Jairzinho Rozenstruik Outlasts Tai Tuivasa in Split Decision Victory at UFC 305

UFC 305: Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs. Tai Tuivasa

Jairzinho Rozenstruik continued his winning streak at UFC 305, securing a split decision victory over Tai Tuivasa in a closely contested heavyweight bout. The fight, held at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, showcased Rozenstruik’s striking prowess and composure, despite a controversial scorecard that left many fans puzzled.

Rozenstruik, now 2-0 in 2024, entered the octagon determined to build on his recent win over Shamil Gaziev. From the outset, the fight was a striking battle, with both fighters exchanging blows from a distance and occasionally engaging in the pocket. The most intense action occurred in the second round, where both Rozenstruik and Tuivasa landed powerful punches that visibly impacted each other. Tuivasa, in particular, displayed his trademark toughness, but he was visibly bloodied by the end of the round.

In a bid to turn the tide, Tuivasa attempted to channel his inner Max Holloway by pointing to the ground in the final seconds, signaling Rozenstruik to stand and trade in a wild exchange. However, this gesture led to more evasion than engagement, as both fighters focused on defense in the closing moments of the round.

The judges’ scorecards reflected the competitive nature of the fight, but the split decision was unexpected. While two judges scored the bout 29-28 and 30-27 in favor of Rozenstruik, Judge Howie Booth’s 30-27 score for Tuivasa raised eyebrows. Despite the confusing scorecard, Rozenstruik walked away with the win, improving his UFC record to 9-5.

Rozenstruik’s victory solidifies his position as a top contender in the heavyweight division, but for Tuivasa, the loss marks his fifth consecutive defeat. The Australian heavyweight, once on a five-fight winning streak, now faces the challenge of breaking out of his current slump.

After the fight, Rozenstruik expressed satisfaction with his performance, even as he acknowledged the unusual scoring. With this victory, he has now won two of his last three fights and remains a formidable force in the UFC’s heavyweight division.