Brad Tavares edges Eryk Anders in UFC Vegas 114 clash

Veteran middleweight Tavares outpoints Anders in close three-round fight

Mar. 12, 2026 at 5:50pm

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In the co-main event of UFC Vegas 114, veteran middleweight Brad Tavares defeated Eryk Anders by unanimous decision in a closely contested three-round fight. Tavares used his technical striking and defensive wrestling to outpoint the explosive Anders over the course of the fight.

Why it matters

This win keeps Tavares firmly in the middle of the UFC's crowded middleweight division, while Anders falls to 2-2 in his last four fights as he looks to regain the form that made him a top prospect early in his career.

The details

Tavares (22-11) used his jab, low kicks, and disciplined footwork to control the distance and tempo of the fight. While Anders (17-10) landed some heavy shots early, Tavares was able to avoid the big power punches and chip away with volume striking. Neither fighter was able to secure prolonged control or dominant grappling, keeping the fight primarily on the feet. In the end, Tavares' technical edge and higher output earned him the unanimous decision victory (29-28, 29-28, 29-28).

  • The fight took place on March 12, 2026 at UFC Vegas 114 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The players

Brad Tavares

A 34-year-old veteran middleweight who has been a fixture in the UFC since 2010, known for his well-rounded skills and durable chin.

Eryk Anders

A 35-year-old middleweight who was once considered a top prospect, but has had an up-and-down run in the UFC, alternating wins and losses in his last six fights.

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What they’re saying

“Brad Tavares is just too technical and experienced for me right now. I need to go back, work on some things, and come back stronger.”

— Eryk Anders, UFC Middleweight

The takeaway

This fight highlighted the difference between a seasoned, well-rounded veteran like Tavares and a still-developing fighter like Anders. While Anders has the raw power and athleticism to be a threat, Tavares' technical skills and fight IQ allowed him to control the pace and tempo to earn the decision victory.