UFC on FOX 24’s main card kicked off with a featherweight bout between Jeremy Stephens and Renato Moicano. In the biggest win of his rising career, Moicano won the split decision over the #5-ranked Stephens with his superior striking, effective wrestling, and excellent footwork.

Moicano was aggressive with leg kicks to start the fight. He had Stephens chasing him and missing with his power punches. Stephens occasionally switched stances, so Moicano was kicking both legs. Stephens was searching for the right hand and only landing it sporadically. Moicano changed levels and took him down just before the final minute of the round and just controlled him from top position without getting off too much offense on the mat.

Stephens sought the takedown to start round 2 but the Brazilian stopped it and then drilled him with a big right hand. Lil’ Heathen walked Moicano down and let his hands go but didn’t land anything convincing. He did throw some punishing leg kicks of his own. Moicano’s movement was frustrating Stephens. Renato jabbed Stephens and kept himself moving laterally. There wasn’t too much connecting from either man for one of those two to convincingly say they won the round.

Moicano took Stephens down in round 3 but Jeremy did well to get back up. Stephens and Moicano traded leg kicks, and Moicano’s were clearly stronger. The jabbing of Moicano bloodied Stephens’ nose. Stephens finally clipped Moicano with a good right hand and he knew he had to up the urgency. The crowd was annoyed at what they believed to be a lack of willingness to engage by Moicano. They also booed the decision, which went to Moicano, who gets the upset over Stephens.

Official result: Renato Moicano def. Jeremy Stephens by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)