Bantamweights Ricky Simon and Javid Basharat faced off at UFC Seattle at the Climate Pledge Arena on Saturday, with Basharat looking to bounce back from the first loss of his professional career.
After dropping a decision against the surging Aiemann Zahabi, Basharat had been handed another tough out in Simon, whose resume boasted wins over names like Merab Dvalishvili and Raphael Assuncao. Having also shared the cage with Urijah Faber, Rob Font, and Song Yadong, Simon was not short on high-level experience.
A former high school state wrestling champion in Washington, Simon was fighting in his home state. One minute into the opening round Simon secured a bodylock and dragged Basharat to the canvas. Basharat scrambled to his feet, but was again met by a takedown attempt by Simon who pushed him into the cage. Circling away to the center of the cage, Basharat tried to find a home for his jab at distance but Simon crashed forward again with another attempted takedown. A good knee to body by Basharat seemed to be his best shot of the fight, then out of nowhere Ricky Simon landed a picture perfect right hand that shut his opponents lights out.
A sensational stoppage win for Simon in front of his friends and family in attendance. Simon reminded everyone how dangerous he is with this performance. Not only is Simon a talented wrestler but it seems the American Top Team Portland product has been working on his hands as well. Simon stated that he may have been on a losing streak but he was fighting some of the best in the world.
The former top 15 fighter may find an opponent with a ranking next to their name after this incredible knockout win.
Official Result: Ricky Simon def. Javid Basharat by KO (punch), Round 1, 3:58
