Imavov Hands Brendan Allen First Loss Since 2021
Brendan Allen entered Paris on a seven-fight winning streak, but Nassourdine Imavov outpointed him over three rounds on Sept. 28, 2024. Allen offered no excuses afterward and called it a poor performance. Since then, he has rebuilt momentum and now has another high-profile matchup scheduled.
A candid reaction after Paris
Imavov’s takedown defense helped him control the co-main event at Accor Arena, earning a unanimous decision. Allen later wrote, “Wasn’t my night,” and criticized his own showing in a post-fight message. He also said he still believed he could become champion. MMA Fighting covered Allen’s reaction; the official fighter record lists the result.
How Allen responded
Allen’s first comeback attempt ended in a decision loss to Anthony Hernandez in February 2025. He then beat Marvin Vettori by unanimous decision in July 2025, stopped Reinier de Ridder late in Round 4 in October, and earned another decision win over Edmen Shahbazyan in June 2026. Those results have put him back in the contender conversation. His official record tracks the run.
The next test
At UFC Vegas 122 on Oct. 10, 2026, Allen faced Christian Leroy Duncan in the main event and won by rear-naked choke at 2:46 of Round 5. The win extended Allen’s streak to four, and he called out former champion Dricus du Plessis afterward. Official results.
