Last night (Sun., Feb. 21, 2016), Cody Garbrandt and Augusto Mendes squared off at UFC Fight Night 83 inside Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In a stellar performance, Garbrandt knocked his opponent out. FOR VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS OF LAST NIGHT’S FINISH CLICK HERE.
Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Bantamweight prospects Cody Garbrandt and Augusto Mendes battled in a catchweight bout last night (Feb. 21, 2016) at UFC Fight Night 83 inside Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
It’s been a strange week for “No Love.” After preparing to scrap with a heavy-handed brawler, he instead found himself inside the Octagon with one of the finest jiu-jitsu fighters in the sport.
Of course, “Tanquinho” likely had an equally interesting week, as he went from not being booked at all to fighting just six days later. Regardless of the short-notice and weight cut mishap, Mendes had a chance to really make a name for himself in this bout.
Garbrandt started the fight quickly, scoring with some kicks and quick punches. A couple minutes into the bout, Garbrandt scored with a big punch that dropped “Tanquinho,” who attempted to transition into an omoplata.
“No Love” wisely backed away and the fighters returned to their feet.
After a few more small exchanges, Garbrandt struck violently. Mendes looked like he wanted to throw a low kick and hesitated, allowing his opponent to spring into a combinations of quick, powerful punches. The first right hand missed, but Garbrandt’s next two punches connected clean and sent his opponent falling senseless to the mat.
Referee Mario Yamasaki did his best to interrupt by half stopping the fight and getting in the way, but nonetheless the fight was over moments later.
This is the best Garbrandt could make of this situation. He went from being the lesser known fighter looking to take out a big name to the favorite against a skilled underdog. In that situation, a violent finish is the only way to still look good.
“No Love” made it happen.
While the Team Alpha Male representative’s striking looked fast and dangerous, his defense was equally impressive. For much of the fight, Garbrandt made his opponent miss easily, showing off a strong gauge of distance and some slick head movement.
After this win, there’s no doubt that Garbrandt will get his stand up war with John Lineker.
There’s not much to analyze here for Mendes. He came in on short-notice against a highly talented opponent, and things did not go well for him. That’s to be expected, as a Mendes upset would’ve been rather shocking.
Still, “Tanquinho’s” game plan really didn’t make sense. If there was ever a time to desperately jump at the takedown, it was here. Instead, he decided to largely strike with Garbrandt, and he paid the price.
Regardless, it was a strange situation for Mendes. He deserves another opportunity with a full camp to show his full potential.
Last night, Cody Garbrandt violently finished his opponent in the first round. Is “No Love” a future contender?
For complete UFC Fight Night 83 “Cerrone vs Oliveira” results and play-by-play, click HERE!