Both Stephanie Egger and Shanna Young had dropped their octagon debuts last year — making UFC Vegas 38 an opportunity for redemption.
The pair faced off early on the preliminary card on Saturday in Las Vegas, and while the relative shallowness of the women’s 135lb division made job security a little less dire for the loser, there was still plenty of motivation avoid an 0-2 start to their UFC careers.
Young went after a high kick early in the opening round, but it was Egger who seemed to find her stride first. She fired off a 1-2 with some success, but also took a warning from the ref for having her fingers extended. As the action continued, Young also found her rhythm, holding center and taking the fight to her opponent.
A clinch near the midway mark of the round saw Egger land a takedown off a throw. She got on top, but Young wound up attacking a heel hook. She held onto the submission for a good chunk of time, but Egger managed to sit up and keep herself out of danger. With Young focused on the submission, Egger was also able to score a considerable amount of ground n’ pound.
Young bullied Egger up against the fence in the opening minute of round two. Egger, however, used overhooks to tie up Young, then landed a smooth trip takedown. From there, Egger landed a nasty elbow, which had Young cover up. The ref didn’t like what he was seeing in terms of intelligent defense, and opted to call the fight there.
The GnP from Stephanie Egger seals the victory.
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Some might question the stoppage, but Young clearly didn’t like that elbow, and there was no protest when the ref waved things off. For Switzerland’s Stephanie Egger, she now has her first UFC victory.
Official Result: Stephanie Egger def. Shanna Young by TKO, Round 2, 2:22
