Donchenko’s Early Damage Set Up a Clear Win Over Morono
Daniil Donchenko defeated Alex Morono by unanimous decision on February 7, 2026, at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas. Two judges scored the welterweight fight 30–26 and the third 30–27, reflecting the Ukrainian prospect’s strong start and continued control.
The matchup and opening exchanges
The Ultimate Fighter season 33 winner was making his first official appearance following that tournament success. Morono arrived with substantial UFC experience but also a run of three consecutive defeats to reverse.
Donchenko pressured immediately and disrupted Morono with leg kicks. A left hand knocked the veteran down, leaving him bloodied and defending through a difficult opening round. Morono attempted an armbar during the scramble but could not secure it.
How the contest developed
Another early kick put Morono down in the second before Donchenko allowed him to stand. Continued attacks to the calf forced adjustments in Morono’s stance and restricted his ability to establish a consistent response.
Morono had better moments with his jab in the final round and bloodied Donchenko. Those exchanges did not produce a decisive turnaround, as Donchenko kept attacking the legs and retained his advantage over the full distance.
The official outcome
The unanimous verdict rewarded the damage established early and maintained afterward. Donchenko added another professional victory following his tournament breakthrough, while Morono’s difficult run continued despite his ability to survive the opening danger and complete all three rounds.
