Khalil Rountree Jr. delivered arguably the most impressive performance of his career on Saturday, outclassing former light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill en route to a dominant unanimous decision victory in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Baku, Azerbaijan. The win marked a significant moment for Rountree and solidified his position among the division’s elite.
From the opening bell, Rountree (14-6) took firm control of the octagon, employing a highly effective and measured strategy that left Hill struggling to find his rhythm. A key weapon for Rountree was his persistent attack on Hill’s lead leg with powerful low kicks. This consistent damage visibly hampered Hill, forcing him to frequently switch stances and diminishing the threat of his natural southpaw offense. By the later rounds, Hill was visibly limping, barely able to put weight on the injured leg.
Rountree’s tactical pressure culminated in the third round when he dropped Hill twice. The first knockdown came roughly two minutes in with a clean counter left hook, followed by a second knockdown from a right hook in the final 30 seconds of the frame. Despite being floored, Hill displayed grit and continued, but Rountree maintained his advantage throughout the remaining rounds.
The judges’ scorecards reflected Rountree’s comprehensive dominance, reading 50-45, 50-45, and 49-46, all in his favor.
A Championship-Level Approach
Beyond the power on display, Rountree’s performance highlighted a significant evolution in his approach. Following a competitive fourth-round knockout loss to Alex Pereira in a title challenge last October, Rountree adopted a more technical and strategic mindset for this bout.
“I didn’t come in here underestimating Jamahal,” Rountree stated in his post-fight comments. “I had full belief in myself and my abilities, but the plan was to be smart. I made some mistakes in the Alex fight. This was a time to make different decisions. I don’t have to go, go, go all the time. If I’m winning a round, I can secure that and be a smart, professional, championship-level fighter.”
This composed approach, combined with his striking acumen, proved highly effective. According to UFC Stats, Rountree significantly outlanded Hill in total strikes, connecting on 94 compared to Hill’s 63.
Tying a Light Heavyweight Record
The two knockdowns in the third round were not just pivotal moments in the fight; they also etched Rountree’s name into the UFC record books. The knockdowns brought his career total to 14, tying him with retired legends Chuck Liddell and Mauricio “Shogun” Rua for the most knockdowns in UFC light heavyweight history.
For Jamahal Hill (12-4, 1 NC), the loss marks his third consecutive defeat. This challenging period began after he vacated his title due to an Achilles injury in July 2023. His return saw knockout losses to Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka before this decision loss to Rountree, a stark contrast to Rountree’s building momentum.
Rountree, who entered the fight ranked No. 7 against Hill’s No. 4 ranking, had previously built a strong five-fight winning streak before his title shot. His victory over a former champion like Hill significantly elevates his standing in the division.
Looking ahead, Rountree made his intentions clear. “I want to be champion,” he declared. “I know there are things that need to be done, but for me, if I had to fight Ankalaev next, I would do it. Whatever gets me closer to fighting for the belt again.” Current champion Magomed Ankalaev took the belt from Pereira in March.
This dominant showing in UFC’s debut event in Azerbaijan positions Khalil Rountree Jr. firmly in the light heavyweight title picture, showcasing a fighter who has refined his strategy while retaining his explosive power.
