as the greatest of all time. A lot of fans also felt he should go straight to the top of any pound-for-pound list. And Jones’s victory certainly was impressive, particularly due to its manner and the factors around the 37-year-old’s heavyweight debut.

It was enough for the former two-time light-heavyweight champion to shoot straight into our rankings at No 2. However, his lack of activity has seen him drop by two spots following his injury in October, which derailed his planned clash with heavyweight ‘GOAT’ Stipe Miocic. That fight might get rebooked later this year, but a unification bout with interim champion Aspinall could also be on the cards...

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:43 , Mike Jones

6. Alexander Volkanovski (26-4, featherweight)

After suffering the first defeat of his pro career in 2013, Volkanovski won a stunning 22 fights in a row. In fact, his only pro losses had come against a welterweight champion and a lightweight champion until February, when he finally lost the UFC featherweight title.

Two of those defeats came in 2023, with Volkanovski losing a narrow decision to Islam Makhachev in February while challenging for the 155lb belt, then suffering a shock, early knockout against the Russian in their rematch. Those results, the latter coming after Volk stepped in on short notice, saw the Australian drop from No 1 to No 4 here. The 35-year-old then fell by one more spot after losing his 145lb belt to rising star Ilia Topuria, who knocked out “Alexander The Great” in February.

In any case, Volk remains one of the best to ever do it, his four-year title reign consisting of wins over Max Holloway (thrice), Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes, Brian Ortega, Yair Rodriguez and the Chan Sung Jung.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:38 , Mike Jones

7. Leon Edwards (22-4, 1 NC; welterweight)

Edwards became Britain’s second UFC champion with a stunning, last-gasp knockout of Kamaru Usman in 2022. After taking down the Nigerian-American – something no fighter had ever done in the UFC – Edwards continually rose to his feet amid an onslaught of grappling pressure, keeping himself in the fight. Then, with a minute left on the clock, he knocked Usman out cold with a head kick.

In 2023, Edwards outpointed Usman in London to solidify his status as champion, before further cementing that status by beating Colby Covington. Edwards put on clinical displays in both decision wins, showing just how well rounded he is – one of the best examples of the modern mixed martial artist.

The Jamaican-born southpaw, 32, won 12 fights in a row after a points loss to Usman in 2015, save for a No Contest against Belal Muhammad in 2021. And his fine run was finally ended by Muhammad in July 2024, as the Palestinian-American outpointed Edwards in Manchester. That result saw Edwards drop from third to seventh here.

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:33 , Mike Jones

8. Ilia Topuria (15-0, featherweight champion)

Spoke ‘arrogantly’ about his chances against featherweight great Alexander Volkanovski in February, only for his words to prove prophetic. Topuria, 27, brutally knocked out the Australian in the second round, taking the 145lb title and becoming the first UFC champion to represent Spain or Georgia. That win also kept Topuria unbeaten, moving him to 15-0. “El Matador”’s versatility is evidenced by his record, too; eight of his wins have come by submission, five via knockout.

There was also much talk of his power ahead of his fight with Volkanovski, and that talk was justified. Previously, Topuria showed his submission threat by tapping out grappling specialist Bryce Mitchell in 2022, before he outclassed Josh Emmett in every area of the game for a decision win in 2023. Many fans felt Topuria would be set for a dominant reign, but the announcement of a first title defence against Holloway has changed a few opinions...

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:28 , Mike Jones

9. Merab Dvalishvili (18-4, bantamweight champion)

The Georgian entered our rankings after winning the bantamweight strap from Sean O’Malley at UFC 306 in September.

That result marked an 11th straight win for Dvalishvili, who cruised to a decision victory over “Sugar Sean” with relentless pressure and superior grappling.

The 33-year-old’s detractors will point to his lack of finishes, and that point is a fair one (the “Machine” has just one stoppage in his current win streak), but his accomplishments are more important.

Prior to beating O’Malley, Dvalishvili won three straight fights against former champions: Henry Cejudo, Petr Yan and Jose Aldo – and none of them came close to defeating him,

UFC rankings: The Independent’s pound-for-pound fighters list

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:23 , Mike Jones

10. Max Holloway (26-7, featherweight)

Re-entered our rankings after his stunning stoppage of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 – one of the greatest knockouts in UFC history. After a previous, failed endeavour at lightweight in 2019, the featherweight icon returned to 155lb and beat up Gaethje for five rounds.

Then, with 10 seconds left on the clock, the Hawaiian called on Gaethje to trade hands in the centre of the cage, risking the victory. What happened? Holloway faceplanted Gaethje with one second left, claiming the ‘Baddest Motherf***er’ belt.

And at 145lb, save for a trio of decision losses to Alexander Volkanovski, Holloway has been phenomenal for years, previously reigning as champion and recording wins over a who’s-who of featherweights. He has a chance to regain the featherweight belt against our No 8 in October...

Alex Pereira vows to keep defending UFC title despite speculation over weight change

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:18 , Mike Jones

“I will actually choose to defend my belt. For me to go to a lower weight class would take some time and would need some more preparation, for me to go to a higher weight class it also takes more preparation so right now the way that it is at light heavyweight is perfect,” Pereira revealed at the UFC 307 media day.

“Well, I was only thinking about training because Jones expressed that his next fight might be his last fight so I want to go over there and learn a little bit from him. I’m a guy that has an open mind and I think it would be great.”

Dana White confirms Conor McGregor UFC comeback plan

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:12 , Mike Jones

UFC president Dana White has insisted that Conor McGregor will fight in 2025, after the former champion’s return faced another setback this week.

It was announced in February 2023 that McGregor would fight Michael Chandler next, though no date was confirmed for the bout – until this April. After UFC 300, White said McGregor would face Chandler in June.

However, McGregor suffered a broken toe, delaying the fight indefinitely. Then, on Saturday (14 September), Chandler announced he would take on Charles Oliveira in November. That bout is a rematch of Oliveira’s 2021 win against the American, which came via TKO.

McGregor expressed his frustration at the situation, but White is adamant that the Irishman will fight in 2025.

“Yes,” he said. “I wasn’t 100 per cent in 2024, but I am in 2025. I just am.

“I know more than you guys know. I’m 100 per cent confident McGregor will fight next year.”

UFC 307 - full card

Saturday 5 October 2024 23:06 , Mike Jones

Main Card

Alex Pereira (C) vs Khalil Rountree Jr (light heavyweight title)

Raquel Pennington (C) vs Julianna Pena (women’s bantamweight title)

Jose Aldo vs Mario Bautista (men’s bantamweight)

Ketlen Vieira vs Kayla Harrison (women’s bantamweight)

Roman Dolidze vs Kevin Holland (middleweight)

Prelims

Stephen Thompson vs Joaquin Buckley (welterweight)

Marina Rodriguez vs Iasmin Lucindo (women’s strawweight)

Austin Hubbard vs Alexander Hernandez (lightweight)

Cesar Almeida vs Ihor Potieria (middleweight)

Early prelims

Ryan Spann vs Ovince Saint Preux (light heavyweight)

Carla Esparza vs Tecia Pennington (women’s strawweight)

Court McGee vs Tim Means (welterweight)

UFC 307 time: When does Alex Pereira vs Khalil Rountree start in UK and US?

Saturday 5 October 2024 22:51 , Jack Rathborn

Alex Pereira will face his latest test as the king of light heavyweight as he locks horns with Khalil Rountree in UFC 307’s hard-hitting main event this weekend.

Headlining the promotion’s return to Salt Lake City, ‘Poatan’ will be eager to continue his dominant reign as champion that first started with a knockout win over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295.

It will be Rountree’s first outing since serving a four-month suspension for a failed drug test, and “The War Horse” will no doubt be desperate to dispel doubters by producing an upset for the ages upon his return.

What time does UFC 307 start in the UK and US?

UFC 307 LIVE

Saturday 5 October 2024 11:37 , Mike Jones

Alex Pereira will face his latest test as the king of light heavyweight as he locks horns with Khalil Rountree in UFC 307’s hard-hitting main event this weekend.

Headlining the promotion’s return to Salt Lake City, ‘Poatan’ will be eager to continue his dominant reign as champion that first started with a knockout win over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295.

It will be Rountree’s first outing since serving a four-month suspension for a failed drug test, and “The War Horse” will no doubt be desperate to dispel doubters by producing an upset for the ages upon his return.

We’ll have all the latest updates and coverage from the event throughout the evening so stick with us.