Charles Johnson vs Rafael Estevam — Fight recap

Rafael Estevam defeated Charles Johnson by unanimous decision over three rounds on November 18, 2023, in a bout where grappling and control time proved decisive. Johnson dominated the striking exchanges, landing 72 of 109 significant strikes (66%) with particular efficiency on the body, connecting on 27 of 33 attempts, but failed to secure any takedowns while managing only 43 seconds of control time.

Estevam countered with a wrestling-heavy approach, landing just 18 of 43 significant strikes (41%) but controlling 9:23 of the fight through three takedowns and sustained positional dominance, though he completed only one submission attempt. Johnson's striking prowess was neutralized by Estevam's ability to dictate pace and location, a tactical pattern that favored the grappler's octagon control despite the striking disparity.

The decision suggests that in this matchup, cage control and grappling pressure outweighed striking volume at this level.