BJJ standout Rodolfo Vieira took on Eric McConico at middleweight in the featured preliminary card fight at UFC Vegas 116.
With a treasure chest of gold medals from the jiu-jistu world, Vieira was looking to find consistency in MMA, after falling to Bo Nickal in his last fight. McConico was also coming off a loss, against Baisangur Susurkaev.
Vieira got off to a quick start, swarming Eric McConico with a power takedown that dropped the American into a vulnerable position. It was dangerous waters early for McConico, though the crafty defender was able to return to his feet quickly after. A series of chain takedown attempts ensued as Vieira looked to find the same success as his first shot, though McConico stayed disciplined as the round came to a close.
Round two was much more favorable for Eric McConico. He let his hands go and was beautifully accurate, walking down a tiring Vieira. A big round one from the Brazilian virtually left him with no gas tank midway through the fight, with Vieira finding his only success by holding McConico against the cage. With a few seconds left in the round, McConico exploded out of Vieira’s grasp, landing a couple of strikes to stamp the round in his favor.
Vieira’s game plan didn’t change in round three either, with the Brazilian continuously attempting to slow down McConico with level changes. Again, the American stayed composed and defensively responsible, protecting himself from any major damage before finding his way off the cage and out of Vieira’s range. The tide turned for good once the two found each other at range with a minute left. McConico, in much better physical shape and striking well, sealed the deal on the feet, outstriking Vieira until the fight’s close.
McConico earned the unanimous decision victory as the fight reached the scorecards, finding himself back in the win column and evening his UFC record at 2-2. For Vieira, he’ll be forced to face the tough reality of two consecutive losses, dropping the Brazilian to 11-5.
Official Result: Eric McConico def. Rodolfo Vieira by unanimous decision (29–28, 29–28, 29–28)
