UFC featherweight Joanderson Brito aimed to right the ship coming off a controversial loss his last time out, but he would have to face Pat Sabatini at UFC Vegas 105 on Saturday night to do it.
Brito (17-4-1) lost a very close split-decision to William Gomis last September in France. The Chute Box product was adamant that he did not lose that fight and that everybody knew it. The up-and-coming 145er holds victories over Jack Shore, Jonathan Pearce, Westin Wilson and Andre Fili to name a few. He hoped to add Sabatini to his resume at the APEX.
Sabatini (19-5) last fought in October scoring a submission victory over Pearce at the APEX. He did not take his foot off the gas after the win taking part in two grappling bouts for Fury Pro Grappling taking home wins over Herbert Burns and Peter Fazekas. The 34-year-old said his journey in the UFC isn’t done yet, and he would go for a win over Brito on Saturday.
Round one started out in favor of Sabatini, who landed a takedown in the opening fifteen seconds. Sabatini worked to half guard, while Brito threatened a guillotine from the bottom. Sabatini escaped the choke and moments later Brito returned to his feet. Against the fence Sabatini put Brito to the mat for a second time with a trip takedown. An impressive top game for Sabatini scored him a possible 10-8 round in the opening frame, as he landed a few thunderous hammer fist’s as the bell sounded.
In the second, Sabatini came out and implored his game plan again getting Brito to the mat in the opening minute. The takedown defense of Brito was not what we had seen in previous contest’s as Sabatini completely controlled this fight through the first seven minutes. Sabatini landed a few good shots while staying on top in the half guard position. A heavy top game from Sabatini was on full display again, as Brito had landed little to no offense through two rounds. This fight easily could have been scored 10-8 in back to back rounds.
In the final five minutes Brito marched forward throwing a kick to the body and a right hand behind it. Sabatini weathered the storm and again landed a takedown as Brito attempted another guillotine that was no where close to threatening. Smothering Brito on top, Sabatini was putting together one of the best performances of his UFC career. Sabatini worked to the back of Brito chasing a submission with a minute left in the round. Almost locking in the submission near the bell, Sabatini had more then thirteen minutes of control time in the fifteen minute contest. Brito was able to survive but the judges all scored the fight in favor of Sabatini (30-26, 30-26, 30-27).
Putting together back-to-back wins Sabatini may find himself across from ranked opposition in his next fight. With this victory Sabatini earned his 20th professional win.
Official Result: Pat Sabatini def. Joanderson Brito by unanimous decision (30-26, 30-26, 30-27)
