The Dubliner took victory after a cagey battle with his Russian opponent in Stockholm.
The split decision win (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) was the sign of a close match as both fighters struggled to gain the upper hand.
Umalatov had the better of the early exchanges and had Pendred on his back in the second round with a stinging hook, but was not able to keep up the pace as Pendred forced his opponent to defend.
Ultimately, Pendred’s staying power saw him get the nod from two of the three cageside judges and he remains unbeaten in the UFC.
“It wasn’t the fight I really wanted to be honest,” Pendred said afterwards.
“I felt like he was more of a counter guy and that I had to push the pace the whole time. I just tried to push as much as I could without going into his game. I think I did the best I could.”
(Image: Josh Hedges)
