UFC Vegas 113 Recap: Mario Bautista Grabs Big Win with Finish Over Andre Fili

In a thrilling bout at UFC Vegas 113, Mario Bautista defeated Andre Fili via rear-naked choke in the third round. The stakes were significant, as both fighters aimed to solidify their standings in the featherweight division, with Bautista rising up the ranks while Fili sought to regain momentum after a recent loss.

How the Fight Played Out

From the opening bell, both fighters exhibited sharp striking skills and tactical prowess. Bautista began on the front foot, utilizing quick jabs and low kicks to disrupt Fili’s timing. However, Fili countered with powerful combinations and effective lateral movement, creating moments of uncertainty for Bautista.

Key moments in the first two rounds showcased Bautista’s wrestling as he sought to close the distance. A pivotal moment occurred in the second round when Bautista successfully secured a takedown, which shifted the momentum in his favor. On the ground, he controlled Fili, landing effective ground-and-pound that not only scored points but also showed his grappling superiority.

The back-and-forth exchanges kept the audience on the edge of their seats. Each fighter displayed their striking capabilities, but Bautista appeared to maintain a slight edge with his pressure and volume, landing more significant strikes.

Turning Points

The fight took a decisive turn in the third round when Bautista secured a takedown early. Once on the ground, Bautista was relentless. He methodically worked his way to Fili’s back, demonstrating exceptional grappling skills. After making some adjustments to avoid Fili’s grasping hands, Bautista locked in a rear-naked choke, forcing Fili to tap out at the 3:17 mark of the round.

The strategic shift to ground control was a clear turning point, showcasing Bautista’s ability to adapt and capitalize on openings. Fili’s corner decision to allow him to continue fighting after the second round was crucial, yet it ultimately led to his defeat once Bautista executed his game plan perfectly.

Fighter Performances

Mario Bautista exhibited a well-rounded performance that showcased his striking, wrestling, and submission skills. His ability to pressure and his striking accuracy were on display, but it was his grappling acumen that truly made the difference. Bautista’s endurance and fight IQ allowed him to adapt his strategy as the fight progressed.

Andre Fili, despite losing, displayed flashes of his striking power and resilience. His ability to counter and move effectively highlighted his experience in the octagon. However, he struggled to defend against Bautista’s relentless ground game, which ultimately led to his downfall in this bout.

Both fighters demonstrated heart and determination, but it was Bautista who executed his plan more effectively, leading to his victory and improved standing in the division.

Division Context

Following this victory, Bautista is expected to make a significant leap in the featherweight rankings. His performance at UFC Vegas 113 not only displayed his potential but also set the stage for future bouts against higher-ranked opponents. Meanwhile, Fili, despite the defeat, remains a respected member of the division. The fight’s outcome caused some ripple effects—Bautista’s name is now in the mix as a potential contender for title shots down the line, especially with the current landscape of the division following recent results.

What Comes Next

While there are currently no official announcements regarding Bautista’s next fight, his victory certainly makes a strong case for a matchup against a top-ten opponent. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the UFC’s decision-makers to match him up accordingly. For Fili, a chance at redemption is essential; he may look to face an opponent at a similar ranking to re-establish himself after this loss.

The victory for Bautista places him in a prime position to climb higher in the featherweight rankings, making the division even more competitive.

As fans dissect the event, a lingering question remains:

What potential opponents do you see for Mario Bautista in his next fight?