What was anticipated to be a fierce battle between top light heavyweights on Saturday instead turned into a tactical matchup that played directly to Khalil Rountree Jr.’s strengths. In the headline bout of UFC’s debut event in Azerbaijan, Rountree (14-6, 1 NC) showcased the lessons learned from his courageous title fight loss to Alex Pereira last October. He patiently dismantled former champion Jamahal Hill (12-4, 1 NC), securing a unanimous decision victory with scores of 49-46 across the board, also earning the CBS Sports UFC Fight Night Headliner honors.
Rountree stated, “I didn’t underestimate Jamahal. I believed fully in myself and my skillset, but never underestimated him. The strategy was well-thought-out. I adjusted my approach based on mistakes I made against Alex, choosing not to rush relentlessly.” The 35-year-old Rountree was efficient, rarely staying in striking range long enough for Hill to mount effective offense. Hill, who won the vacant 205-pound title from Glover Teixeira in 2023 before relinquishing it due to injury, was pressed throughout the fight. Rountree consistently targeted Hill’s lead right side in this southpaw versus southpaw bout, disrupting Hill’s footwork by the second round and forcing him to adopt an orthodox stance.
With Hill unable to set up punches properly, his offense waned, allowing Rountree to capitalize with two flash knockdowns in round three through well-placed punches and counters. In the fourth round, Rountree caught Hill off guard with looping left hands and a body shot that dropped him for a third time. This third knockdown elevated Rountree past Hall of Famers Chuck Liddell and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua in significant UFC light heavyweight accomplishments.
Rountree did not aggressively pursue a finish, even as some fans voiced their displeasure over the lack of continuous action late in round four. Hill was unable to rally, failing to respond to his corner’s instructions before the final round, showing no urgency for a comeback. This victory marked Rountree’s resurgence after a rough patch post-2021, boosting his record to 6-1 in his last seven bouts and positioning him well for future title contention. With the division eagerly awaiting new champion Magomed Ankalaev’s defense against Pereira in a highly anticipated rematch later this year, Rountree declared readiness for any upcoming challenge.
Hill’s defeat extended his losing streak to three, following a 2024 title bout loss and a knockout defeat by Jiri Prochazka, who also lost to Pereira.
Fan Take: This win is a pivotal moment for Khalil Rountree Jr., reaffirming his place among the elite light heavyweights and adding intrigue to the division’s title picture. For fight fans, it signals a potential shake-up as Rountree proves he can adapt and overcome top competition, setting the stage for exciting matchups ahead.
