Two of the top young featherweights in the UFC lived up to that reputation in their three-round war, with “The Ultimate Fighter: Latin America” winner Yair Rodriguez outlasting Charles Rosa and taking a split decision victory.
“I feel so proud because I won my first fight now that I am signed with the UFC,” Rodriguez said. “The most important thing for me was to represent my country and put on a good show. I feel so grateful to God and my family, and I dedicate this fight to all the people fighting against cancer.”
Scores were 29-28 twice and 28-29 for Mexico’s Rodriguez, now 6-1; Rosa falls to 10-2.
Rodriguez came out firing off several flashy kicks that got Rosa’s attention, and after dropping the Boston native to the mat, he flew in for the finish. As they scrambled, Rosa found himself in the top position, but Rodriguez locked in a triangle choke. After a long stretch, Rosa got loose and began firing off strikes before taking his opponent’s back. With a minute left, the two rose, but Rosa threw Rodriguez right back to the mat, and the two traded strikes and positions in some wild scrambles that thrilled the crowd.
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