One of the most remarkable runs in UFC history continues, but after much more difficulty than expected. Alex Pereira methodically broke down a game Khalil Rountree Jr. and used a bruising sequence of body punches to retain his light heavyweight championship with a fourth-round stoppage Saturday night in the main event of UFC 307 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City.

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Alex Pereira retained the UFC light heavyweight crown by beating Khalil Rountree Jr. by TKO with 28 seconds left in the fourth round at UFC 307 on Saturday night. It was the fourth straight title bout for Pereira (12-2) and his third consecutive successful title defense.

The MMA community reacted with praise to Alex Pereira’s record-setting title defense over Khalil Rountree in the UFC 307 main event.