Rodrigues Built the Lead and Survived Kopylov’s Late Push in New York
Gregory Rodrigues defeated Roman Kopylov by unanimous decision at UFC 322 on November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York. The middleweight contest ended with scores of 30–27, 30–27 and 29–28 after Rodrigues’s pressure carried him through three rounds.
Heavy punches and wrestling threats shaped the opening
Both fighters exchanged power shots early, but Rodrigues connected with the stronger overall offense. He also introduced takedown attempts, making Kopylov account for more than the stand-up exchanges.
That combination of threats gave the Brazilian a useful platform. Kopylov had to defend changes of range while trying to find enough space for his own striking attacks.
A submission attempt added another problem in the second
Rodrigues pursued the takedown again and threatened a heel hook. Kopylov defended the hold, forcing the contest back toward a standing battle.
Rodrigues resumed pressing forward and using feints, leaving Kopylov increasingly hesitant. The early work established an advantage before the final round brought the Russian’s clearest period of success.
Kopylov’s third-round rally did not reverse the verdict
A left hand hurt Rodrigues in the third, and Kopylov pushed the tiring Brazilian backward. Rodrigues remained in the fight and completed the scheduled distance without being stopped.
All three judges favored Rodrigues, although one awarded Kopylov a round. The result gave Rodrigues consecutive victories after his earlier knockout of Jack Hermansson, while Kopylov suffered another decision defeat following his loss to Paulo Costa.
Sources
- LowKick MMA: submission threat and third-round rally
- UFC: date, venue and official scores
- UFC: preceding Hermansson victory
- 411Mania: Kopylov’s preceding Costa defeat
Article Tags
Gregory Rodrigues, Roman Kopylov, UFC, MMA
