Round 1
Brilz is moving forward while Marshall circles round the outside throwing jabs. Marshall plants and throws a three-punch combination that had Brilz ducking for a shot. Marshall retreats out of range and the fighters reset in the center of the Octagon. Brilz finally shoots but Marshall defends. Brilz shoots under another jab from Marshall but he is again denied. Marshall throws a weak head kick and Brilz rushes forward, pinning him against the cage at the horn.
Round 2
Marshall is showing off some impressive takedown defense again in round two. Brilz is in deep on a single but Marshall shows good balance and patience as he fights his way free of Brilz. The big Nebraskan pushes Marshall against the cage and works some knees to the thighs but one gets Marshall right in the groin. Replays show the left knee landing square on the cup of Marshall. After a quick respite, the Coloradan is ready to continue. Brilz continues to try to take the fight to the mat but Marshall proves too tough to ground. Marshall lands a nice counter right as Brilz chucks and ducks for another takedown. Brilz lands a couple shots, his first significant ones of the round, at the close of the second.
Round 3
Brilz just can’t get Marshall to the mat. He pushes his way into a clinch and tries to drop for the takedown but is stuff yet again. Brilz pushes Marshall against the cage but little action ensues. Brilz winging big rights now as the desperation sets in. He needs a finish and is fighting like he knows it. Brilz shoots again but is denied again. Marshall grabs double unders along the cage and slips away from Brilz. Another weak shot is defended and Marshall lands a two piece combo on an advancing Brilz. Brilz slugs away at the 10-second warning but it is too little too late.
Eliot Marshall defeats Jason Brilz via split decision (30-27, 30-27, 28-30)