UFC 292 saw Mario Bautista emerge victorious with a hard-fought unanimous decision win over Da’Mon Blackshear after a challenging back-and-forth battle. Originally slated to face former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt, who was sidelined due to injury, Bautista had to contend with the resilient grappler Blackshear, who accepted the fight on short notice following his submission victory just a week prior. Despite Blackshear’s gritty performance, Bautista’s consistent pressure and superior grappling in the later rounds secured him the win. The judges scored the contest 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27 in Bautista’s favor.
Despite Blackshear’s recent Twister submission win, he wasted no time in utilizing his grappling skills to pursue takedowns against Bautista in the opening round. While Blackshear managed to bring Bautista down, the latter swiftly regained his footing and repositioned himself in the center of the cage.
Blackhear’s unrelenting wrestling persisted, even when Bautista briefly attempted a guillotine choke as they went to the ground. Blackshear demonstrated patience in escaping the submission attempt, leading to a return to striking where both fighters landed effective shots.
As the match progressed, Bautista gained momentum by becoming the aggressor, forcing Blackshear to react to his offensive onslaught rather than countering. Blackshear’s movements slowed, making his attacks more predictable, while Bautista continued to diversify his offensive strategies.
In the third round’s midway point, Bautista managed to secure a body lock, taking Blackshear down to the mat as he sought to showcase his grappling prowess. While delivering punches and advancing his position, Bautista controlled Blackshear, who struggled to break free until the final bell rang.
Bautista’s dominance was particularly evident in the second and third rounds, securing him the victory despite Blackshear’s formidable performance throughout the full 15 minutes. This win marks Bautista’s fifth consecutive triumph, propelling him into consideration for higher-ranked opponents in the bantamweight division at 135 pounds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Gritty Battle
What were the results of UFC 292?
Mario Bautista secured a hard-fought unanimous decision win over Da’Mon Blackshear in a back-and-forth battle.
Who was Mario Bautista originally supposed to fight?
Mario Bautista was initially preparing to face ex-bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt, who was unable to compete due to injury.
Who stepped in as a replacement opponent for Mario Bautista?
Late replacement opponent Da’Mon Blackshear filled in to face Mario Bautista on short notice after winning via submission just seven days earlier.
How did Mario Bautista secure his victory?
Despite a tough challenge from Da’Mon Blackshear, Mario Bautista’s pressure and late grappling dominance led him to win the unanimous decision, with judges scoring the fight 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27 in his favor.
What strategy did Blackshear employ in the fight?
Da’Mon Blackshear, known for his grappling skills, attempted takedowns and ground control against Bautista throughout the match.
How did Bautista’s approach change during the fight?
Mario Bautista shifted his strategy from being a counter fighter to aggressively pressuring Blackshear, which helped him gain momentum and control the latter rounds.
What significance does this victory hold for Mario Bautista?
This win marked Mario Bautista’s fifth consecutive triumph, positioning him for potential matchups against ranked opponents in the bantamweight division.
Which rounds did Bautista perform particularly well in?
Bautista displayed dominance in the second and third rounds, allowing him to secure the victory over Blackshear.
What was Blackshear’s recent accomplishment before this fight?
Da’Mon Blackshear had secured a rare Twister submission win just one week prior to his bout with Mario Bautista.
What styles of fighting were showcased in the match?
The fight featured a blend of striking, grappling, and ground control as both fighters demonstrated their versatility and skills.
More about Gritty Battle
- UFC 292 Official Results
- Mario Bautista UFC Profile
- Da’Mon Blackshear UFC Profile
- Cody Garbrandt UFC Profile
- Twister Submission in MMA