Nunes defends bantamweight title with 5th-round TKO of Pennington

Amanda Nunes defended her UFC bantamweight title, defeating Raquel Pennington via TKO (punches) in the fifth round at UFC 224.

Nunes was in control of the fight from the outset, landing numerous blows during the first round, and dictated the pace of the contest entirely. The defending champion attacked Pennington's lower leg vigorously, taking full advantage of her vulnerability later in the contest.

Nunes continued to attack Pennington with punches, then brutalized her with multiple knees in the fourth round. Pennington's legs appeared to give way with under a minute remaining in the fourth round, and she was heard telling her corner that she was done after the bell rang, but was convinced to come back for the final round.

By the fifth round, the fight was over for all intents and purposes, and Nunes ended the bout with a storm of punches.

It was Nunes' third career title defense, previously fending off Ronda Rousey and Valentina Shevchenko. Nunes appeared elated after the fight, marking her first title defense in her home country of Brazil.

Saturday's contest between Nunes and Pennington was the first time in UFC history that two openly gay fighters competed for a title.

Nunes entered the fight as a 10-1 favorite and the gulf in class was on full display in what was a confirmation of her overall dominance. With the victory, Nunes moved to 16-4, while Pennington dropped to 9-6.