The first major fight controversy of 2025 has taken place at UFC Vegas 101 — the promotion’s first card of the year. And, of course, it had to involve Chris Curtis.
In a jaw-dropping finish, “Action Man” was stopped by Roman Kopylov with just one second remaining in the contest.
Both athletes brought fire in their striking during the first round. The Russian seemed to have the upper hand, but Curtis appeared to be gaining momentum as time went on.
That stretched into the second, as the American continued his production, having landed over 100 significant strikes on his foe within the fight’s first 10 minutes.
Kopylov was not deterred and had his own surge of momentum in the third round. But just as everything seemed to be wrapped up with the judges to present the scores, the Russian landed a head kick that badly rocked Curtis.
Referee Marc Smith, with just one second remaining in the bout, stepped in and waved off the fight, giving Kopylov a victory via finish.
Roman Kopylov Controversially Finishes Chris Curtis With One Second Left At UFC Vegas 101
Kopylov has now won back-to-back fights and six of his last seven.
Curtis, meanwhile, has won just one of his last five fights.
