Jimmy Crute’s professional MMA career was going pretty well ahead of UFC Vancouver. The 23-year-old Australian was undefeated at 10-0, including a 2-0 run in the promotion following his victory on the Dana White Contender Series in 2018. His two victories in the promotion have both been finishes, coming against the likes of Paul Craig and Sam Alvey. He faced another UFC veteran on Saturday, taking on Misha Cirkunov.
Once nearing the light heavyweight title picture, Cirkunov has struggled of late. Winning once in his last four fights, the 32-year-old is on an uphill climb to get back into title contention. His last five fights have all ended in the first round, with Cirkunov recording two submission victories, while getting KO’d or TKO’d in each of the three losses. Most recently, Cirkunov was defeated by high-profile prospect Johnny Walker via flying knee at UFC 235.
Round 1: Cirkunov opened with a head kick that was blocked by Crute. Cirkunov landed the following takedown attempt and he quickly moved to half guard, then side control. Crute tried to defend and as Cirkunov worked into a crucifix position and was able to get him back into half guard. Cirkunov didn’t give up and worked back into the crucifix and then moved to mount but Crute exploded and got to his feet where they exchanged briefly before Cirkunov attempted another takedown but Crute ended up on Cirkunov’s back. Crute landed some big shots from the back of Cirkunov then got on top and landed more shots. It looked like it might have been close to ended but Cirkunov reversed things, got hold of Crute’s neck, rolled and locked in the Peruvian Necktie for the quick tap.
From the brink of defeat, @MishaC911 reverses position, and gets the submission win! Wow! #UFCVancouver pic.twitter.com/wlYZWIEWP2
— UFC (@ufc) September 15, 2019
Winner: Cirkunov def. Crute by Submission Peruvian Neck Tie @ 3:38 round 1
