He never landed anything because Sanji saved Zoro's sorry ass.
So yes he was bested. And if it werent for Sanji, Kuma wouldve sent him to hell.
And why was Zoro at his limit ? Because he couldnt do anything to Kuma. He wasted all his energy and gave up to him. He was defeated whether you like to admit it or not. You either win or you lose. Zoro took it upon himself to let Kuma be his opponent and wanted to fight him solo. He lost and begged him to strike a deal.
No no no. Zoro did not save anything. Plot convienience saved the crew. As usual.... Plot let Kuma be a good guy and listen to Zoro's pathetic pleas. If Kuma was a bad guy. He wouldve still killed Zoro and Luffy and give zero fucks. Zoro didnt do much again Zoro survived due to his benelovence and mercy.
Zoro only survived Luffy's pain....which was an impressive endurance feat (kinda). Other than that it was Kuma who let them off the hook and didnt kill them.