Tai Tuivasa came within one scorecard of ending his losing streak at UFC 331, but Robelis Despaigne left Los Angeles with the split decision victory.
Two judges scored the heavyweight fight 29 to 28 for Despaigne. The third judge scored it 29 to 28 for Tuivasa. The result gave Despaigne the win after all three rounds and left Tuivasa with another difficult defeat.
Another loss, but a much closer result
Tuivasa entered UFC 331 after seven consecutive losses. Saturday's decision extends that skid to eight. His last victory came in February 2022, when he knocked out Derrick Lewis during the best run of his UFC career.
This result was far closer than the raw streak suggests. Tuivasa convinced one judge that he had done enough to win and finished only one round away on either of the other two scorecards. That may matter when the UFC decides what comes next.
What happens to Tuivasa now?
Tuivasa remains one of the most recognizable personalities in the heavyweight division. His knockout power, walkouts and connection with fans have kept him popular even while the results have moved in the wrong direction.
The UFC has not announced a decision about his future. Eight consecutive losses would normally put any fighter's roster spot in serious danger, but Tuivasa's drawing power and the close nature of this fight make the decision less automatic.
Despaigne secured the official result. Tuivasa now has to wait for a different verdict.
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Should the UFC bring Tai Tuivasa back for another fight?