UFC Fight Night Rio: Demian Maia Defeats Ryan LaFlare By Unanimous Decision

What could have been a star-making turn for Long Island, N.Y., welterweight Ryan LaFlare on Saturday night instead turned into a reminder why Demian Maia is one of the top groundfighters in the sport, as the Brazilian contender put together a Jiu-Jitsu clinic in winning a five-round unanimous decision in the UFC Fight Night main event at Ginasio do Maracanazinho in Rio de Janeiro.

Scores were 48-46 across the board for the number seven-ranked Maia.

After some tense stand-up to begin, Maia hit a takedown in the second minute, working hard to improve his position from the time the bout hit the canvas. LaFlare’s defense was solid, but Maia was able to secure the mount. Fortunately for the New Yorker, Maia wasn’t able to get him into any further trouble, even if he did remain in control for the remainder of the round.

With the win, Sao Paulo’s Maia improves to 20-6; LaFlare falls to 11-1.