Image Source: Jed Meshew
Key Takeaways
- Kyle Dake defeats Magomedkhabib Kadimagomedov via decision (10-7) to retain the RAF cruiserweight title
- The match was a highly contested and action-packed bout, with both men showcasing their exceptional wrestling skills
- Dake’s experience and defensive prowess ultimately proved to be the deciding factor in the match
- Kadimagomedov put up a strong fight, but was unable to overcome Dake’s skill and strategy
- The two men showed a noticeable amount of heat and tension after the match, with Kadimagomedov saying something to Dake that the champion chose not to disclose
Introduction to the Match
The highly anticipated co-main event of RAF 5 took place on Saturday night at Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, featuring Kyle Dake versus Magomedkhabib Kadimagomedov. As the live blog noted, "Kyle Dake is one of the most decorated wrestlers of his generation, being just the fourth man to win four Division-I National Championships, and the first to do so in four different weight classes." With his impressive credentials, Dake was looking to defend his RAF cruiserweight title against the formidable Kadimagomedov. The Russian and Belarusian freestyle wrestler, known for his silver medal win at the 2020 Olympics, was seeking to dethrone the champion and claim the title for himself.
The Early Going
The match began with both men engaging in intense hand-fighting, each attempting to gain the upper hand. As the live blog described, "Immediate hand-fighting to start, with both men trying to get grips on the head, but neither giving up position." Dake’s forward pressure was evident, but Kadimagomedov’s defense was stout, and the first period ended with Dake leading 1-0. The action was slow to develop, with neither man able to gain a significant advantage. Kadimagomedov did manage to land a decent shot, but Dake’s defensive skills allowed him to spin away and avoid any real damage.
The Turning Point
The second period saw a slight increase in aggression from both men, with Kadimagomedov shooting in off the hand-fight. However, Dake’s defense held strong, and he was able to defend against the attack. The live blog noted, "Kadik tries an ankle pick but Dake steps out easily, and the referee stops it to put a shot clock on as the action is just not going." The introduction of the shot clock added an extra layer of urgency to the match, and Dake responded by reversing a suplex and taking Kadimagomedov to the back. Although Kadimagomedov tapped out, the match did not end, as submissions are not allowed in this type of competition.
The Final Period
The third and final period saw Kadimagomedov come out with increased aggression, driven by his desire to mount a comeback. As the live blog described, "Kadik is behind and he comes out with aggression and almost immediately gets a clean takedown on Dake!" The judges initially awarded Kadimagomedov a step-out point, but later changed it to two points. Kadimagomedov continued to press the issue, but Dake’s defensive skills and experience ultimately proved to be too much. The champion locked in defensively, tying up Kadimagomedov’s hands and working to control the head position. The live blog noted, "Dake got low and onto a leg but Kadik now overtop of him and has a chest lock, bringing Dake over for back exposure!" However, Dake was able to counter and expose Kadimagomedov’s back, leading to a 8-5 advantage.
The Conclusion
In the end, Dake’s skill and strategy proved to be too much for Kadimagomedov, as he emerged victorious via decision (10-7). As the live blog noted, "Dake wins 10-7 in an action-packed matched! Kyle Dake def. Magomedkhabib Kadimagomedov via decision (10-7) to retain the RAF cruiserweight title." The match was a testament to the exceptional wrestling skills of both men, and the tension between them was palpable after the final buzzer. When asked about Kadimagomedov’s comments after the match, Dake chose not to disclose what was said, instead stating that he was ready to take on his next challenge. As he said, "I’m ready to take on whoever, whenever, wherever."
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