UFC

Iwo Baraniewski defeated at UFC 331. Menifield won by split decision

Jakub

Published: 20 September 2026

Another major test for Iwo Baraniewski in the UFC Octagon! The undefeated “Rudy” faced Alonzo Menifield at UFC 331, taking on one of the most experienced opponents of his career to date.

Baraniewski got off to a great start in the world’s largest MMA organization. The Pole quickly made his mark in the light heavyweight division, showcasing tremendous striking power and finishing one fight after another without needing to wait for the judges’ decision. Menifield, however, was set to be a completely different test for him.

The American had been competing in the UFC for years and knew full well how to finish fights with powerful strikes. So, two fighters with formidable striking skills faced off. Baraniewski wanted to keep his winning streak alive, while Menifield intended to use his experience to stop the red-hot Pole.

UFC 331: Baraniewski vs. Menifield – Fight Recap

Round 1 – Menifield tried to land a right hook to the Pole’s jaw within the first few seconds. Iwo blocked a few punches, threatened with a left, and landed a right. In the process, he took a kick to the calf. “Rudy” couldn’t find his rhythm; he dodged the American’s right hand well, as the American was gaining momentum with every passing second. A missed kick by the Pole, followed immediately by a good counterattack. A good right from Menifield, which Baraniewski countered a moment later. Another accurate punch from Baraniewski. A clinch, a knee to the torso from “Rudy,” and Menifield turned the tables. A good left from Menifield, but Baraniewski immediately countered with a combination! A bloodied Iwo knocked down the American, who was clinging to him. The Pole caught his opponent in a grip and landed a powerful hook. A right-to-left combination, followed by a strong left from Baraniewski, who made it past the first round for the first time.

Round 2 – Menifield didn’t keep us waiting again. The American unleashed a flurry of hooks and uppercuts on the Pole. Baraniewski put up a good defense, turning his opponent around against the ropes. “Rudy” landed knees to “Atomic’s” torso, who also took a left. Menifield broke free, however, and landed a right on Iwo. Straight punch after straight punch—the two men didn’t hold back for even a second. Baraniewski landed a left! Menifield dropped his guard but still landed a powerful blow on the Pole. Iwo was breathing heavily and had to watch out for the American’s dangerous flurry. Baraniewski was looking for a one-punch knockout, but at the same time was having significant trouble breathing.

Round 3 — Menifield stepped into the ring despite a broken thumb. Baraniewski landed a left-right combination on him, knocking the American down, but was unable to keep him on the canvas. Neither fighter had the strength for further exchanges, so they locked up in a clinch against the cage. Menifield repeatedly attacked with his knee. Baraniewski finally turned the tables and landed a knee to Menifield’s head. A powerful right from the Pole, who was focusing on a tight clinch. After breaking free, Menifield looked to finish off Baraniewski, who was having trouble dodging. Iwo was panting heavily; he landed another left and right to the jaw… …and wildly missed with a desperate backfist. “Rudy” was just waiting for the final bell. Menifield was still throwing everything he had with his fists, but in the end, the judges had to decide the outcome…

Result: Alonzo Menifield won by split decision.