Even though Ronaldo Souza was flirting with a Middleweight title shot, “Jacare” agreed to fight Tim Boetsch — who most recently upset Rafael Natal with a knockout punch — and throw caution to the wind at UFC 208 tonight (Feb. 11, 2017) inside Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
He apparently knew what he was doing, repeatedly taking down Boetsch and ultimately submitting him late in the first round with a shoulder-shredding kimura.
Jacare pushed the pace early as Boetsch circled in either direction to keep a healthy distance. The Brazilian shot for a takedown early, but Boetsch was able to defend and eventually break free. Boetsch landed a pair of low kicks as Jacare countered with a straight right hand. Boetsch returned fire, stinging Jacare, who seconds later dove in for a takedown and began to put in work from side control with more than two minutes remaining in the opening round. It wasn’t long before Jacare was able to maneuver into full mount and then, as Boetsch scrambled to get back to his feet, catch his left arm and twist it behind his back. Boetsch tried to escape, but Jacare cranked the kimura until Boetsch had no choice but to tap or kiss the tendons in his shoulder goodbye.
Wow. That was just technical brilliance on the part of Jacare. It was a mismatch when it was announced, but kudos to Jacare for eliminating the one chance Boetsch had to win the bout and then getting the fight on his terms and ending it as he should.
No more filler fights — it’s time Jacare competes for a UFC world title.
For complete results from UFC 208: “Holm vs. de Randamie,” including play-by-play updates, click here and here.