Devhonte Johnson vs Arya Esfandmaz

Devhonte Johnson and Arya Esfandmaz both came into their Polaris 12 matchup preferring the top game. Neither competitor showed much urgency in the stand-up, with a lot of head holding and tentative, uncommitted shots keeping the early exchanges cautious.

Esfandmaz eventually guard pulled to try to get the match moving, but Johnson passed his guard quickly, forcing the Londoner to turtle before returning to his feet. While that exchange drew appreciation from viewers, it likely cost Esfandmaz points on the judges' scorecards.