Ian McCall won his first fight in the UFC on Saturday night on the UFC 163 preliminary card as he defeated Illiarde Santos by unanimous decision. 
The action opened with McCall throwing leg kicks to set up his punches. Santos was able to counter the strikes of McCall by throwing body shots. They continued to strike with each other and McCall landed a left hook that stunned Santos.
The fight would end up going to the ground when Santos takedown was unsuccessful and McCall had top position. While in top, McCall landed several strikes and Santos gave up his back. Santos would get back to his feet and they would get back into a striking bout.
In the final minute of the round, McCall landed a head kick and Santos counter with a spinning back fist that missed. In the final 30 seconds, Santos wanted to turn the fight into a brawl but McCall did not engage and the fight moved into the second round.
They continued their striking battle as the second round opened and McCall continued to use his leg kicks to score. With McCall’s hands low, Santos was able to land several punches.
After striking for the first four minutes of the round, the fight went to the ground with Santos in top position. McCall was able to get back to his feet with 40 seconds left in the round and they ended the round by exchanging punches.
In the final round, they continued to strike with Santos landing a left hand in the opening 30 seconds that backed up McCall. After striking for another minute, McCall closed the distance and had the back of Santos. He would be unable to get any offense going on the ground and Santos was able to get back to his feet.
The remainder of the fight would stay on the feet with each guy landing strikes with McCall landing the more significant strikes. McCall (12-4-1) won the fight on all three judges scorecards and this is his first win since 2011. Santos (27-8-1, 1NC) has now dropped both of his fights in the UFC and will likely get another fight in the promotion.
UFC 163 Results:
Ian McCall def. Illiarde Santos via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)
Rani Yahya def. Josh Clopton via unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
Francimar Barroso def. Ednaldo Oliveira via unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)
Viscardi Andrade def. Bristol Marunde via TKO (strikes) – Round 1, 1:36