Filipino-American Phillipe Nover was not able to sustain his strong start, falling via a unanimous decision, 28-29, 28-28, 27-30, against former Ultimate Fighting Championship bantamweight kingpin Renan Barao Sunday morning (Philippine time) in the Ginásio Nilson Nelson in Brasília, Brazil.
The loss drops Nover to an 11-7-1 slate, dropping his last two bouts by decision.
The New Yorker was able to keep distance early in the match-up as he landed crisp jabs against the former UFC world champion. However, Barao, who is a dangerous Muay Thai practitioner, was able to land his patented leg kick-straight punch combinations with ease.
In the latter rounds, the Brazilian was able to keep adjust to Nover’s speed as Barao continued his barrage. With his back against the wall, Nover tried to head hunt but Barao was able to keep him in check the rest of the way.
Barao landed 64 significant strikes in the 15 minute affair compared to 39 for the Filipino-American.
Result: Renan Barao def. Phillipe Nover by Unanimous Decision (29-28×2, 30-27)
