The biggest gap in octagon experience in UFC history is what Nikolas Motta faced when he squared off against Jim Miller at UFC Vegas 48.
Miller, the UFC record holder for most fights, entered the octagon for the thirty-ninth time on Saturday. Contender Series winner Motta was making his debut.
Last time out, Miller had got the job done with his hands, knocking out Erick Gonzalez. His hands were there for him again Saturday against Motta.
The pair circled early, with Motta throwing a few low kicks. Miller went hunting for his first significant takedown attempt just prior to the midway mark, but Motta easily escaped. He continued to attack Miller’s lead leg, firing short combos, resetting, then attacking the leg again. For the most part, it was a successful round for the newcomer, who held his own against the vet.
Round two was a different story. Miller opened the second firing some leg kicks of his own. His left hand would follow that kick, causing problems from the Brazilian newcomer. Motta was on the outside, Miller hunting him. However, Miller would soon connect with a right hook that dropped Motta in a heartbeat! Miller swarmed, adding lefts and rights while Motta covered up. The ref took a good look, but let it continue, even as Motta failed to really respond or defend intelligently. Eventually, it was waved off — and Miller himself noted the late stoppage in his post-fight interview.
JIM MILLER IN HIS 39TH FIGHT!! 😱
WHAT a performance from @JimMiller_155! #UFCVegas48 pic.twitter.com/7n1yxUfQ0J
— UFC Canada (@UFC_CA) February 20, 2022
After the fight, Miller said that while there’s still time on the clock, he intends to keep going. “My goal has just been to fight as hard as I can fight, for as long as I can.” With the win, he secures the record for all-time wins in the UFC at 23, tied with Cowboy Cerrone.
Official Result: Jim Miller def. Nikolas Motta by TKO (punches), Round 2, 1:58
