GLENDALE, Ariz. – Pannie Kianzad beat Alexis Davis with a unanimous decision Saturday on the preliminary card at UFC 263 in Glendale, Ariz.
Take a look inside the fight with Kianzad, who picked up her fourth straight win.
Alexis Davis vs. Pannie Kianzad
Jun 12, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Pannie Kianzad celebrates her victory against Alexis Davis during UFC 263 at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Result: Pannie Kianzad def. Alexis Davis via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Updated records: Kianzad (15-5 MMA, 4-2 UFC), Davis (20-11 MMA, 7-6 UFC)
Key stat: Davis won the striking battle 147-124 in a fight in which both women landed 50 percent or more of their total strikes.
Kianzad on the fight’s key moment
Jun 12, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Pannie Kianzad lands a hit against Alexis Davis during UFC 263 at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
“It was good. I mean, I felt I had sharp hands. I had to stay aware of what she is really good at, so that made me a bit hesitant. I felt I got some good pops in my hands, so I’m pretty happy about the fight.
“She kicks pretty hard. I hit her with a couple of right hands. I thought that was it, but no, it was not it. She was really tough, but I felt sharp.”
Kianzad on being underestimated
Jun 12, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Alexis Davis lands a hit against Pannie Kianzad during UFC 263 at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
“I think people need to be aware of my speed and my determination. I had a rocky start for a couple years ago. Nobody thought I would be here, but I’m here to stay. I’m not only looking to compete for a title – I want to a win a title. That’s the difference.”
Kianzad on what she wants next
“Those are the fights I want, and that’s why I’m trying to win – so I can make those opportunities a reality, so I can ask for this stuff. If you don’t win, then you can’t ask for this stuff.
“(Raquel Pennington and I) were scheduled to fight (Saturday). It would make sense to fight in August. That’s what I heard she wanted. The doc said I could be ready for August, so yes, that would be nice.”
To hear more from Kianzad, check out the video of the full post-fight interview above.