Hermansson returns to win column with decision over Shahbazyan

Jack Hermansson defeated Edmen Shahbazyan via unanimous decision (29-27, 29-27, 29-27) in a middleweight bout at UFC Fight Night on Saturday in Las Vegas.

Hermansson, who previously lost to Marvin Vettori in December, handed Shahbazyan his second straight defeat.

Shahbazyan got off to a good start in the main-card opener, pummeling Hermansson with crisp shots on the feet.

The second round was competitive. Hermansson controlled Shahbazyan on the mat before Shahbazyan reversed the position and landed ground-and-pound in the closing seconds.

But Hermansson sealed the deal with a dominant third round, taking down Shahbazyan about a minute in and not allowing him to return to his feet. Hermansson rained down punches and elbows at will while Shahbazyan struggled to improve his position. The 32-year-old advanced to full mount late in the round but he couldn't stop Shahbazyan before the fight ended.

Hermansson, the No. 7-ranked middleweight, is now 2-2 in his past four outings. He was in the title conversation before losing to Vettori.

Shahbazyan, who's ranked No. 10 and considered a top prospect in the division, previously lost to Derek Brunson via third-round TKO last August. The 23-year-old started his Octagon career with four straight victories.