Marlon Moraes may have earned himself a UFC title shot in Utica.
It took Marlon Moraes (21-5-1, 3-1 UFC) just 33-seconds to bring Jimmie Rivera's (21-2, 5-1 UFC) impressive win-streak to an end.
Rivera entered into UFC Utica's main event off the back of a 20-fight win streak. His only defeat prior to taking on Moraes was a split decision loss in his sophomore professional bout. He suffered that loss to Jason McLean nearly 10 years ago, in November 2008.
Moraes made it a more modest three consecutive wins on Saturday. The former WSOF champion caught Rivera with a perfectly-placed switch kick on the temple. Rivera's eyes immediately sunk back into his head as Moraes followed him to the ground. The Brazillian landed several right hands until referee Dan Miragliotta had seen enough. He was awarded the TKO victory at the 0:33 mark of the opening round.
https://twitter.com/UFCONFOX/status/1002777691114725376
That win was Moraes' 16th in 17 fights. His solitary loss in the UFC came via split decision to top contender Raphael Assuncao in his promotional debut. He bounced back from that with a split decision victory over John Dodson and devastating knee knockout of Aljimain Sterling. In his Octagon interview with Jon Anik, Moraes called for a title shot.
“I’m very happy with this moment. I work every area. I’m a mixed martial artist. If you think I’m going to kick you, I’m going to take you down. If you think I’m going to take you down, I’m going to knock you out. I’m ready – I want the title. I want to fight for the UFC bantamweight title. That’s it.”
The next UFC bantamweight title fight is scheduled for UFC 227 on Agust 4. Champion TJ Dillashaw will rematch Cody Garbrandt. Moraes will surely be keeping one eye on that fight.
