UFC Mexico City had a high-octane co-main event as lightweights Manuel Torres and Drew Dober faced off. Fans packed the CDMX Arena on March 29, 2025, eager to see if Dober could rebound from a recent string of losses or if Torres would continue his rise in the lightweight division.
Right from the start, it was clear that both fighters were looking to make a statement. Drew Dober, with a wealth of experience in the octagon, threw out a jab, trying to establish his rhythm. However, it was Manuel Torres who quickly seized control of the fight. The 30-year-old Mexican fighter, known for his explosive style, landed a powerful front kick to the body followed by a crisp 1-2 combination that sent Dober crashing to the canvas.
The early knockdown came less than two minutes into the first round, showcasing Torres's striking prowess. Referee Mike Beltran allowed Dober some time to recover, but the veteran fighter appeared confused and disoriented, clinging to Torres’s leg in a desperate attempt to regain his footing. As Torres unleashed a flurry of hammer fists, it became evident that Dober was in trouble.
Despite Dober’s attempts to hold on, he was unable to mount any significant defense, and Beltran ultimately stepped in to halt the action at 1:45 of Round 1, awarding Torres a TKO victory. The stoppage, while perhaps slightly late, was deemed appropriate given Dober's lack of movement and the severity of the strikes he absorbed.
In his post-fight interview, Torres expressed his gratitude, stating, “I wouldn’t be able to do this without all of you,” as he thanked his coaches, team, and family for their support. He also called for a post-fight bonus from UFC President Dana White, asking him to open up the pocketbook following what he described as the biggest win of his career.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for Torres, who had suffered a TKO loss to Ignacio Bahamondes at UFC 306 last September, snapping a six-fight winning streak. With this win, Torres improved his professional record to 16-3 and solidified his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the lightweight division.
For Drew Dober, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. At 36 years old, he has now lost three consecutive fights, including a previous TKO loss to Jean Silva last July. Dober’s record now stands at 27-15, and he will need to regroup and reassess his strategy if he hopes to return to form in the UFC.
As the night unfolded, fans were treated to a thrilling display of mixed martial arts, and the co-main event certainly lived up to the hype. Torres’s ability to finish fights has made him a fan favorite, and with four of his five UFC victories coming by way of stoppage, he is quickly becoming a fighter to watch in the lightweight ranks.
Looking ahead, the question now looms: who will Manuel Torres face next? With his momentum building, there are plenty of intriguing matchups available that could further elevate his status in the UFC. Meanwhile, Drew Dober will need to reflect on his recent performances and find a way to reignite his career in the octagon.
Overall, UFC Mexico City delivered a memorable night of fights, and the co-main event between Torres and Dober was a perfect showcase of the excitement and unpredictability that the sport of mixed martial arts offers. As fans continue to rally behind their favorite fighters, the lightweight division remains as competitive and thrilling as ever.
