UFC 285 was an unforgettable night for mixed martial arts fans, as the pay-per-view event featured some of the most exciting fights in recent memory. The main event saw Jon Jones claim the heavyweight title with a first-round submission victory over Ciryl Gane. However, the co-main event lasted considerably longer and provided more back-and-forth action for the audience.
It was the enthralling fight of Valentina Shevchenko against Alexa Grasso for the women’s flyweight title. Going into the fight, most fans considered Shevchenko as the likely fighter to win. However, Grasso showcased an excellent performance as she played her cards and won the fight via submission. The toll of the victory was evident after the fight.
Alexa Grasso brutally submits Valentina Shevchenko
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The victory was a huge upset, and Grasso was understandably emotional as she celebrated her historic achievement. But it was a post-fight photo that really caught the attention of fans. ESPN MMA shared a picture of Shevchenko‘s face just after Grasso let go of the hold, showing a clear mark where Grasso‘s submission hold had cut off the blood supply. The area around her mouth appeared pale, leading fans to marvel at the intensity of the hold and the toughness of both fighters.
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Here is how fans reacted –
One fan commented – “Enough to make a grown man cry”
One fan backed Shevchenko and said – “Valentina will come back stronger after this tough loss”
Another one commented – “My two favorite female fighters, was a great fight”
Another fan talked about Grasso’s dominance and said – “going in to rd3 the odds for shevchenko to win it were -1000 😮”
One fan commented – “Wasn’t even under the chin”
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Another one said – “Look like that one Marvel Character 😭💀”
A fan said – “Val got outstriked by grasso and panicked wrestled”
One fan criticized Shevchenko by saying – “That’s what happens when you come in taking your opponent lightly”
But how exactly did the underdog put an end to a dominant reign?
How did Grasso get the submission?
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From the first moment, the fight between Grasso and Shevchenko was high in action and thrill. Grasso was unexpectedly dominating the striking action. In the fourth round, Shevchenko threw a spinning kick. The kick missed and Grasso got a hold of Shevchenko’s back while she was spinning.
Grasso finally locked in a rear-naked choke that was too much for Shevchenko to handle. The champion had no choice but to tap out, and Grasso became the new women’s flyweight champion. The victory was a huge upset, and Grasso was understandably emotional as she celebrated her historic achievement.
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Overall, UFC 285 was a night to remember for MMA fans, with two thrilling title fights and plenty of excitement throughout the event. What did you make of the post-fight photo? Let us know in the comments below.