The tension inside the Ultimate Fighter house continued to mount in Episode 7 of Season 33, as Team Chael Sonnen`s Roybert Echeverria faced off against Team Daniel Cormier`s Tumelo Manyamala in a flyweight quarterfinal bout. The outcome saw Team Sonnen gain crucial ground, while coach Cormier was left visibly frustrated by his fighter`s performance.
The Fight: Early Momentum Shift
From the opening bell, Tumelo Manyamala showcased his speed and striking prowess, effectively controlling the distance and landing crisp counter-punches. His strategy paid dividends in the first round, culminating in a well-timed right hand that momentarily dropped Echeverria. Despite the knockdown, Echeverria recovered and saw the round through, though clearly behind on the judges` theoretical scorecards.
Between rounds, the corner advice proved pivotal. With Team Sonnen`s guidance, Echeverria was instructed to intensify his pursuit of takedowns, aiming to neutralize Manyamala`s striking advantage and bring the fight into his domain.
Execution and Finish
Echeverria heeded his corner`s words, entering the second round with a clear strategic adjustment. He repeatedly sought to close the distance and initiate grappling exchanges. While Manyamala successfully defended the initial takedown attempts, Echeverria`s persistence paid off on the third effort, securing the crucial takedown. Once the fight hit the mat, Echeverria`s control was absolute. He transitioned effectively, ultimately securing back control and sinking in a rear-naked choke. Manyamala had no choice but to tap, handing Echeverria the victory and a spot in the flyweight semifinals.
Coach`s Corner: Cormier`s Disappointment
For Daniel Cormier, the result was a bitter pill to swallow. This marked the second consecutive week a fighter from his team fell short after showing promise or failing to maintain strategic discipline under pressure. Cormier expressed his disappointment directly to Manyamala, highlighting the missed opportunity and the frustration of seeing a winnable fight slip away. His message was stark: use the feeling of defeat as motivation and a critical learning experience to avoid repeating similar tactical errors.
Roybert Echeverria`s performance was perhaps bolstered by the presence of former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker, who served as a guest coach for Team Sonnen during the episode. Whittaker`s insights seemingly contributed to the successful strategic shift that led to Echeverria`s win.
Team Standings and Upcoming Bouts
Echeverria`s victory brings the overall team score to 4-3 in favor of Team Cormier, with both coaches now having two representatives each in the flyweight semifinals. The competition remains incredibly tight.
Looking ahead, the next episode features a pivotal welterweight clash. Team Sonnen`s Diego Bianchini will face Team Cormier`s Rodrigo Sezinando. This matchup pits the respective teams` number one welterweight picks against each other, promising another high-stakes encounter that could see Chael Sonnen tie the series score.
As the season progresses towards its live finale, the remaining fighters are keenly aware that a life-changing six-figure UFC contract awaits the tournament winners in both the flyweight and welterweight divisions.
