Andrew Tackett vs Vagner Rocha

Andrew Tackett defeated Vagner Rocha by unanimous decision in the main event of UFC BJJ 7: Tackett vs Rocha, retaining his 170-pound welterweight title for the third consecutive time. The age gap between the two was notable, with 43-year-old former UFC veteran Rocha taking on 22-year-old Tackett. Rocha brought a significant experience advantage into the match, but Tackett's speed and talent proved to be the deciding factors.

The two went to the mat immediately, with Tackett attempting an ankle pick that Rocha sprawled out of. Tackett then attempted a guillotine choke that Rocha managed to escape, and the two traded leg locks, with both men surviving. Tackett worked from top position through much of the first round, applying heavy pressure, and attempted an ankle lock late in the round that Rocha dismissed. The second round opened with Tackett rolling up to attempt a heel hook, which Rocha countered with an ankle lock of his own. Rocha defended effectively throughout the round and, in the final 60 seconds, worked his way inside Tackett's guard for the first time in the match, though there was not enough time remaining to find a finish.

In the third and final round, Tackett moved quickly into position and went in search of a rear-naked choke that Rocha defended. With the final minute winding down, Rocha attempted a last-gasp ankle lock, but Tackett defended through the final horn. The judges scored the match unanimously for Tackett, with his pace, third-round positional dominance, and a controlling body triangle down the stretch noted as key factors. Rocha's performance in defeat, giving a champion 21 years his junior the toughest test of his UFC BJJ career, earned him the respect of everyone inside the Meta APEX.