Yair Rodriguez delivered a strong welcome to Patricio Pitbull in their UFC 314 matchup, earning a clear unanimous decision victory.
Throughout the fight, Rodriguez displayed superior striking skills against Pitbull, culminating in a late knockdown that almost ended the fight. Despite Pitbull`s resilience, he was unable to inflict significant damage, as Rodriguez maintained control from the opening bell to the final seconds.
The judges` scorecards reflected Rodriguez`s dominance, with all three scoring the fight 30-27 in his favor. This win marks Rodriguez`s return to the win column after suffering two consecutive losses.
“I knew he would be a tough opponent,” Rodriguez stated post-fight. “I aimed for a first-round finish and had a strategy prepared, but he was ready. Respect to Patricio Pitbull for competing in the UFC. Let`s bring a title fight to Mexico, in Guadalajara this September, I want to compete for the title there.”
Leveraging his reach advantage, Rodriguez effectively struck from a distance, while Pitbull initially appeared hesitant. Pitbull is known for his slow starts, and Rodriguez capitalized on this, carefully selecting his strikes while remaining cautious of Pitbull`s power.
A head kick from Rodriguez landed cleanly on Pitbull, who responded with a smile, inviting further engagement. Pitbull managed to secure a late takedown in the first round, but time expired before he could capitalize.
Pitbull showed more aggression in the second round, landing a solid left hand that caught Rodriguez`s attention. However, Rodriguez remained composed, continuing to utilize a diverse striking game, keeping Pitbull at bay.
In the final round, with Pitbull needing a finish, Rodriguez maintained his focus on kicks and showed no signs of intimidation. Pitbull`s increased aggression backfired when Rodriguez connected with a powerful punch, sending the former Bellator champion to the canvas.
Rodriguez followed up with ground strikes, including punches and elbows, as Pitbull fought to survive. Pitbull attempted an armbar from bottom position, but Rodriguez successfully defended and escaped.
Rodriguez continued to land strikes until the final bell, securing a dominant victory against a fighter considered one of Bellator`s greatest.
With this victory, Rodriguez hopes to secure a title shot when the UFC returns to Mexico in September, although several factors need to align given his mixed record in recent fights.
