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Jack Hermansson returned to the middleweight win column earlier tonight (Sat., July 18, 2020) at UFC Fight Island 2 live on ESPN+ from inside Flash Forum on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, as “The Joker” made quick work of former title challenger Kelvin Gastelum with a first-round submission finish (heel hook).
Gastelum had to close the gap on the feet early and did just that. He ended up landing a few good shots inside which forced Hermansson to shoot for a takedown. Gastelum reversed and ended up on top, but “The Joker” grabbed a hold of his leg as he returned to his feet. Gastelum didn’t really get around to defending it before it was too late. Hermansson had the heel hook locked in and a tap was imminent.
Check out the highlights above courtesy of UFC/ESPN.
With this performance, Hermansson recovers after getting knocked out by Jared Cannonier this past September. Despite that loss, which did cost Hermansson a little momentum atop the division, “The Joker” is still 5-1 since the start of 2018 and has held his own against the best in the weight class. This win should go a long way in setting the veteran up for a top 5 opponent his next time out, which could lead him right to a title fight in 2021.
For complete UFC Fight Island 2 results and coverage click here.