Carlos Felipe vs Justin Tafa — Fight recap

Carlos Felipe won a split decision over Justin Tafa in a three-round heavyweight bout on January 16, 2021, with referee Herb Dean officiating. Felipe landed 77 significant strikes at 54% accuracy while Tafa connected on 86 significant strikes at 58% accuracy, making it a competitive striking exchange throughout.

Neither fighter attempted takedowns successfully, with Felipe going 0-for-1 and Tafa 0-for-2, keeping the bout standing-focused. Tafa controlled the cage for 1:53 compared to Felipe's 0:41, yet Felipe's cleaner striking volume—particularly 46 head strikes and an efficient 28-of-36 body work—proved decisive on the scorecards.

The split decision reflected the fight's closeness, with judges ultimately favoring Felipe's output and precision over Tafa's cage control and slightly higher strike percentage. The result offered Felipe a quality heavyweight win while leaving Tafa searching for consistency in the division.