Donald Cerrone vs Rafael Dos Anjos — Fight recap

Rafael Dos Anjos defeated Donald Cerrone by unanimous decision over three rounds on August 28, 2013, in a lightweight bout that showcased contrasting approaches. Cerrone landed 40 of 80 significant strikes at 50% accuracy and converted his only takedown attempt, but Dos Anjos controlled the cage for 3:50 compared to Cerrone's 1:00, establishing dominance through positional wrestling.

Dos Anjos landed 39 of 109 significant strikes at 35% efficiency while securing 2 of 6 takedown attempts and recording one knockdown that proved decisive on the scorecards. Cerrone's leg kick volume—10 of 12 attempts—represented his most effective striking avenue, yet Dos Anjos' superior control time and clinch work neutralized the striking exchanges.

All three judges awarded the fight to Dos Anjos, validating his grappling-heavy strategy over Cerrone's more varied but less efficient striking output. The victory elevated Dos Anjos' profile in the lightweight division and signaled his readiness for higher-ranked competition.