Undefeated Japanese flyweight Tatsuro Taira looked to continue his winning ways against Carlos Hernandez at UFC Vegas 83 on Saturday, the penultimate event of the UFC’s 2023 schedule.
The fight began with Hernandez looking to feint his way into range whilst trying to control the cage with his pressure. Taira looked to land a front kick up the middle bit slipped on his standing leg which led to Hernandez following him to the ground. Taira momentarily reversed the position and looked to gain top control, but Hernandez did well to get to his feet and secure a dominant position in the clinch. Despite Hernandez having secured double under-hooks, Taira somehow secured a takedown and landed directly in half guard. From there the 23-year-old began working on his submission attempts whilst trying to improve his position. After trying to isolate the arm of Carlos Hernandez, full mount presented itself to him, and he took it in a flash.
Hernandez seemingly looked like he was going to give up his back as Taira reigned down some ground-and-pound. The 30-year-old rolled over halfway, but it wasn’t enough to prevent the hammer fists of the surging Japanese flyweight. Taira remained patient as he continued to look for a submission, but in the meantime, he carried on reigning down heavy ground strikes. Fortunately for Hernandez, the horn sounded and spared him from any more damage in round one.
At the start of round two, Hernandez had to try and re-earn some respect from Taira, but in the opening moments, Taira flashed a huge right hand that wobbled Hernandez. Taira followed up with a beautiful combination of strikes that put Hernandez on his back. The undefeated flyweight followed him down to the ground and threw some more heavy ground-and-pound before Mark Smith stepped in and called it there.
This marked Tatsuro Taira’s first KO win in the UFC, adding another feather to his cap. After his impressive victory, Taira called for a fight with Muhammad Mokaev.
Official Result: Tatsuro Taira def. Carlos Hernandez by TKO, Round 2, 0:55
