Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images
Before Anthony Pettis makes his way to the upcoming UFC 241 pay-per-view (PPV) event to face Nate Diaz on August 17, 2019 in Anaheim, California, let’s take a look back at his Welterweight debut just a few months ago.
After fighting at both Lightweight and Featherweight, Pettis — the former 155-pound champion — made the move up to Welterweight for the first time to face former two-time division title contender, Stephen Thompson, at UFC Fight Night 148 this past March.
As expected, the fight was played out on the feet, as both “Showtime” and “Wonderboy” are known as two of the best strikers in all of mixed marital arts (MMA). After a fairly even round one that saw each have shining moments, round two saw an abrupt end to the bout.
Indeed, out of nowhere, a bloodied up Pettis unleashed a lightning-quick superman punch that knocked Thompson out cold, long before Anthony delivered two more finishing blows on the ground. The victory was a much-needed one for Pettis, who saw his previous bout against Tony Ferguson come to an unsatisfying end after suffering a broken hand.
Now, “Showtime” will look to keep his momentum going as he has a huge challenge ahead of him, getting the distinct pleasure of welcoming back Nate Diaz after the Stockton slugger’s extend hiatus from the fight game. Should he prove victorious, Pettis can skyrocket to the top of a highly-crowded division that has contenders chomping at the bit at a title shot.
For more on the upcoming UFC 241: “Cormier vs Miocic 2” fight card click here.