Curtis Blaydes vs Justin Willis — Fight recap

Curtis Blaydes dominated Justin Willis via unanimous decision over three rounds on March 23, 2019, controlling the bout through superior wrestling and striking volume. Blaydes landed 22 of 33 significant strikes at 66% accuracy while accumulating 11 minutes and 44 seconds of control time, dictating pace from top position.

He successfully executed 7 of 11 takedown attempts at 63% efficiency, keeping Willis grounded for extended stretches. Willis managed only 2 of 9 significant strikes at 22% accuracy with zero takedown attempts and no time in control, unable to mount any offensive sequence.

Blaydes' leg kicks proved particularly effective, landing all 11 attempts to wear down Willis's mobility. The lopsided performance showcased Blaydes' wrestling-based approach against an opponent who lacked the defensive grappling to mount a credible threat.

The victory solidified Blaydes' position in the heavyweight rankings and set up potential matchups against higher-ranked contenders.