UFC Fight Night 260 : Navajo Stirling vs Rodolfo Bellato

Navajo Stirling entered the Octagon with an undefeated record, carrying the momentum of his previous bouts into the matchup against Rodolfo Bellato. From the opening bell, Stirling showcased his sharp striking, combining crisp jabs with well-timed front kicks that consistently kept Bellato at a distance. His footwork was fluid, allowing him to circle out of danger while maintaining pressure, demonstrating a tactical approach that emphasized both defense and offense.

Bellato attempted to impose his experience early, pushing the pace with aggressive combinations and seeking to close the distance. However, Stirling’s defensive awareness neutralized Bellato’s attacks, as he effectively blocked and countered punches while landing precise hooks to the body. In the second round, Stirling surprised many by executing a clean takedown, briefly controlling Bellato on the ground and showcasing his well-rounded MMA skill set beyond striking.

Throughout the fight, Stirling maintained control of the tempo, dictating exchanges and forcing Bellato into reactive positions. Despite moments where Bellato landed sharp shots, Stirling’s movement and timing minimized the impact, allowing him to dominate the striking exchanges. His ability to mix striking and grappling threats kept Bellato guessing, highlighting the versatility that makes Stirling a rising contender in the light heavyweight division.

Bellato, while resilient and determined, struggled to find openings against Stirling’s calculated approach. His attempts at aggressive flurries and clinch work were met with disciplined counters, and he was unable to sustain momentum for extended periods. The Brazilian fighter’s corner urged for adjustments, but Stirling’s composure and consistency throughout the 15-minute fight left little room for Bellato to recover or turn the tide.

By the final bell, the judges awarded a unanimous decision to Navajo Stirling with scores of 30–27, 30–27, and 29–28. The victory not only preserved Stirling’s perfect record at 8–0 but also highlighted his adaptability, technical precision, and mental toughness. As Stirling continues his climb in the light heavyweight rankings, this performance reinforces his status as a serious prospect with a well-rounded game capable of challenging more experienced opponents in future UFC bouts.