Andrei Arlovski vs Shamil Abdurakhimov — Fight recap

Shamil Abdurakhimov defeated Andrei Arlovski via unanimous decision after three rounds on September 15, 2018, with referee Leon Roberts overseeing the bout. Abdurakhimov's superior striking efficiency proved decisive, landing 32 of 70 significant strikes (45%) compared to Arlovski's 18 of 58 (31%), while controlling the cage for 3:25 versus Arlovski's 0:19.

Both fighters attempted similar wrestling entries—Arlovski connected on 2 of 3 takedowns (66%) while Abdurakhimov landed 2 of 4 (50%)—but Abdurakhimov's cleaner combinations and sustained pressure throughout the contest earned all three scorecards. The fight showcased Abdurakhimov's ability to maintain distance and volume against a veteran heavyweight, establishing himself as a legitimate contender in a division still searching for clear direction behind Stipe Miocic.