Middleweights Brunno Ferreira and Armen Petrosyan were both looking to get back in the winner’s circle at UFC 313 on Saturday.
Part of the preliminary card in Las Vegas, Ferreira was coming off a loss to Abus Magomedov, while Petrosyan had been the victim of a highlight reel, never-before-seen double spinning back fist by Shara Magomedov.
Petrosyan is a very talented striker whose technique and cardio have propelled him to his success inside the cage. His opponent Bruno Ferreira is an aggressive finisher with all 12 of his professional wins coming inside the distance.
Both fighters started out cautiously, with Petrosyan claiming the center of the cage. The Armenian landed a kick to the body, but was countered with a huge left hook by Ferreira. Petrosyan retreated as he was hit clean and staggered backward. Moments after, Petrosyan landed a low blow that forced a stop to the action. After resuming, Petrosyan again fouled with a low kick that landed on the cup of Ferreira. Referee Mark Smith decided the foul was bad enough to take away a point from Armen. When the round continued Ferreira landed a big right hand as Petrosyan came forward. Petrosyan tried to regain composure, landing a jab and low kick to the calf of Ferreira.
Ferreira attempted a takedown and momentarily landed a trip, before Petrosyan returned to his feet. The first five minutes were highly competitive, but with Petrosyan losing a point he may have given up a 10-8 round.
In round two, Ferreira came forward while Petrosyan landed a few leg kicks early. Petrosyan controlled the distance landing a few good jabs while getting out of the way of massive overhand punches from the Brazilian contender. Ferreira attempted a takedown but was unable to secure it.
The volume of Petrosyan seemed to be adding up in the second round as Ferreira was slowing down. Ferreira then crashed forward tackling Petrosyan to the ground, landing quality punches then securing back control. Petrosyan turned to stand, but was caught with an armbar in the transition forcing him to tap. Ferreira dug deep overcome multiple fouls and a five inch height disadvantage to pick up one of the biggest wins in his career by stoppage.
An incredible victory by Bruno Ferreira improved his record to 13-2, while showing is multifaceted skillset picking up the submission win. This was the fourth submission win in Ferreira’s career, telling Joe Rogan “I have the complete arsenal” while hoping for a Performance of the Night bonus.
Official Result: Brunno Ferreira def. Armen Petrosyan by submission (armbar), Round 2, 4:27
