Lupita Godinez had proved herself to be a little “Loopy” by taking fights just seven days apart last month. Now, just a month later, Godinez was back in action at UFC Vegas 43 against Loma Lookboonmee. Setting another record in the process.
When she stepped into the octagon Saturday, Godinez broke Dustin Prague’s record of competing three times in 64 days — taking her third fight in just 42 days. Leaving her time for one more this year if she hurried (we kid).
Early on, Lookboonmee and Godinez had a bit of a back-and-forth in the grappling department, just briefly hitting the canvas. On the feet, unsurprisingly, the Thai fighter utilized a Muay Thai stance. Godinez then opted to drive her opponent into the fence, looking to change levels for a takedown. She’d work for a trip, then a single leg, but Lookboonmee showed some impressive takedown defense before reversing and landing knees in the clinch.
Countered the counter.
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In the final minute of the opening round, the pair moved off the fence, with Lookboonmee connecting with a head kick that was partially blocked. It was Godinez, however, who landed one of the better strikes of the round with a right cross connecting, followed shortly after with a takedown, letting her finish in control.
An early takedown put Godinez in the driver’s seat in round two. She landed in half-guard with side control an easy option, which she would take moments later. Godinez then put her knee across Lookboonmee’s neck, pinning her while landing punches until the Thai strawweight escaped out and up.
Back on the feet, Godinez maintained control care of a body lock, which Lookboonmee walking her to the fence. Lupita refused to give up control until Lookboonmee caught her getting too high on the back and, while standing, shook her off and over the top. Moments later, however, Lupita would put her opponent on her back again, giving her well over a minute to work on top.
Round three opened with a takedown by “Loopy” Godinez, and it finished with one. Off the original takedown, Godinez went hunting for a leg lock, and it took Lookboonmee a good long while to escape. When she finally did break free and managed to get back on her feet, a blast double leg put her right back down. Godinez transitioned to the back, but was too high. That was irrelevant, as even with Lookboonmee escaping, there wasn’t enough time for her to turn the tide.
Official Result: Lupita Godinez def. Loma Lookboonmee by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27 30-27)
