Taylor Lapilus Beats Liam Gittins With Precision Striking
In one of the most technically impressive performances of PFL Lyon, French bantamweight Taylor Lapilus showcased elite footwork, sharp striking, and veteran composure to secure a unanimous decision victory over England’s Liam Gittins. Judges scored the bout 30–27, 30–27, and 29–28, reflecting Lapilus’ clear command across all three rounds. (Source: Tapology)
A High-Paced Bantamweight Battle
From the opening bell, both fighters came out firing. Gittins—known for his pressure-heavy style and gritty pace—attempted to close distance and force exchanges. But Lapilus refused to be trapped. His lateral movement, feints, and clean counterstriking kept Gittins off rhythm throughout the fight. (Source: MMATown)
Lapilus’ jab was the story of the night. Snapping Gittins’ head back repeatedly, it set up combinations, halted forward pressure, and allowed Lapilus to dictate the tempo.
Lapilus’ Striking Volume Makes the Difference
While Gittins pushed forward relentlessly, Lapilus consistently landed the cleaner, more accurate shots. His ability to pivot off the center line and fire back with crisp one‑twos frustrated Gittins, who struggled to find sustained success in the pocket.
Key advantages for Lapilus included:
- Superior footwork that neutralized Gittins’ pressure
- Higher striking accuracy and volume
- Effective counterpunching that punished every entry
- Composure under fire, especially during late-round surges
By Round 3, Gittins was visibly chasing the fight, while Lapilus continued to pick him apart with disciplined shot selection.
Gittins Shows Heart but Falls Short
Despite the loss, Gittins demonstrated why he’s considered one of Europe’s toughest bantamweights. He absorbed heavy shots, kept pushing forward, and attempted to turn the tide with late flurries. But Lapilus’ technical edge proved too much to overcome. (Source: Tapology)
A Major Win for Lapilus’ PFL Campaign
With this victory, Lapilus improves to 23–4, reaffirming his status as one of Europe’s most polished and experienced bantamweights. His performance in Lyon not only thrilled the French crowd but also positioned him as a legitimate threat for future PFL title contention.
For Gittins, now 13–5, the loss is a setback—but far from a derailment. His aggressive style and finishing ability ensure he remains a dangerous matchup for anyone in the division.
Final Thoughts
Taylor Lapilus delivered a masterclass in movement, timing, and striking discipline. Against a relentless opponent in Liam Gittins, he proved that technique and composure can dismantle pressure and chaos. If Lapilus continues performing at this level, he won’t just be a contender—he’ll be a problem for the entire PFL bantamweight roster.
