Benardo Sopaj vs Ricky Turcios — Fight recap

Benardo Sopaj defeated Ricky Turcios via unanimous decision over three rounds on January 18, 2025, with referee Frank Trigg officiating. Sopaj's superior striking efficiency proved decisive, landing 81 of 139 significant strikes (58%) compared to Turcios's 78 of 144 (54%), while controlling the fight through effective grappling—converting 2 of 3 takedown attempts (66%) and accumulating 2:30 of control time.

Turcios struggled with takedown defense, successfully stuffing only 1 of 9 attempts (11%), and managed just 1:56 of control. Sopaj also scored a knockdown and landed 64 head strikes out of 117, establishing a clear striking advantage despite Turcios's aggressive output in volume.

The decision reflected Sopaj's more efficient striking accuracy and wrestling control throughout the bout. This victory positions Sopaj as a rising prospect in the division with improved grappling integration.