Brad Tavares vs Caio Magalhaes — Fight recap

Brad Tavares won a split decision over Caio Magalhaes in the third round on September 10, 2016, in a middleweight contest that hinged on striking efficiency. Tavares landed 46 significant strikes at 46% accuracy, notably effective with his leg strikes (16 of 19), while Magalhaes managed only 26 significant strikes at 32% despite attempting seven takedowns and landing one.

Control time favored Magalhaes slightly at 2:47 to Tavares's 2:00, yet Tavares's superior accuracy and volume on the feet—particularly his leg attack—proved decisive with the split judges' scorecards. Neither fighter secured a knockdown, and Magalhaes's single submission attempt failed to materially shift momentum.

The bout showcased a classic striker-versus-grappler dynamic, with Tavares's precision standup work ultimately outpointing Magalhaes's wrestling-heavy approach. The victory kept Tavares in middleweight contention during a competitive era at 185 pounds.