As the much smaller man, Almabayev retreated and circled to start the fight. Johnson remained patient because of the wrestling threat but felt his way forward behind kicks.
Almabayev opened round two with a surprise spinning kick that landed on Johnson's chin. He then shot but Johnson got on top in a high mount, which allowed Almabayev to wrestle up and end on top.
When Asu did get out, he instantly got on the back of Johnson and instantly went on the attack. Johnson turned and forced Almabayev to go to mount, where Jose was able to regain butterfly and then full guard.
Johnson's cardio level bore watching coming into the final round given his history at higher weight classes. Almabayev opened with a...
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