LAS VEGAS — Like big brother, like little brother.
Sergio Pettis, the 20-year-old sibling of UFC lightweight champion Anthony Pettis, made his UFC debut amid great fanfare on Saturday.
And while he still looks like a work in progress, Pettis showed flashes of potential. Pets beat late replacement Will Campuzano via unanimous decision in a bantamweight bout at UFC 167.
The judges’ scores at the MGM Grand Garden Arena were 30-27, 30-27, and 29-28.
The first round was a blur of action. Campuzano got off to a fast start and scored multiple takedowns. Once Pettis settled down, though, he took control of the round, showing the range kicks and a stiff jab.
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In round two, Pettis showed he had his brother’s pluckiness in submission work, too, as he worked armbars and chokes on the ground. By round’s end, Campuzano had tired, and he sat down in Pettis’ corner after the round ended and had to be redirected by referee Herb Dean.
Still, though, Camupzano was game in round three. Campuzano (13-5) scored an early takedown and the two traded submission attempts. Pettis had more gas in the final minute after they got back to their feet., scoring a takedown in the final seconds.
Pettis improved to 10-0 on his career; Campuzano had a five-fight win streak snapped.