Second fight in on an abbreviated UFC Vegas 39 card on Saturday featured a pair of women’s strawweights, one making her promotional debut.
Silvana Gomez Juarez had been expected to appear on Dana White’s Contender Series later this month. Instead, she was stepping in to replace Sam Hughes against Lupita Godinez. The switch-up vastly changed the complexion of the fight; Hughes and Godinez had fought twice during their amateur run. Juarez, competing nearly a decade, was 36 and faced with a “now or never” situation in regards to a UFC run.
Godinez got started right away landing a right hand, backing Juarez up against the cage. Godinez landed another right hand and changed levels taking Juarez down. Juarez got back to her feet but still had to contend with Godinez on her back. Godinez kept pulling Juarez down and getting close to taking the back. Godinez eventually separated bit, and landed a knee on her way out. She shot in for another takedown that was telegraphed but Juarez couldn’t get her leg away and was taken down. This time Godinez got the back away from the cage with both hooks in. Juarez attempted to turn towards her but Godinez switched to an armbar. She went belly down and Juarez tapped.
First UFC victory, & first career submission all in one for @LoopyGodinez 🇲🇽 🇨🇦
[ #UFCVegas39 | Prelims LIVE on @ESPNPlus ] pic.twitter.com/4iD6ito1Dw
— UFC (@ufc) October 9, 2021
Official Result: Lupita Godinez def. Silvana Gomez Juarez by Submission (armbar), Round 1, 4:14
