Tyson Nam removed from UFC after tough battle with Azat Maksum

The UFC bid farewell to longtime veteran Tyson Nam following a thrilling flyweight clash on the UFC Vegas 77 preliminary card. The 39-year-old fighter faced off against the undefeated 16-0 prospect Azat Maksum in what turned out to be Nam’s final bout in the promotion. The high-stakes matchup not only tested Maksum’s perfect record but also determined Nam’s future in the UFC.

The opening round saw both fighters feeling each other out cautiously. Maksum showed aggression but struggled to land significant strikes, while Nam opted for a counter-attacking approach. Nam’s right hand connected a few times, and he displayed his expertise in leg kicks, temporarily disrupting Maksum’s balance. However, as the round came to a close, Maksum accelerated his output, connecting with powerful right hands and kicks, and securing a takedown just before the bell.

The second round witnessed a more dynamic exchange, with both fighters loosening up and opening up with their striking. Maksum managed to stagger Tyson Nam with a well-placed right hand, but the experienced fighter quickly recovered and retaliated with a combination of his own. Nonetheless, Maksum began to dominate the round with an increased repertoire of attacks, utilizing kicks, knees, and punches to gain the upper hand.

Entering the final round, Maksum showcased his prowess with a stunning right-left combination, causing damage to Nam’s right eye with quick jabs. As the round progressed, Maksum maintained his aggressive approach, outstriking Nam in volume. While Nam found some success while moving forward, Maksum’s takedown attempt was unsuccessful. Nam landed a powerful right hand and a chopping leg kick, and Maksum responded with two significant slams to end the round.

Still undefeated! 😤

Azat Maksum takes the split decision in his debut. #UFCVegas77 pic.twitter.com/oysmbCepmb

— UFC (@ufc) July 16, 2023

In a contest that could have gone either way, the judges’ scorecards revealed a split decision in favor of Azat Maksum, preserving his unbeaten record and elevating it to 17-0.

The outcome, however, brought with it significant implications for Tyson Nam. At 39 years old and following two consecutive losses, including the recent bout with Maksum, the flyweight fighter’s future in the UFC is uncertain. Nam boasts a professional record of 21-14-1 (3-5 in the UFC) with 13 knockout/technical knockout victories (3 in the UFC). Among his notable victories are those against Ode Osbourne, Jerome Rivers, and Zarrukh Adashev.

As the dust settles on UFC Vegas 77, the promotion is yet to officially confirm Tyson Nam’s status, with rumors swirling about a potential retirement decision. If this turns out to be the end of his UFC journey, Nam’s contributions to the flyweight division will be remembered, and his legacy will inspire future fighters for years to come.

Official Result: Azat Maksum def. Tyson Nam by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Tyson Nam v Azat Maksum Fight Stats

Tyson Nam

Total Strikes: 98 (40%)
33% (27) to the Head
23% (19) to the Body
43% (35) to the Legs
Signature Strikes: 81
Takedowns: 0
Submission Attempts: 0

Azat Maksum

Total Strikes: 46 (24%)
72% (33) to the Head
26% (12) to the Body
2% (1) to the Legs
Signature Strikes: 46
Takedowns: 2 of 11 (18%)
Submission Attempts: 0

(Fight statistics provided by official UFC records)

More sports & gambling news