Sergey Morozov explains amplified happiness with UFC Fight Night 216 win, impressed by Journey Newson’s durability
LAS VEGAS – Sergey Morozov beat Journey Newson by unanimous decision Saturday on the preliminary card at UFC Fight Night 216 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.
Take a look inside the fight with Morozov, who swept the scorecards in the first fight on his new contract.
Sergey Morozov vs. Journey Newson
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 17: (L-R) Sergey Morozov of Kazakstan punches Journey Newson in a bantamweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on December 17, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
Result: Sergey Morozov def. Journey Newson via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
Updated records: Morozov (19-5 MMA, 3-2 UFC), Newson (10-4 MMA, 1-3 UFC)
Key stat: Morozov was 6 of 13 on takedowns, while Newson was 0 for 2.
Morozov about finding consistency
“It’s very good. It’s very important. Because every victory is important, but this victory specifically is good because this is the first fight on my new contract. I start my new contract out with a new victory. … Unfortunately, the way it’s been working in the UFC is I win one, I lose one, I win one, I lose one. Here, I’ve got a streak of two going already, two victories. I feel great about that.
Morozov on what surprised him
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 17: (R-L) Journey Newson punches Sergey Morozov in a bantamweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on December 17, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
“To be honest, I was preparing for five rounds. I was ready for five rounds. I was very well prepared physically and mentally. Honestly, I wanted to end it earlier. I thought I was going to be able to get him out of there earlier, but he surprised me. It was a good surprise to see how durable he was and how well he prepared for me.”
Morozov's on what he wants next
“To be honest, I have to apologize, but I’ll have to take a little break. I’d like to take a little time off. I’ve been working really, really, really hard this year. I’d like to spend some time with my family. I’d like to go home. Let me repeat myself, I’d like to go home and visit some high, religious Muslim places.”
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC Fight Night 216.
[vertical-gallery id=2605808]
