One of the more intriguing stylistic matchups on the UFC 327 prelims set up ranked lightweight contender Mateusz Gamrot against surging finisher Esteban Ribovics in a classic clash of elite grappling versus explosive striking on Saturday night.
Gamrot (25-4) entered the fight coming off a loss to Charles Oliveira last October. The former KSW champion and #8 lightweight has previously been on the cusp of a title shot, but now looks to rebuild his momentum, starting with Ribovics.
Ribovics (15-2) has quickly emerged as a fan favorite, thanks to all-action fights like his war with Daniel Zellhuber at UFC 306. While he’s undeniably dangerous, he can be hittable and more importantly, his takedown defense remains a question mark against elite wrestlers.
Round 1 – Ribovics came out aggressively, as is his style, throwing with power early. Gamrot didn’t rush to grapple right away, instead firing back with a sharp, improved jab. When Ribovics threw a leg kick, Gamrot caught it clean and turned it into a takedown.
Gamrot quickly advanced to side control, while Ribovics used an overhook to try and control Gamrot’s right arm. Ribovics worked hard to get back to his feet, but Gamrot stayed one step ahead, smoothly adjusting his position to maintain control.
Ribovics made his way to the fence in an attempt to stand, but Gamrot was relentless, keeping him pinned and neutralizing the escape.
Ribovics continued to look for a way out, but Gamrot remained composed on top, controlling the action until the end of the round.
Round 2 – Ribovics’ corner urged him to stop throwing kicks to avoid giving Gamrot easy takedowns, but he came out and immediately fired off three straight kicks.
Gamrot shot for a single leg, and Ribovics nearly went airborne to avoid it—and did. However, after overextending on a right hand, Ribovics was taken down again. With his back against the fence, he used it to stand, but couldn’t shake Gamrot’s control.
No matter what position Ribovics worked toward, Gamrot stayed one step ahead—light, composed, and dominant throughout the exchanges. After mixing in elbows, Gamrot locked up a head-and-arm choke and secured the finish.
Gamrot took the mic and called out Diego Lopes.
Official Result: Mateusz Gamrot def. Esteban Ribovics via R2 SUB (Arm Triangle), 4:19
